Integrated analyses identify key genes related to Qingyihuaji formula for pancreatic adenocarcinoma treatment based on network pharmacology combined with bioinformatics

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine QingYiHuaJi formula (QYHJ) has anti-tumor effect in Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD). However, the potential mechanism and key targets of QYHJ have not been fully elucidated. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanisms and key targets of QYHJ in PAAD treatment. Methods: The overlapping genes between the targets of QYHJ and the common differentially expressed genes (Co-DEGs) identified in PAAD were selected as potential QYHJ for PAAD-related genes. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, functional enrichment and pathways analyses were performed. ROC curve and Cox regression model were used to evaluate the diagnostic and prognosis value. Correlation between hub genes and immune cell infiltration were further analyzed. Results: A total of 9 hub genes (PTGS2, BCL2L1, ICAM1, MET, NQO1, MMP3, NFATC1, CCNB1, ERBB3) were identified. These hub genes were linked to inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis related signaling pathways. ROC analysis showed that 8 hub genes may serve as potential diagnostic markers. Survival analysis indicated that 6 genes (BCL2L1, CCNB1, ERBB3, MET, MMP3 and NFATC1) were closely related to prognosis of the PAAD patients. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the model developed using the hub gene signature exhibited strong predictive capacity for clinical outcome. ICAM1, MET, NQO1 and ERBB3 were associated with infiltration of Th2 and Th17 immune cells. The low-risk group exhibited better drug sensitivity. Conclusion: These hub genes related to QYHJ have diagnostic value and may serve as potential prognostic and drug sensitivity biomarkers for PAAD.