Since 1971

channel research in China has entered a new stage

in which investigations mainly centered on the phenomena of channels.Having reviewed the rich data accumulated

the author attempts to give a brief summarization on the major achievements and basic experiences in channel research in that period.The major achievements abtained are listed as follows: 1.Confirmation of the existence of the phenomena of channels; 2.Discovering the latent propagated sensation along channels; 3.A marked increase of the incidence and the extent of the distinctive- ness of the propagated sensation along channels(PSC)through exciting or evoking PSC; 4.A thorough observation on the special characteristics of PSC; 5.Discovering and recording some functional responses along the channel course during the advance of PSC; 6.Discovering and studying on the various kinds of exanthema and dermatosis; 7.Confirmation of the close relationship between the therapeutic effect of acupuncture and PSC. The above-mentioned findings indicate the following: 1.The phenomena of channels surely exist and a particular channel track over the body surface can be followed.Its course is keeping with the course of channels described in traditional Chinese medicine.Thus

the most cardinal point of the theory of channels is scientifically proved. 2.The primary characteristics of PSC demonstrate that there is a special feature of following the channels in the regulation of the functional activities in human.This is a new problem worthy of serious consideration. 3.The therapeutic effect of acupuncture is closely related to PSC and can be improved by the method of exciting PSC and making it travel to the affected site. It is evident that the descriptions on the theory of channels in the lite- ratures of traditional Chinese medicine are made on the scientific basis.It includes some important points which had not yet been recongnized in the western medicine and should be earnestly studied

inherited and developed.