Exploring the mechanism of Shendi Bushen capsule in anti-renal fibrosis using metabolomics theory and network analysis

Shendi Bushen capsule (SDBS) is a Chinese patent medicine used for the treatment of renal fibrosis (RF). However, its mechanism of action in the treatment of RF is still unclear, which seriously restricts its clinical application. This study integrated metabolomics and biological network analysis of SDBS against RF mechanism. Metabolomic analysis of rat urine samples identified biomarkers of differential progression of RF and key metabolites regulated by SDBS. The key metabolic pathways and the related therapeutic targets of SDBS against RF were explored using biological network analysis tools. The study finds 12 metabolites as biomarkers for different stages of renal fibrosis progression. SDBS significantly modulates seven metabolites, D-erythro-imidazole-glycerol-phosphate, N-acetyl-L-aspartic acid, formiminoglutamic acid, malonic semialdehyde, 4-pyridoxic acid, isopyridox, and argininosuccinic acid. Network analysis found that alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, one carbon pool by folate, propanoate metabolism, and histidine metabolism are important pathways for SDBS against RF. The results showed that the therapeutic effect of SDBS was related to reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and improving glomerular filtration function.