Understanding channel tropism in traditional Chinese medicine in the context of systems biology

Front Med. 2013 Sep;7(3):277-9. doi: 10.1007/s11684-013-0273-3. Epub 2013 Jun 20.

Abstract

Channel tropism is investigated and developed through long-term clinical practice. In recent years, the development of channel tropism theory has attracted increasing attention. This study analyzed channel tropism theory and the problems associated with it. Results showed that this theory and systems biology have a similar holistic viewpoint. Systems biology could provide novel insights and platform in the study of channel tropism. Some problems in channel tropism theory, including pharmacology and action mechanism, were investigated.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • China
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / metabolism
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / pharmacokinetics
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Medicine, Chinese Traditional*
  • Meridians*
  • Organ Specificity / drug effects
  • Systems Biology*
  • Tissue Distribution
  • Tropism* / drug effects

Substances

  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal