How do Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas target pathways in Dry Eye Disease models?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas are being studied for dry eye disease (DED) because they may act on several disease pathways at once. Unlike single-target drugs, TCM formulas contain multiple active compounds that can influence different signaling pathways involved in DED. Research suggests these formulas target inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death pathways, which are key drivers of the disease.
What the research says
A 2026 review systematically described how TCM formulas modulate interconnected pathological processes in DED models 68. The review identified several important signaling pathways that are altered in DED, including PI3K/AKT, MAPK, NF-κB, NLRP3, Nrf2, SIRT, AMPK, and VEGF 68. These pathways are involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). TCM formulas can simultaneously target single or multiple of these pathways, offering a multi-target approach 68.
A 2022 study used network pharmacology to explore the mechanism of Qiju Dihuang Pill (QJDHP), a specific TCM formula, against DED 9. The study identified 253 targets of QJDHP related to DED and found that the formula's active compounds bind well to core targets involved in inflammation and other processes 9. This supports the idea that TCM formulas work through multiple mechanisms.
Other TCM-related interventions, such as acupuncture and moxibustion, have also been studied for DED. A systematic review of 319 randomized controlled trials mapped the evidence for these treatments, noting that liver-kidney yin deficiency syndrome was the most common TCM syndrome type among patients 3. However, this review focused on clinical outcomes rather than specific molecular pathways.
What to ask your doctor
- Could a TCM formula like Qiju Dihuang Pill be a helpful addition to my current dry eye treatment?
- Are there any known interactions between TCM formulas and my current medications?
- How do the multi-target effects of TCM formulas compare to standard dry eye therapies?
- Should I see a qualified TCM practitioner who has experience with dry eye disease?
- What signs or symptoms would suggest that a TCM approach might be working for me?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about this topic and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.