Deciphering the multi-target therapeutic capabilities of Ocimum tenuiflorum Linn. Compounds against systemic lupus erythematosus and inflammatory bowel disease: a network pharmacology and molecular modelling approach.

ABSTRACT

The coexistence of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a rare and hard-to-diagnose multisystem autoimmune disorder. Allopathic treatment approaches often fall short in managing both conditions simultaneously, as specific medications targeting this dual manifestation are lacking. In such instances, herbal medicine can offer a potential solution through its holistic approach. Ocimum tenuiflorum (O. tenuiflorum) a rich source of bioactive compounds belonging to Lamiaceae family. This study employs network pharmacology and molecular modelling to unveil the multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms of O. tenuiflorum as a complementary therapy. A total of 423 common targets were obtained, among which AKT1, TNF, SRC, EGFR, HIF1A, HSP9AA, BCL2, and STAT3 were identified as the key targets. Lastly, molecular modelling validated the strong binding affinity between O. tenuiflorum 's compounds and the identified targets. In conclusion, these investigations provide new insight for further study of O. tenuiflorum towards the management of SLE and IBD.