Systematic Characterization of Anti-aging Active Constituents in Shouxing Buzhi Oral Liquid Based on UPLC-MS/MS and Network Pharmacology

OBJECTIVE To systematically analyze the chemical composition of Shouxing Buzhi oral liquid, identify its anti-aging active constituents, and explore potential mechanisms of action.

METHODS Identified chemical components in the oral liquid using UPLC-Q-Tof MS/MS technology. Screened targets for active constituents and anti-aging effects of Shouxing Buzhi oral liquid via SEA, SwissTargetPrediction, and Genecards databases. Constructed a protein-protein interaction network using the STRING database and evaluated target significance through topological parameters. Conducted GO functional and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses using the DAVID database. Built a herb-compound-target-pathway network using Cytoscape 3.8.2 software.

RESULTS A total of 108 compounds were identified, covering components from 6 biosynthetic pathways(e.g., shikimate-phenylpropanoid and terpenoid pathways). Core active constituents(moupinamide, 6-gingerol, licochalcone B) were screened via the “compound-target-pathway” network. Enrichment analysis revealed significant activation of 20 pathways(PI3K-Akt, HIF-1, etc.) by regulating key targets(SRC, STAT3, EGFR). Biological processes mediated: oxidative stress inhibition, apoptosis regulation, and insulin signal transduction, demonstrating multi-target synergistic anti-aging mechanisms.

CONCLUSION This study preliminarily verifies that Shouxing Buzhi oral liquid exerts anti-aging effects through multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway interactions, providing a reference for further research on its material basis and mechanisms of action against aging.