Uncovering the Mechanism of <i>Phoebe zhennan</i> Essential Oil Against Prostate Cancer Based on Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and In Vitro Validation

Phoebe zhennan S.K.Lee & F.N.Wei, a rare endemic Chinese species of medicinal value, was investigated for the anti-prostate cancer (anti-PCa) mechanisms of its fruit-derived essential oil (PZEO). This integrated study employed in vitro assays, network pharmacology, and molecular docking. Cell biology studies revealed the significant inhibitory effects of PZEO on LNCaP and PC3 tumor cells within 48 h, achieving inhibition rates of 95.1% and 91.06%, respectively. PZEO induced apoptosis in LNCaP cells at rates of 32.23% and 35.04% (0.15 and 0.2 µL/mL). In addition, it suppressed cell migration in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Network pharmacology results revealed 465 targets of active ingredients, including 29 core targets implicated in its anti-PCa efficacy. This study provides reliable data support and novel insights for developing P. zhennan fruit resources.