Integrating network pharmacology and Mendelian randomization to explore potential targets of Fufang Banmao capsule against non-small cell lung cancer.

[BACKGROUND] Fufang Banmao Capsule (FBC) is clinically applied in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), yet its underlying pharmacological mechanism remains to be fully elucidated.

[OBJECTIVES] This study aimed to systematically elucidate the pharmacological actions of FBC against NSCLC by integrating network pharmacology and Mendelian randomization approaches.

[METHODS] Active components and potential targets of FBC were retrieved from the BATMAN-TCM database, while NSCLC-related therapeutic targets were collected from OMIM, TTD, and DisGeNet. Enrichment analysis and a "Herbs-Ingredients-Targets-Pathways" network were constructed. Core targets were further identified through protein-protein interaction and Mendelian randomization analyses, followed by colocaliza tion tests and molecular docking validation.

[RESULTS] A total of 152 potential FBC targets for NSCLC were identified, with seven candidates shortlisted. Among these, TNF and PIK3CA emerged as key protective targets (P<0.0025, OR<1). Colocalization analysis suggested possible shared genetic causality of TNF and PIK3CA single nucleotide polymorphisms with increased NSCLC risk. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding interactions between these targets and active FBC compounds such as resveratrol.

[CONCLUSION] The findings provide a theoretical foundation and new research directions for further investigation into the anti-NSCLC mechanism of FBC, supporting future innovation in therapeutic strategies.