The Therapeutic Effects of HexueTongbi to Combat the Oxaliplatin-Induced
Peripheral Neuropathy Using Network Analysis in Rats
Abstract
Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is common
in pateints undergoing chemotherapy. Hexuetongbi (HXTB), a TCM, could
treat CIPN. Objective: This study investigates HXTB in treating CIPN and
the underlying mechanism in an oxaliplatin-induced rat model (model).
Methods: The rat model was developed by intraperitoneal injection of
oxaliplatin for four weeks. The HXTB was investigated on the behavior of
rats. Network analysis, TCMSP, and GeneCards were used to identify CIPN
targets and HXTB therapeutic entities. HXTB and CIPN molecular pathways
were analyzed using GO enrichment and KEGG. H&E staining assessed
dorsal root ganglion neuron morphology. qRT-PCR and Western Blot
evaluated mRNA and protein levels. Results: The model group had
significantly higher frequency of CPWR and lower MWT. HXTB reduced CPWR
and increased MWT. H&E staining demonstrated abnormal neuron
morphology, confirming model development. HXTB neurons remained normal.
Skin, liver, kidney, and heart function were preserved. Network analysis
identified 19 active HXTB constituents and 35 CIPN targets. Among the 35
targets, the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was the main pathway identified.
PI3K, Akt1, Akt2, and Bcl-2 mRNA and protein levels were up-regulated.
Conclusion: HXTB can ameliorate CIPN by regulating the PI3K/Akt and
Bcl-2 pathways to inhibit apoptosis of damaged dorsal ganglion neurons.