Study on the mechanism of Yupingfeng powder in the treatment of immunosuppression based on UPLC.QTOF.MS, network pharmacology and molecular biology verification

Aims: The current study aims to investigate the effect of Yupingfeng (YPF) powder on immunosuppression, and explore the possible mechanisms. Main methods: Firstly, the monomer components of YPF powder were analyzed by UPLC-QTOF-MS combined with UNIFI automatic analysis platform, then the mechanism of YPF on immunosuppressive treatment was investigated using network pharmacological method, and finally the prediction was verified in a Candida albicans (Can)-induced immunosuppressive BALB/c mouse model. Key findings: 98 monomer compounds in YPF were obtained. Through virtual analysis and screening on the oral utilization and drug likeness properties of the components, 47 effective components were got. 9 core targets obtained were enriched in IL-17 signaling pathway. In the mouse model, YPF could reduce the number of Can and alleviate Can-induced inflammation in the kidney effectively, upregulate Can-induced low proportion of CD4(+)/CD8(+) of splenic lymphocytes, and increase Can-induced low activity of IL-17 pathway. Significance: These results demonstrate that YPF could improve the immunity of Can-induced immunosuppression in BALB/c mice through upregulating the activity of IL-17 pathway.

Automated summary

This study investigated the effect of Yupingfeng powder on immunosuppression, identifying 98 monomer compounds and 47 effective components. The powder was found to reduce Candida albicans infection in mice, alleviate inflammation, and improve immune response pathways such as IL-17 signaling.