Lycopene's therapeutic mechanisms in epididymitis: a network pharmacology and experimental study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Epididymitis, a common disease of the male reproductive system, is often caused by nonspecific infections. Antibiotics alone cannot reverse histopathological changes or prevent long-term reproductive issues. Lycopene (LYC), a potent antioxidant, has shown potential in alleviating epididymitis, yet its specific mechanisms remain unclear. This study used network pharmacology and in vivo experiments to explore LYC's mechanisms in treating epididymitis.

Methods

Epididymitis- and LYC-related target proteins were identified from multiple databases and analyzed using the Venny platform. Protein interactions were examined with the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database, and key targets were identified via topological analysis. Gene O

SUBMITTER: Zhan MW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11650350 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature