Integrating network pharmacology and pharmacological validation to explore the effect of Shi Wei Ru Xiang powder on suppressing hyperuricemia

Shi Wei Ru Xiang powder (SWR) is a traditional Tibetan medicinal formula with the effect of dispelling dampness and dispersing cold. In clinical practice, SWR is generally used for the treatment of hyperuricemia (HUA). However, its exact pharmacological mechanism remains unclear. To preliminarily elucidate the regulatory effects and possible mechanisms of SWR on hyperuricemia using network pharmacology and experimental validation. A mouse model of hyperuricemia was used to evaluate the alleviating effect of SWR on hyperuricemia. The major components of SWR were acquired by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. The potential molecular targets and associated signaling pathways were predicted through network pharmacology. The mechanism of action of SWR in ameliorating hyperuricemia was further investigated by pharmacological evaluation. Mice with hyperuricemia and renal dysfunction were ameliorated by SWR. The 36 components of SWR included phenolic acids, terpenoids, alkaloids and flavonoids were identified. Network pharmacological analysis showed the involvement of the above compounds, and 115 targets were involved to treat hyperuricemia, involving multiple biological processes and different signaling pathways. Pharmacological experiments validated that SWR ameliorated hyperuricemic nephropathy in mice by modulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) signaling pathway and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway. MAPK signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway play important roles in the therapeutic effects of SWR on hyperuricemia. [Display omitted] •1.The role of SWR in ameliorating oxonate-induced hyperuricemia in mice by inhibiting XOD activity and promoting renal excretion of uric acid was first demonstrated.•2.Based on the components of SWR, the key components and potential pathways of Shi Wei Ru Xiang powder were analyzed by network pharmacological analysis for the first time.•3.Based on the results of the network pharmacological analysis, this study demonstrated for the first time that SWR can treat hyperuricemia nephropathy by modulating MAPK signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway.