Potential of Alkaloids from Zanthoxylum nitidum var. tomentosum in Treating Rat Rheumatoid Arthritis Model and Validation of Molecular Mechanisms.

ABSTRACT: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by synovial hyperplasia and joint destruction. Previous studies have demonstrated that the alkaloids of Rushanhu (ARSHs), the dried root and stem of Zanthoxylum nitidum var. tomentosum, exhibit favorable therapeutic effects on RA, and this study aims to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved. A complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis model in male SD rats (n = 64) was used to evaluate ARSHs. Groups included control, model, methotrexate (MTX), and ARSH-treated. Therapeutic effects were assessed via arthritis index, paw swelling, and serum cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A). Network pharmacology identified bioactive alkaloids and core targets, validated by molecular docking. In vitro mechanis

SUBMITTER: Shen Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12384453 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature