Isopsoralen alleviates osteoarthritis by modulating the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway and regulating the structure of gut microbiota

Ethnopharmacological relevance The therapeutic effect of Psoralea corylifolia L. on knee joint pain was recorded as early as the Ming Dynasty in the Compendium of Materia Medica, which notes its actions of tonifying the kidney, strengthening tendons, and bones. Isopsoralen (ISO), derived from the Psoralea corylifolia L., has shown efficacy in improving osteoarthritis (OA) in both traditional use and our previous screening, demonstrating effects in alleviating joint inflammation and protecting cartilage. Aim of the study OA is a common disabling disease. Its progression connects local joint pathology to systemic metabolic and inflammatory states, extending to gut microbiota and metabolites. This study examines the therapeutic mechanism of isopsoralen against OA using a DMM-induced model. Materials and methods ISO's targets were predicted by network pharmacology approaches. Therapeutic effects were evaluated through behavioral tests, micro-CT, histology, Western blot, and PCR, while safety was assessed via liver/kidney staining. 16S rDNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics were employed to analyze gut microbiota structure and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Pseudo germ-free mice and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) were used to validate the role of gut microbiota. Results Network pharmacology indicated ISO's multi-target action against OA. ISO downregulated the MAPK/NF-κB pathway, attenuated subchondral bone abnormalities, and alleviated joint degeneration in DMM mice. It also modulated gut microbiota composition and SCFA levels. FMT confirmed the essential role of gut microbiota in ISO's efficacy. Furthermore, no hepatorenal toxicity was observed. Conclusion ISO alleviates OA by modulating gut microbiota/SCFAs and inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB pathway, thereby reducing inflammation and improving bone abnormalities, without hepatorenal toxicity.