Integrative Evaluation of Jue-Ming Granules for Dry Eye Disease: Evidence-Based Preclinical Insights into Multi-Target Mechanisms

introduction: Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular surface disorder characterized by chronic inflammation and limited long-term therapeutic options. Jue-Ming Granules (JMGs), a modified herbal formulation composed of drug–food homologous and health-grade ingredients, represent a promising integrative intervention with multi-target anti-inflammatory potential. materials: Active compounds and therapeutic targets of JMGs were identified via network pharmacology platforms (TCMSP, HERB, GeneCards, OMIM). Gene Ontology (GO), KEGG enrichment, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) analyses were conducted to identify key pathways. Molecular docking (AutoDock Vina, PyMOL) evaluated compound–target interactions. In vitro assays used benzalkonium chloride-injured human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells to assess cytoprotective effects. In vivo efficacy was evaluated in a DED mouse model induced by atropine and desiccation. results: Quercetin, caffeine, and luteolin were identified as major active compounds targeting key inflammation-related proteins (AKT1, TNF, IL6). JMGs significantly enhanced HCE cell viability and downregulated proinflammatory cytokine expression. In vivo, JMGs promoted tear secretion, reduced corneal damage, preserved goblet cell density, and suppressed inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ). The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was identified as a principal regulatory axis. discussion: JMGs demonstrated robust multi-target anti-inflammatory properties, particularly through modulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling axis. Their composition from food-grade and homologous herbal ingredients suggests a favorable safety profile, supporting their potential role in integrative, evidence-based ophthalmic therapy. conclusion: JMGs exhibit multi-target anti-inflammatory activity via modulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, contributing to ocular surface protection and tear film stability. These findings support the integration of traditional drug–food homologous herbal formulations into evidence-based ocular therapeutics and highlight their translational potential in integrative eye care.