Comparison of Back Tuina and Oral Astragalus Methods to Enhance Immunosuppression in Rabbits and Prediction of Astragalus Targets for Immune Function Improvement

Abstract

Back tuina massage and oral administration of astragalus are two methods used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to improve immune function. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of tuina and orally administered astragalus on immunosuppressed rabbits using proteomics technology. Additionally, we investigate the potential mechanism of action of astragalus components on immunosuppression using an integration of network pharmacology and molecular docking technology. The findings suggested that cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression is primarily mediated through signaling pathways that include complement and coagulation cascades and chemical carcinogenesis. Immunosuppression is modulated by tuina and the oral administration of astragalus through various proteins and signaling pathways. A network pharmacology analysis indicated that quercetin, trichothecene isoflavones, and kaempferol in astragalus exhibited immunomodulatory effects. Molecular docking validation demonstrated that 15 major targets showed strong binding affinities to their respective interacting active ingredients. This trial provides references for future studies on the immune-boosting properties of tuina and oral astragalus.