Tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomic analysis of the intervening mechanism of immunoactive peptides from Meretrix meretrix Linnaeus on autoimmune prostatitis in rats

Meretrix meretrix Linnaeus (MML), a common marine bivalve, has demonstrated notable immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties in both animal models and human cell-based studies. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain poorly understood. In this study, we characterized immunoactive peptides derived from MML (MLIP) and evaluated their effects in a rat model of autoimmune prostatitis. MLIP treatment significantly improved histological abnormalities and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β. Tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics identified 245 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in rats treated with 400 mg/kg MLIP compared to untreated disease controls, including 193 upregulated and 52 downregulated proteins ( p < 0.05). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that these DEPs were enriched in processes such as cytoskeletal in muscle cells, glycolysis, motor proteins, and amino acid biosynthesis. These findings suggest that MLIP exerts protective effects in autoimmune prostatitis by modulating metabolic and structural processes within prostate tissue. Overall, MLIP holds potential as a promising candidate for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune prostatitis. • The composition of MLIP was analyzed from the perspective of MW, amino acids, and peptide sequence. • MLIP alleviates immune prostatitis by improving tissue morphology and decreasing inflammatory factor expression. • 245 differentially expressed proteins were identified in rat prostates treated with MLIP. • The intervention mechanism involves cytoskeletal in muscle cells, glycolysis, motor proteins, and amino acid biosynthesis.