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image of Astragalus Mongholicus for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment: From Molecules to Systems

Abstract

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal interstitial lung disease with limited treatment options. (AM), a cornerstone herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), demonstrates significant therapeutic potential for IPF due to its multi-target mechanisms. This review synthesizes evidence on AM and its bioactive components; astragalus polysaccharide (APS), astragaloside IV (AS IV), and calycosin (CAL) in targeting key IPF pathological processes. These include suppression of inflammatory responses ( TLR4/NF-κB inhibition), inhibition of extracellular matrix deposition ( MMP/TIMP modulation), attenuation of oxidative stress, regulation of autophagy, and blockade of epithelial-mesenchymal transition ( lncRNA-ATB/miR-200c/ZEB1 axis). We further highlight the integration of molecular-level mechanisms with systems pharmacology to elucidate AM’s holistic actions. Clinical studies support AM-containing TCM prescriptions in improving lung function with fewer adverse effects. This synthesis underscores AM’s promise as a multi-target therapeutic agent and advocates for systematic pharmacology approaches in future IPF drug development.

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2025-09-30
2025-11-01
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