Network Pharmacology as a Tool to Explore the Therapeutic Mechanism of Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Nopal) in Type 2 Diabetes and Colorectal Cancer | Bentham Science Publishers
Introduction
Considering the shared physiological mechanisms between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and colorectal cancer (CRC), it is plausible that certain compounds may exert therapeutic effects on both diseases. Opuntia ficus-indica (nopal) has been traditionally used to manage these conditions. This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms through which nopal exerts its effects on T2D and CRC.
Methods
Bioactive compounds of nopal, their molecular targets, and genes associated with T2D and CRC were identified from public databases. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, metabolic pathway analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and molecular docking were conducted to investigate the shared molecular targets.
Results
Nopal contains bioactive compounds that interact with molecular targets common to both T2D and CRC. These shared targets are implicated in lipid metabolism, apoptosis, kinase activity, interleukin-related pathways (IL-2 and IL-3), inflammation, gastrin signaling, and other critical processes. Key molecular targets identified include HSP90AA1 and MAPK8, while the principal bioactive compounds of nopal are eriodictyol and aromadendrin.
Discussion
The identification of eriodictyol and aromadendrin as modulators of HSP90AA1 and MAPK8 elucidates a pleiotropic mechanism underlying the link between type 2 diabetes and colorectal cancer. By modulating apoptotic and inflammatory pathways, these bioactive compounds offer a promising foundation for developing dual-action therapies targeting both metabolic and oncogenic pathways in patients with comorbid conditions.
Conclusion
The bioactive compounds of nopal engage multiple biological pathways relevant to T2D and CRC, suggesting that this plant may serve as a promising pharmacological candidate for the management of these diseases.
