Suanzaoren decoction demonstrates significant anxiolytic effect and reveals potential therapeutic mechanisms via improved component targeting and application strategies.
Researchers first administered Suanzaoren decoction (SZRD) to a mouse model of anxiety induced by chronic restraint stress. They gauged the efficacy of the treatment through a combination of behavioural indicators and biochemical parameters. Using an investigative strategy based on UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology and network pharmacology, the team then screened and analysed potentially effective components and therapeutic mechanisms in SZRD. For component validation, molecular docking was used. Finally, they constructed a multivariate network to visualize the effects of SZRD on anxiety.
The outcomes showed that SZRD could potentially alleviate anxiety symptoms. This was evident from the increase in the time the mice spent in open areas and the proportion of entries into these open areas, and the improvement of certain neurological parameters within the hippocampus. They also found that SZRD influenced sleep pattern without causing muscle relaxation. Examination of SZRD composition identified 110 components, 20 of which were absorbable into the bloodstream. They also discovered 21 serum biomarkers with SZRD intervention involved in diverse metabolic processes. The study resulted in a multivariate network detailing the most effective components, targets and pathways of SZRD against anxiety.
