Integrated Systems Biology and Chemical Biology Approach to Exploring Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicines

After thousands of years of development, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have evolved into a complete scientific system characterized by multiple components, targets, and pathways, which mediates numerous pharmacological activities and efficacies. The development of “-omics” technology, including systems biology and network pharmacology, has enabled the illustration of TCMs from a more systematic view. Although the network adequately reflects the overall philosophy of TCMs, its complexity hinders the relevant research to a hover. In addition, the strategies involved appear to be in contrast to the original concise and efficacious disease therapy oriented focus on classic Chinese material medica (CMM). Based on the established holistic view and reductionism, in this review, we discuss an integrated systems biology and chemical biology research approach that will facilitate and accelerate the understanding of the mechanisms of TCMs. Furthermore, we are optimistic that it will elucidate the associated interactions between active natural products and their targets, and ultimately improve the strategies for complex disease therapies.