[Research ideas and methods of animal models combining disease with syndrome from "two-hit" theory]

This study explores the research ideas and methods for establishing the animal models combining disease with syndrome from the "two-hit" theory. Such animal models hold importance in TCM research as they not only replicate the pathological processes of diseases but also embody the characteristics of TCM syndromes. These models provide a scientific basis for the development of TCM formulas and novel drugs. The "two-hit" theory simulates the multi-stage and multi-factorial nature of diseases through the synergistic effects of primary and secondary hits, compensating for the limitations of single-factor models and authentically reflecting the pathological and syndrome-specific characteristics of diseases. This article analyzes the advantages of the "two-hit" theory and elucidates its value in uncovering the complex mechanisms of disease onset, identifying new therapeutic targets, promoting personalized medicine, and enhancing the clinical translatability of animal models. Additionally, the article discusses the specific applications of this theory in constructing animal models combining disease with syndrome that align with TCM principles. These applications include the selection of stimuli, the analysis of pathophysiological congruence, and the establishment of objective evaluation methods. The "two-hit" theory introduces new research ideas and methods for the animal models combining disease with syndrome in TCM, facilitating the integration of TCM and western medicine. However, it also faces challenges such as the selection of stimuli and ethical considerations.