Abstract
Objective: To investigate the therapeutic effects of Huai'er (Trametes) on psoriasis by identifying specific molecular targets and pathways involved in regulating keratinocyte behavior and immune responses. Methods: Cellular experiments were conducted using human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) keratinocytes to evaluate the effects of Huai'er (Trametes) on cell proliferation, migration, and inflammatory factor expression. Additionally, an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mouse model was established to assess the therapeutic efficacy of Huai'er (Trametes) in vivo. Network pharmacology and transcriptomic analyses were performed to identify potential targets and pathways. Results: Huai'er (Trametes) significantly inhibited HaCaT keratinocyte proliferation and migration in vitro, as evidenced by reduced 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation and wound healing rates. In the IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mouse model, Huai'er (Trametes) treatment reduced erythema, scaling, and dermal infiltration of inflammatory cells, demonstrating its efficacy in alleviating psoriasis symptoms. Network pharmacology and transcriptomic analyses identified signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) as a central target modulated by Huai'er (Trametes). This regulation was associated with decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-17A and tumor necrosis factor alpha, both in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Huai'er (Trametes) exerts therapeutic effects on psoriasis by modulating STAT1, thereby inhibiting keratinocyte proliferation and inflammatory responses. The findings provide a foundation for further research into the potential of Huai'er (Trametes) as a treatment for psoriasis.