Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and in vivo-based Analysis on the Effects of the MBZM-N-IBT for Arthritis

Arthritis is the cause of morbidity associated with Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection. It persists even after the virus has been cleared from the body. MBZM-NIBT was earlier shown to inhibit (CHIKV) infection in vitro and in vivo.

The objective of this study is to determine the ability of MBZM-N-IBT to manage arthritis independent of CHIKV infection.

The acute toxicity of MBZM-N-IBT was determined to find a permissible oral dose. Effects against inflammation and arthritis were determined in relevant preclinical models. Network pharmacology was used to propose possible modes of action.

It showed no acute toxicity orally, with an estimated LD₅₀ of more than 5000 mg/kg in rats. It significantly reduced inflammation. Its effect against Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis was comparable to that of Diclofenac sodium. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that MBZM-N-IBT can potentially interfere with multiple targets and pathways. MMP12 and CTSD were found to be the most probable hub targets of MBZM-N-IBT for its effect against arthritis.

In conclusion, MBZM-N-IBT is safe at 50 mg/kg and can manage arthritis independent of CHIKV infection through modulation of multiple pathways and arthritis-associated targets.