Sanghuang Treats Periodontitis Via The Pi3k/Akt/Nf-Κb Pathway

Aim or purpose: This study aims to systematically predict and validate the therapeutic potential of Sanghuang (Phellinus igniarius), a natural medicinal fungus, against periodontitis through multi-dimensional approaches. Materials and methods: The active components of Sanghuang were identified through database mining, literature review, and UPLC analysis. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to predict targets and pathways, with the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway predicted as a potential target. In vitro, Raw264.7 cells were used for CCK-8 assay, RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway proteins, along with ROS detection using DCFH-DA. In vivo, a periodontitis mouse model (C57BL/6, male, 42 days, 20g) was established, with bone loss assessed via Micro-CT, tissue morphology analyzed by H&E and Masson staining, and pathway proteins examined via immunohistochemistry. All procedures were approved by the Ethics Committee. Results: Sanghuang contains multiple natural components, such as Phellinigninisterol A, Saurufuran A, and Triptocalline A, which can form stable interactions with their targets. In vitro, Sanghuang significantly reduced the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α (p<0.05), suppressed ROS production, and inhibited PI3K/AKT/NF-κB phosphorylation. In mice, Sanghuang attenuated alveolar bone loss, reduced inflammatory infiltration, and enhanced collagen fiber organization. Conclusions: Sanghuang exerts anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, suggesting its potential as a novel therapeutic agent for periodontitis.