Exploring the Mechanism of Epimedium on Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head through Network Pharmacology

Abstract BACKGROUND : Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has consistently demonstrated promise in the prevention and management of ONFH. Epimedium, historically revered in Chinese medicinal recipes, has been utilized for mitigating conditions such as osteonecrosis and symptoms of kidney yang deficiency. OBJECTIVE : This study aimed to forecast the drug targets and associated pathways through which Epimedium exerts its therapeutic effects against osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Additionally, we sought to delve deeper into its mechanism at the molecular level. METHODS : In this study, we identified the active constituents and targets of Epimedium using the TCMSP database. The GEO database (with accession number GSE123568) was consulted to pinpoint targets associated with SONFH. Differential gene expression was visually represented through volcano and heat maps, crafted using the R software. GO and KEGG analyzes of these target genes were also subsequently performed using R software. RESULTS : Five pivotal target genes were identified: PTGS2, KCNH2, BCL2L1, ABCG2, and E2F2. An exhaustive topological analysis was performed encompassing eight pathways and three genes. CONCLUSION : This study elucidates the fundamental constituents, specific targets, and molecular pathways that underlie the effectiveness of Epimedium in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head.