Prediction of Capsaicin from Carolina Reaper Chili (Capsicum chinense L.) as TNF Expression Inhibitor for Artritis Reumatoid
Keywords:
Capsicum chinense L., capsaicin, TNF-α, artritis reumatoidAbstract
This study explores the potential of capsaicin from Capsicum chinense L. (Carolina Reaper) as a TNF-α inhibitor in rheumatoid arthritis (AR) therapy through an in silico approach. Molecular docking analysis and molecular dynamics simulation showed that capsaicin has a strong binding affinity to TNF-α, with a binding energy of -7.8 kcal/mol. Further computational predictions (Pa = 0.658, Pi = 0.009) further support the potential of capsaicin as an effective natural anti-inflammatory agent. In addition to its TNF-α inhibitory mechanism, capsaicin also shows ability in modulating other inflammatory pathways, making it a promising therapeutic candidate. Other advantages of capsaicin include its wide availability, more affordable cost compared to conventional biological therapies, as well as additional pharmacological benefits. Thus, capsaicin-based formulations and more targeted delivery strategies may enhance its therapeutic efficacy. These findings provide a strong scientific basis for the development of natural therapies for AR and other inflammatory diseases. Further research, both through in vitro studies and clinical trials, is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in clinical applications.
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