Systematic Study on the Mechanism of Tanshinone IIA Based on Bioinformatics

Objective: Tanshinone IIA, one of the most abundant liposoluble components isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza, exhibits significant biological activities in anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antitumor effects. This study aims to systematically explore the mechanism of Tanshinone IIA through bioinformatics. Methods: We utilized the TCMSP database to retrieve the oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL) of Tanshinone IIA. The gene chip numbered GSE85871 was downloaded from the GEO database, and differential genes were analyzed using R language to identify potential targets of Tanshinone IIA. After obtaining these targets, GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis were performed using the DAVID 6.8 database. Diseases related to Tanshinone IIA were explored through the CTD database. Finally, Cytoscape was employed to construct a visual network of multiple targets, pathways, and diseases associated with Tanshinone IIA. Results: Tanshinone IIA demonstrated good drug efficacy with an OB value of 49.89% and a DL value of 0.4. A total of 132 potential targets were identified, primarily exhibiting gene co-expression and physical interaction in the PPI network. These targets were enriched in biological processes and pathways such as ovarian steroidogenesis, cell cycle, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Tanshinone IIA was found to be relevant in the treatment of diseases including breast tumors, hypertension, atherosclerosis, gliomas, vascular system injuries, left ventricular hypertrophy, leukemia, and hearing loss. Conclusion: Utilizing bioinformatics approaches, we systematically analyzed the possible molecular mechanisms of Tanshinone IIA, providing potential targets and insights into its pharmacological mechanisms and treatment strategies