In vivo and in silico analysis of Xanthii fructus against atopic dermatitis

Xanthii fructus (XF) is the fruit of Xanthium strumarium L., has been used as a traditional medicine for its bioactive properties in China, America, and Europe. In our previous study, Korean (XFK) and Chinese (XFC) XF extracts demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in cell-based models, including the collagen promotion and hyaluronan synthesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-atopic effects of XFK and XFC in vivo and to compare these result with in silico analysis in order to identify potential signaling pathways [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ]. In a DNCB-induced mouse model of atopic dermatitis, both XFK and XFC significantly reduced scratching frequency and the skin thickness of epidermis and dermis. XFK specifically led to reduction reduced in SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss and serum IgE levels, whereas neither extract significantly affected serum histamine levels. Furthermore, XFK decreased the mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6, whereas XFC modulated p-p38/p38 ratio and iNOS expression. In silico network analysis identified oleic acid, linoleic acid, and arachidonic acid; as a key compounds linking XF with inflammation-related genes such as IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6 and CASP3. In conclusion, both XFK and XFC ameliorated immune response associated with atopic dermatitis via different mechanisms. These differences are likely due to geographical variation in bioactive composition. Despite these differences, both XF extracts show promising potential application in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products targeting inflammation and atopic skin conditions. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany