Investigation of anti-hepatocellular carcinoma active components and mechanism of Prinsepia utilis seed residue via spectrum-effect relationship integrated with network pharmacology

Abstract

In recent years, the pharmacological activities and potential applications of Prinsepia utilis have garnered significant attention. However, most studies have focused on Prinsepia utilis oil, whereas research on its seed residue remains limited. In this study, the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity of Prinsepia utilis seed residue was firstly investigated using an integrated strategy of spectrum-effect relationship analysis and network pharmacology. The chemical fingerprint of Prinsepia utilis seed residue was established via UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. Proliferation inhibition (CCK-8 assay) and migration capacity (scratch assay) were evaluated in HepG₂/HSF cells. Ten potential bioactive components including five flavonoid glycosides and five diterpenoid glycosides were identified via spectrum-effect relationship analysis. Network pharmacology revealed 46 anti-tumor and 57 anti-scar hyperplasia targets. Key pathways included cancer, lipid and atherosclerosis, relaxin signaling, and IL-17 signaling. Core targets were prioritized, and molecular docking confirmed favorable binding affinities between bioactive aglycones and these targets. The flavonoid glycosides and diterpenoid glycosides in Prinsepia utilis seed residue exert anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity primarily by targeting MAPK14, IL-6, STAT3, HRAS, GNAS, CXCL8, and SRC, thus establishing a scientific rationale for their development as potential therapeutic agents.