Mechanism of Mongolian Medicine Ӧlmei-7 on Cirrhotic Ascites Using Integrated Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology

Introduction: Ölmei-7, a traditional Mongolian medicine used for edema since the 16th century, and has remained clinically relevant. . Its mechanisms for treating cirrhotic ascites are underexplored. . This study integrates metabolomics and network pharmacology to elucidate these mechanisms and validates its taste properties using electronic tongue analysis. Methods: Taste was analyzed using an electronic tongue. Bioactive components were identified via HILIC UHPLC-Q-TOF MS and databases (TCMSP, GeneCards). PPI networks were built with Cytoscape and STRING, followed by GO/KEGG analyses using OmicBeans. Molecular docking was performed with OpenBabel. Results: Electronic tongue analysis confirmed Ölmei-7’s bitter and umami tastes, aligning with Mongolian medical theory. Metabolomics identified 997 targets, 130 overlapping with cirrhotic ascites genes. GO analysis showed enrichment in 6200 biological processes, 513 cellular components, and 784 molecular functions. KEGG analysis identified 255 pathways, including TNF and IL-17 signaling. Molecular docking of five proteins (TNF, EGFR, MMP9, JUN, BCL2) with five compounds showed stable binding, with Rutin-MMP9 at -9.1 kcal•mol-¹. Discussion: Ölmei-7’s active components (e.g., quercetin, luteolin) likely reduce ascites by inhibiting TNF-α-mediated inflammation and vascular permeability, protecting liver function via BCL2, improving fibrosis via MMP9/EGFR, and reducing oxidative stress via JUN. These findings support its traditional use and elucidate its mechanisms. Conclusion: Ölmei-7 alleviates cirrhotic ascites through anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, , and antioxidative pathways, as revealed by metabolomics and network pharmacology. This study enhances understanding of its pharmacological basis and supports clinical applications.