Network Pharmacology as a Tool to Explore the Therapeutic Mechanism of Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Nopal) in Type 2 Diabetes and Colorectal Cancer

INTRODUCTION: Considering the shared physiological mechanisms between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and colorectal cancer (CRC), it is plausible that certain compounds may exert therapeutic effects on both diseases. Opuntia ficus-indica (nopal) has been traditionally used to manage these conditions. This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms through which nopal exerts its effects on T2D and CRC. METHODS: Bioactive compounds of nopal, their molecular targets, and genes associated with T2D and CRC were identified from public databases. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, metabolic pathway analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and molecular docking were conducted to investigate the shared molecular targets. RESULTS: Nopal contains bioactive compounds that interact with molecular targets common to both T2D and CRC. These shared targets are implicated in lipid metabolism, apoptosis, kinase activity, interleukin-related pathways (IL-2 and IL-3), inflammation, gastrin signaling, and other critical processes. Key molecular targets identified include HSP90AA1 and MAPK8, while the principal bioactive compounds of nopal are eriodictyol and aromadendrin. DISCUSSION: The identification of eriodictyol and aromadendrin as modulators of HSP90AA1 and MAPK8 elucidates a pleiotropic mechanism underlying the link between type 2 diabetes and colorectal cancer. By modulating apoptotic and inflammatory pathways, these bioactive compounds offer a promising foundation for developing dual-action therapies targeting both metabolic and oncogenic pathways in patients with comorbid conditions. CONCLUSION: The bioactive compounds of nopal engage multiple biological pathways relevant to T2D and CRC, suggesting that this plant may serve as a promising pharmacological candidate for the management of these diseases.