Exploring the mechanism of Tongqiao Biyan Tablets in treating allergic Rhinitis: Insights from network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, and experimental validation

Tongqiao Biyan Tablets have long been used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR) with desirable clinical efficacy. However, their specific mechanisms remain to be fully explored. To investigate the potential mechanism of Tongqiao Biyan Tablets in the treatment of AR through network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking technology, and experimental validation. The TCMSP was utilized to identify the active ingredients and targets of Tongqiao Biyan Tablets. AR-related targets were retrieved from the GeneCards and OMIM databases. The STRING database and Cytoscape were used to construct PPI network. GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were carried out to determine the involved biological processes and signaling pathways. Finally, molecular docking was performed by AutoDockTools 1.5.6 and AutoDock Vina 4.2. Additionally, animal experiments were conducted to confirm the anti-allergy effect of magnolin. The hub targets identified through the PPI network were IL-6, TNF, IL-1B, EGFR, AKT1, TP53, IL-10, JUN, CXCL8, and IFNG. The PI3K/AKT signaling pathways play a crucial role in the therapeutic effect of Tongqiao Biyan Tablets on AR. Molecular docking indicated that AKT1 had strong binding affinities with kaempferol, luteolin, and magnolin. Animal experiments demonstrated that magnolin significantly reduced behavioral scores in AR mouse models, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration and AKT1 protein expression, and significantly lowered the secretion of MCP-1, TNF-α, and histamine. We confirmed that Tongqiao Biyan Tablets and their active ingredient, magnolin, can inhibit mast cell activation and suppress the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to alleviate AR.