Mechanistic Study of Yibi Decoction in Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis via Modulating the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway

Area of Science:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and destruction.
• Current treatments for RA have limitations, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies.
• Yibi Decoction (YBD) is a traditional herbal formula with potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of Yibi Decoction (YBD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of YBD action, focusing on the Janus Kinase/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway.

Main Methods:

• Network pharmacology was used to identify YBD's active compounds and targets.
• A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was established for in vivo validation.
• Western blotting, ELISA, and histopathology assessed inflammatory markers and joint pathology.

Main Results:

• Network pharmacology identified quercetin and luteolin as key active compounds in YBD.
• YBD treatment significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-17, IL-23) and JAK/STAT pathway components (JAK2, STAT3) in CIA rats.
• YBD administration decreased arthritis index, serum anti-CCP and RF levels, and attenuated synovial hyperplasia and cartilage damage.

Conclusions:

• YBD demonstrates significant therapeutic effects against rheumatoid arthritis in a CIA rat model.
• The anti-arthritic effects of YBD are mediated through the inhibition of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.
• Quercetin and luteolin are likely key contributors to YBD's efficacy in suppressing inflammation and joint pathology.