Multi target effects of Allium macrostemon against myocardial infarction: an integrated network pharmacology,
Yongcong He1, Yangyang Jiang2, Meifang Leng1
1Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial, General Hospital of Jinan University, No.466, Xingang Middle Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510317, China.
Background:
Myocardial infarction (MI), a leading cause of global mortality, is inadequately managed by current therapies due to incomplete efficacy and adverse effects. This study aimed to investigate the multi-target mechanisms of Allium macrostemon Bunge (AM) against MI using an integrative strategy.
Methods:
Bioactive compounds and MI‑related targets of AM were predicted via network pharmacology and validated by molecular docking. The chemical profile of the AM water decoction was characterized by liquid chromatography‑tandem mass spectrometry (LC‑MS/MS). A rat MI model was established to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of AM, including infarct size, platelet aggregation, and coagulation parameters (prothrombin time [PT] and activated partial thromboplastin time [APTT]).
Results:
Network pharmacology identified 11 bioactive compounds and 63 MI-related targets. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding between flavonoids and critical targets. LC‑MS/MS analysis of the AM decoction revealed a complex chemical profile, including the detection of N‑trans‑feruloyltyramine, a known antiplatelet compound, as a key overlapping constituent. AM reduced infarct size, suppressed platelet activation and cardiac injury markers, restored cardiomyocyte integrity, inhibited fibrosis and macrophage infiltration, with high-dose AM comparable to aspirin. Moreover, AM did not prolong PT or APTT, indicating a favorable bleeding risk profile.
Conclusion:
AM alleviates MI through multi‑target regulation of apoptosis and inflammation, and shows antiplatelet efficacy comparable to aspirin under the present experimental conditions, without prolonging PT or APTT.