Mechanistic insights into the anti-aging potential of Centella asiatica via network pharmacology and molecular docking

Network pharmacology is utilized to leverage computational power and big data to elucidate molecular function and biological processes, describing the potential mechanism of medicinal plants in certain diseases. In this study, a network pharmacology approach was used to analyze unbiased potential mechanisms of Centella asiatica in aging. From the analysis, 28 core protein targets were predicted, showing potential mechanisms of action in the cellular senescence pathway. Key protein targets associated with aging biological processes include PTEN, TP53, MAPK3, AKT1, MYC, IL6, and SIRT1. These proteins contribute to aging modulation by regulating cell proliferation, survival, and repair mechanisms: MYC, AKT1, and MAPK3 promote controlled cell growth; PTEN and TP53 prevent abnormal proliferation and ensure damaged cells undergo repair or apoptosis; while SIRT1 activation supports longevity through DNA repair, and IL-6 inhibition helps reduce inflammation. These interconnected activities suggest that C. asiatica has broad targets and the ability to integrate various biological pathways, making it an ideal anti-aging candidate. Bioactive compounds of C. asiatica, including Quercetin, Apigenin, Rutin, and Ursolic Acid, show high binding activity toward associated protein targets. Molecular docking with cavity-based blind docking indicates binding affinity lower than −5, suggesting strong potential for these compounds to exert their anti-aging effects in vivo.