The Yin-Yang theory is the fundamental principle in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In this study, we investigate the scientific connotations of Yin-Yang interdependence and interpromotion by using the estrogen synthesis pathway and its function as a biological model. Yin-Yang interdependence refers to mutual reliance for existence, which is illustrated by cholesterol (Yin, the substantive raw material) and key enzyme activity (Yang, functional catalysis) in estrogen synthesis, where no reaction occurs without either. Yin-Yang interpromotion means synergistic support, such as androgens (Yin, substance) promoting estrogen synthesis via aromatase (ARO1, Yang, enzyme activity), maintaining estrogen homeostasis. Estrogen, a steroid hormone, is synthesized from cholesterol through a sequential conversion process (cholesterol → pregnenolone → progestogen/androgen → estrogen) occurring in the ovaries, placenta, and peripheral tissues, and it interacts bidirectionally with cholesterol, pregnenolone, progestogen, and androgen. The endogenous E2 remains at a relatively high level in ARO1-knockout homozygous female mice, hinting at an alternative E2 pathway. This study verifies Yin-Yang theory with modern biology, laying a foundation for future research on the alternative estrogen pathway and TCM-informed therapeutic targets for estrogen-related processes.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease with a systemic pathogenesis that extends beyond the skin, significantly impacting patients’ psychological well-being and quality of life. The limited efficacy of conventional treatments for core psychosomatic issues such as chronic pruritus, sleep disturbances, and anxiety has spurred interest in complementary therapies such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This study explores the theoretical basis, clinical application, and underlying mechanisms of the TCM approach known as “Tranquilizing the Heart and Calming the Mind” in managing AD. Based on canonical TCM literature such as the Huangdi Neijing, this article details the role of the “Heart” in AD, encompassing both its physiological functions and pathological contributions to disease development. These findings establish this method as central to the AD treatment approach, especially when managing prominent psychological and sleep-related symptoms. We propose a flexible clinical framework utilizing a modified formula pivoting on Os Draconis (Long Gu) and Concha Ostreae (Mu Li). This formula is intended to regulate the “Heart-Spirit” to alleviate internal wind and dryness, thereby breaking the vicious cycle of pruritus, calming agitation, improving sleep, and reducing recurrences. In summary, this TCM therapy offers both a robust theoretical framework and an effective, patient-centered strategy for comprehensive AD management, underscoring the critical connection between mental-emotional balance and skin health. Consequently, it is essential that future research focuses on high-level evidence and mechanistic insights to validate and translate this approach into global practice.

Neurological management constitutes one of the core components of the critical care medicine diagnostic and therapeutic system, permeating the entire trajectory of critically ill patient care. It primarily centers on three pivotal objectives: the optimization of analgesia and sedation, the prevention and treatment of delirium, and the facilitation of awakening in patients with consciousness disorders. With the deepening of research into acupuncture’s mechanisms of action and the accumulation of clinical evidence, its unique value in the neurological management of critically ill patients has become increasingly prominent, emerging as a key direction for the integration of traditional medicine and modern critical care medicine. This article systematically synthesizes findings from recent animal experiments and clinical studies, summarizing acupuncture’s application value in assisting analgesia and sedation, ameliorating delirium, and promoting consciousness recovery from three dimensions—mechanism of action, clinical evidence, and application standards. In doing so, it aims to provide theoretical and practical support for constructing a novel integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine paradigm for the neurological management of critically ill patients.