Investigating Qi-Centered Interventions for Neurodegenerative Disorders: Trends in Patents and Academic Literature

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study explored the intersection of environmental stressors—such as pollutants and toxins—with mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Mitochondrial dysfunction, exacerbated by environmental factors, plays a significant role in the progression of these diseases. The study investigates the potential of Qi (氣)-based therapeutic interventions by analyzing global trends in patent filings and academic literature. In traditional East Asian medicine, Qi is considered a vital force that regulates bodily balance and vitality. Recent interdisciplinary research has begun to integrate this concept with modern mitochondrial biology, suggesting that Qi correlates with bioenergetic processes —particularly those involving the mitochondria, which are responsible for cellular energy production and regulation of oxidative stress. This study highlights how traditional medicinal substances such as ginseng, licorice, and angelica can enhance mitochondrial function and potentially slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Patent analysis reveals that South Korea is at the forefront of research on Qi-based treatments, with a marked increase in patent filings in recent years. These findings support the hypothesis that Qi-based therapies, through their modulation of mitochondrial function, may offer significant complementary or integrative approaches for treating neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those induced by environmental stressors. Further research is necessary to understand the mechanism by which Qi influences mitochondrial function in the context of environmental factors, to optimize these therapies for clinical application.