Innovative approaches and clinical translation strategies for allergic rhinitis as a clinically advantageous disease in traditional Chinese medicine

<x>Abstract</x> This study is situated within the context of developing clinically advantageous diseases in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It systematically analyzes the current status of diagnosis and treatment for allergic rhinitis (AR) from both the TCM and Western medicine (WM) perspectives. Through a series of academic salons focused on clinically advantageous diseases and comprehensive literature reviews, the study aimed to refine and innovate the TCM theoretical framework for AR. Building on the strengths of TCM in managing AR, it further explores in-depth scientific and technological innovation strategies and pathways for clinical translation. This study proposes a “four-in-one” technological framework, clinical observation-basic research-clinical translation-outcome promotion. Clinical observation involves long-term monitoring and holistic efficacy assessment; basic research focuses on the mechanisms of TCM in preventing and treating AR and pharmacological studies; clinical translation applies basic research findings to practice to explore effective treatment protocols; outcome promotion of achievements refers to disseminating effective treatment methods and research findings. Simultaneously, four key technological support systems for TCM prevention and treatment of AR were established to collaboratively safeguard prevention and treatment efforts. Through these initiatives, we aim to provide a strategic framework to advance the integration of TCM with modern science and technology, thereby fostering innovative development in the prevention and treatment of AR with TCM. <x>Graphical abstract</x> <graphic xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="graphic/j.2096-0964.WJIM-2025-0046-GAB.jpg"/> <x>Highlights</x> <list list-type="bullet"> <list-item> Proposed “Yu Yu Zang Qiao” as the core AR pathogenesis. </list-item> <list-item> Established acupuncture-herbal therapy with neuro-immune mechanism. </list-item> <list-item> Built a four-in-one framework from clinic to global promotion. </list-item> </list> <x>In Brief:</x> This review outlines traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) innovations in allergic rhinitis (AR) based on the “Yu Yu Zang Qiao” pathogenesis and “acupuncture-herbal” therapy, and proposes a four-in-one framework to advance integrated TCM-Western medicine strategies.