Experimental and network pharmacological analyses of the effects and mechanisms of Chinese dwarf cherry <i>(Cerasus humilis)</i> polyphenol extract on osteoporosis

Background Osteoporosis (OP) is a progressive systemic skeletal disease with complex pathogenesis. Cerasus humilis is a unique functional fruit in China. Its fruit is rich in polyphenols and other pharmacologically active components and can be used to improve bone health, making it a valuable resource for treatment OP. Objective This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effects and mechanism of action of C. humilis polyphenol extract (CPE) using experimental and network pharmacology approaches. Methods The composition of CPE was identified using UPLC. OVX mice served as a model to ascertain the therapeutic efficacy of CPE in osteoporosis OP. Employing network pharmacology, we predicted the principal bioactive constituents and pivotal molecular targets of CPE implicated in the management of OP. Subsequently, molecular docking studies were conducted to confirm the interaction between the identified active compounds and their corresponding targets. Results The CPE content reached 0.65 g/100 g FW. A total of 27 components were identified in CPE. After CPE treatment, the degree of trabecular bone separation decreased, the density increased, and the size of the bone marrow cavity decreased. The bone formation marker PINP and the ratio of OPG/sRANKL increased significantly, while the bone absorption marker β-CTX did not change significantly. Network pharmacology revealed 109 targets of CPE components and 35 pathways involved in the effect on OP. Molecular docking results showed that key components, such as rutin, caffeic acid, (-)-epicatechin gallate, (-)-catechin gallate, and apigenin-7- O -glucoside, had good binding abilities to the core targets TNF, INS, IL6, and IL1B. Conclusions CPE can alleviate OP via various targets and pathways, provided insight into the pharmacological mechanism, and support the commercial value of C. humilis , promoting its sustainable utilization and contribution to health.