Review of Chinese medicine intervention in PI3K/AKT pathway to regulate fibrosis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Pharmacology
• Integrative Medicine

Background:

• Fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition, leads to tissue scarring and dysfunction.
• The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway is a key regulator of fibrotic processes.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shows promise in managing fibrotic diseases by modulating signaling pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in TCM interventions targeting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway for fibrotic diseases.
• To summarize the therapeutic effects of TCM on fibrosis across various organs via PI3K/AKT pathway regulation.

Main Methods:

• Extensive literature search conducted across major scientific databases (Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scifinder, Baidu Scholar, PubMed).
• Analysis of studies focusing on TCM monomers, extracts, compounds, and formulas impacting the PI3K/AKT pathway in fibrosis.
• Synthesis of findings on TCM's role in preventing and treating fibrotic conditions.

Main Results:

• Identified 37 TCM monomers, 68 extracts/compounds, and 50 TCM formulas with antifibrotic potential.
• TCM interventions demonstrate significant modulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway in various fibrotic models.
• Positive therapeutic effects of TCM observed in fibrosis affecting multiple organs.

Conclusions:

• TCM offers a promising therapeutic strategy for managing fibrotic diseases through PI3K/AKT pathway regulation.
• Current research provides novel perspectives and approaches for utilizing TCM in fibrosis treatment.
• TCM exhibits significant potential in addressing the complexities of fibrotic disorders.