Key targets including AKT1, TNF, IL-6, and EGFR were identified as central to YHD's action.<h4>Discussion</h4>YHD alleviates PCPA-induced depression-like behaviors in mice by modulating 5-HT levels, correcting metabolic imbalances in tryptophan and riboflavin pathways, and regulating neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter systems, and cellular signaling via targets such as AKT1 and TNF. Here, AKT1 is linked to major depressive disorder.