Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Targeted Treatment of Gastric Cancer

Abstract

In recent years, gastric cancer, a highly prevalent and lethal malignant tumor worldwide, remains a key focus of medical research. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers unique advantages in cancer prevention and treatment, particularly in its holistic approach and syndrome differentiation. This article systematically reviews the theoretical basis of TCM's "strengthening the body's resistance, dispelling pathogenic factors, and harmonizing yin and yang" approach to treating gastric cancer. Integrating this with modern research findings, we summarize the mechanisms of action of TCM monomers (such as curcumin) and compound formulas in targeted gastric cancer therapy. Studies have shown that TCM, through its multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms, not only delays gastric cancer progression but also provides new adjuncts to modern precision medicine. However, analyses have revealed that the complex composition of TCM, the difficulty in targeting targets, and the variability in preparation processes remain major challenges in its clinical application. Overall, the application of TCM in the targeted treatment of gastric cancer holds significant theoretical and clinical significance. Future research is needed to strengthen the mechanisms of action of active ingredients, optimize preparation processes, and promote the deep integration of TCM with modern medicine, thereby providing new avenues for the development of novel, highly effective, and low-toxic anticancer drugs.