Artificial intelligence meets traditional Chinese medicine: a bridge to opening the magic box of sphygmopalpation for pulse pattern recognition

<title/> Artificial intelligence (AI) aims to mimic human cognitive functions and execute intellectual activities like that performed by humans dealing with an uncertain environment. The rapid development of AI technology provides powerful tools to analyze massive amounts of data, facilitating physicians to make better clinical decisions or even replace human judgment in healthcare. Advanced AI technology also creates novel opportunities for exploring the scientific basis of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and developing the standardization and digitization of TCM pulse diagnostic methodology. In the present study, we review and discuss the potential application of AI technology in TCM pulse diagnosis. The major contents include the following aspects: (1) a brief introduction of the general concepts and knowledge of TCM pulse diagnosis or palpation, (2) landmark developments in AI technology and the applications of common AI deep learning algorithms in medical practice, (3) the current progress of AI technology in TCM pulse diagnosis, (4) challenges and perspectives of AI technology in TCM pulse diagnosis. In conclusion, the pairing of TCM with modern AI technology will bring novel insights into understanding the scientific principles underlying TCM pulse diagnosis and creating opportunities for the development of AI deep learning technology for the standardization and digitalization of TCM pulse diagnosis.