Development of a Chinese herb-drug interaction database: insight into literature, high throughput screening and applications
This was the first kick-off meeting at Western Sydney University, and is a collaboration with UnityHealth Pty Ltd. on an industry-focused PhD project aimed at addressing key challenges in the Health research sector.
The project, is titled “Development of a Chinese herb-drug interaction database: insight into literature, high throughput screening and applications,” focuses on providing clinicians with evidence-based insights on potential interactions of traditional Chinese and prescription medicines to be delivered via the Integrative Medicine Gateway (IMgateway). It seeks to generate an advanced digital tool for health care and service in integrative medicine, thereby improving health outcomes and addressing the government’s science and research priorities
Leveraging the Western Sydney University’s NICM Health Research Institute renowned expertise in herbal medicine pharmacology and UnityHealth’s industry leadership in the digital platform of integrative healthcare, this project epitomises a collaborative approach that bridges the gap between academia and industry.
“The ultimate goal of this database is to support patients in self-care and improve the therapeutic relationship they have with their healthcare providers. We highly value our collaboration with the team at NCIM HRI and Western Sydney University and are very grateful to the National Industry PhD Program for their contribution to this project” Diana Edwards.
Dr Xian Zhou states “by delving into evidence-based insights on potential interactions between Chinese herbal medicines and prescription medications, our research sheds light on a crucial yet understudied aspect of integrative healthcare. Recognizing the common concurrent use of both types of treatments, our work aims to provide invaluable knowledge for healthcare practitioners and patients alike, ensuring safer and more effective therapeutic outcomes”.
The student Faiza Azhar says: “I am absolutely thrilled to begin this project at Western Sydney University. I can’t wait to indulge myself in this project, expand my knowledge and make a meaningful contribution. I believe that it’s going to be an incredible journey filled with growth, learning and new experiences. I am looking forward to it.”
Through the provision of evidence-based information, healthcare professionals and consumers will have the tools to more effectively assess any adverse drug reactions which will lead to better health outcomes for Australians. We wish the team good luck in their project.
Thanks to Adnan Syed Muhammad for all the work you do in the background.