Comprehensive analysis based on spatial domains identifies CD44 as a potential target of puerarin.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Melanoma, a highly metastatic and treatment-resistant malignancy, urgently requires novel therapeutic strategies. Puerarin, a natural isoflavone with established anti-tumorigenic effects in diverse cancers, remains underexplored in melanoma despite its potential to modulate melanogenesis and oxidative stress. This study investigates puerarin's spatial targeting mechanisms in melanoma to elucidate its therapeutic specificity.

Methods

A multi-omics approach integrating single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and structure-based docking plus normal-mode analysis was employed. Spatial domain analysis identified puerarin-responsive malignant cell clusters, while molecular docking and protein-ligand simulations prioritized CD44 as a candidate re

SUBMITTER: Xi SY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12712269 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature