Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To clarify the molecular mechanism of Polygoni Multiflori Radix in improving dyslipidemia and provide a scientific basis for its clinical application. METHODS: Network pharmacology, molecular docking and simulation were used to predict and verify active components and core targets of Polygoni Multiflori Radix. HFD-induced hyperlipidemic mice were grouped and administered for 28 days; serum indices, hepatic pathology and AMPK/SREBP-2/PCSK9/LDLR pathway expression were detected. RESULTS: Twenty-two active components, 101 potential targets and the AMPK pathway (core) were identified. TSG, its main component, bound stably to AMPK/SREBP-2/PCSK9/LDLR. Polygoni Multiflori Radix dose-dependently improved HFD-induced abnormalities in mice (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Polygoni Multiflori Radix effectively improves HFD-induced dyslipidemia by regulating the AMPK/SREBP-2/PCSK9/LDLR pathway to ameliorate hepatocyte lipid metabolism and reduce oxidative stress/liver injury.