Analysis of toxicity and mechanisms of DEHP in prostate cancer with network toxicology and molecular docking strategy

Recent decades have seen a significant increase in the use of industrial chemicals, introducing numerous environmental pollutants with uncertain health impacts. Among these, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a key plastic industry component, has raised concerns due to its carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting potential, particularly its association with tumorigenesis. The current study focused on DEHP’s implications for prostate cancer (PCa), a leading health issue for men worldwide. DEHP’s endocrine-disrupting properties, which interfere with hormone functions crucial for PCa development and progression, prompted our investigation into its specific role in PCa. Utilizing network toxicology and molecular docking strategies, we aimed to uncover the molecular targets implicated in DEHP-induced PCa. Our research successfully identified 88 targets linked to DEHP’s influence on prostate carcinogenesis, with a focus on genes within focal adhesion and cancer pathways, such as SRC, MMP9, MMP2, PTGS2, and CCND1. These findings revealed the molecular mechanisms by which DEHP may contribute to PCa, providing a foundation for future therapeutic strategies to counteract DEHP’s adverse effects on prostate health.