Osteo-F, a Newly Developed Herbal Formula, Ameliorates Osteoarthritis Through the NF-κB/IκB/JNK Pathway Based on Network Pharmacology.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful joint condition primarily caused by cartilage degradation, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Given the side effects of current treatments, this study investigates Osteo-F, a novel herbal-based functional ingredient formulated with Schizandra chinensis, Lycium chinense, and Eucommia ulmoides, traditionally valued for their bioactive and health-promoting properties. Network pharmacology analysis identified significant interactions involving Osteo-F within the TNF signaling pathway, highlighting its role in modulating key inflammatory processes in OA. In vivo experiments using a monosodium iodoacetate-induced OA rat model demonstrated significant improvements in arthritis scores, bone mineral content, and bone mineral density, alongside preservation of cartilage integrity, as confirmed by histological analyses. In vitro studies further revealed that this formulation reduced the activation of JNK and NF-κB pathways, decreasing inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases critical in cartilage breakdown. These findings underscore the potential of Osteo-F as a functional food candidate to reduce inflammation and support cartilage preservation in OA. Future clinical trials are required to validate these findings and explore its dietary integration in OA management.