Analytical and biomedical applications of microfluidics in traditional Chinese medicine research

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has significant benefits in the prevention and treatment of diseases due to its unique theoretical system and research techniques. However, there are still key issues to be resolved in the full interpretation and use of TCM, such as vague active compounds and mechanism of action. Therefore, it is promising to promote the research on TCM through innovative strategies and advanced cutting-edge technologies. Microfluidic chips have provided controllable unique platforms for biomedical applications in TCM research with flexible composition and large-scale integration. In this review, the analysis and biomedical applications of microfluidics in the field of TCM are highlighted, including quality control of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs), delivery of CHMs, evaluation of pharmacological activity as well as disease diagnosis. Finally, potential challenges and prospects of existing microfluidic technologies in the inheritance and innovation of TCM are discussed. (c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays a significant role in disease prevention and treatment, but there are unresolved issues regarding active compounds and mechanisms of action. Therefore, innovative strategies and advanced technologies are promising for TCM research. Microfluidic chips provide controllable platforms for TCM research, enabling analysis and biomedical applications in quality control, delivery, pharmacological activity evaluation, and disease diagnosis of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs).