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Zhao M, Zhou M, Lu P, Wang Y, Zeng R, Liu L, Zhu S, Kong L, Zhang J. Local anesthetic delivery systems for the management of postoperative pain. Acta Biomater 2024; 181:1-18. [PMID: 38679404 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Postoperative pain (POP) is a major clinical challenge. Local anesthetics (LAs), including amide-type LAs, ester-type LAs, and other potential ion-channel blockers, are emerging as drugs for POP management because of their effectiveness and affordability. However, LAs typically exhibit short durations of action and prolonging the duration by increasing their dosage or concentration may increase the risk of motor block or systemic local anesthetic toxicity. In addition, techniques using LAs, such as intrathecal infusion, require professional operation and are prone to catheter displacement, dislodgement, infection, and nerve damage. With the development of materials science and nanotechnology, various LAs delivery systems have been developed to compensate for these disadvantages. Numerous delivery systems have been designed to continuously release a safe dose in a single administration to ensure minimal systemic toxicity and prolong pain relief. LAs delivery systems can also be designed to control the duration and intensity of analgesia according to changes in the external trigger conditions, achieve on-demand analgesia, and significantly improve pain relief and patient satisfaction. In this review, we summarize POP pathways, animal models and methods for POP testing, and highlight LAs delivery systems for POP management. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Postoperative pain (POP) is a major clinical challenge. Local anesthetics (LAs) are emerging as drugs for POP management because of their effectiveness and affordability. However, they exhibit short durations and toxicity. Various LAs delivery systems have been developed to compensate for these disadvantages. They have been designed to continuously release a safe dose in a single administration to ensure minimal toxicity and prolong pain relief. LAs delivery systems can also be designed to control the duration and intensity of analgesia to achieve on-demand analgesia, and significantly improve pain relief and patient satisfaction. In this paper, we summarize POP pathways, animal models, and methods for POP testing and highlight LAs delivery systems for POP management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxu Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China; Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Mengni Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Pengcheng Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Rong Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Lifang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Shasha Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Lingsuo Kong
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
| | - Jiqian Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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Huo M, Zhang Q, Si Y, Zhang Y, Chang H, Zhou M, Zhang D, Fang Y. The role of purinergic signaling in acupuncture-mediated relief of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Purinergic Signal 2024:10.1007/s11302-024-09985-y. [PMID: 38305986 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-024-09985-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is a traditional medicinal practice in China that has been increasingly recognized in other countries in recent decades. Notably, several reports have demonstrated that acupuncture can effectively aid in pain management. However, the analgesic mechanisms through which acupuncture provides such benefits remain poorly understood. Purinergic signaling, which is mediated by purine nucleotides and purinergic receptors, has been proposed to play a central role in acupuncture analgesia. On the one hand, acupuncture affects the transmission of nociception by increasing adenosine triphosphate dephosphorylation and thereby decreasing downstream P2X3, P2X4, and P2X7 receptors signaling activity, regulating the levels of inflammatory factors, neurotrophic factors, and synapsin I. On the other hand, acupuncture exerts analgesic effects by promoting the production of adenosine, enhancing the expression of downstream adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, and regulating downstream inflammatory factors or synaptic plasticity. Together, this systematic overview of the field provides a sound, evidence-based foundation for future research focused on the application of acupuncture as a means of relieving pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Huo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxiang Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Si
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Youlin Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongen Chang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Zhou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Engineering of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
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Wang MJ, Jing XY, Wang YZ, Yang BR, Lu Q, Hu H, Kang L. Exercise, Spinal Microglia and Neuropathic Pain: Potential Molecular Mechanisms. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:29-37. [PMID: 37725293 PMCID: PMC10776684 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-04025-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
As one of the most common neuropathic disorders, neuropathic pain often has a negative impact on patients with persistent pain, mood disorders and sleep disturbances. Currently, neuropathic pain is not treated with any specific drug, instead, drugs for other diseases are used as replacements in clinics, but most have adverse effects. In recent years, the role of spinal cord microglia in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain has been widely recognized, and they are being explored as potential therapeutic targets. Spinal microglia are known to be involved in the pathogenic mechanisms of neuropathic pain through purine signaling, fractalkine signaling, and p38 MAPK signaling. Exercise is a safe and effective treatment, and numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in improving neurological symptoms. Nevertheless, it remains unclear what the exact molecular mechanism is. This review summarized the specific molecular mechanisms of exercise in alleviating neuropathic pain by mediating the activity of spinal microglia and maintaining the phenotypic homeostasis of spinal microglia through purine signaling, fractalkine signaling and p38 MAPK signaling. In addition, it has been proposed that different intensities and types of exercise affect the regulation of the above-mentioned signaling pathways differently, providing a theoretical basis for the improvement of neuropathic pain through exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jia Wang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sports University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xin-Yu Jing
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation, Sichuan Jinxin Women and Children Hospital, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yao-Zheng Wang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sports University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Bi-Ru Yang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sports University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qu Lu
- School of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sports University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Liang Kang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sports University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Liu N, Zhang GX, Zhu CH, Lan XB, Tian MM, Zheng P, Peng XD, Li YX, Yu JQ. Antinociceptive and neuroprotective effect of echinacoside on peripheral neuropathic pain in mice through inhibiting P2X7R/FKN/CX3CR1 pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115675. [PMID: 37812887 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinically, neuropathic pain treatment remains a challenging issue because the major therapy, centred around pharmacological intervention, is not satisfactory enough to patient by reason of low effectiveness and more adverse reaction. Therefore, it is still necessary to find more effective and safe therapy to ameliorate neuropathic pain. The purpose of this study was to explore the antinociceptive effect of Echinacoside (ECH), an active compound of Cistanche deserticola Ma, on peripheral neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) in mice, and to demonstrate its potential mechanism in vivo and vitro. In the present study, results showed that intraperitoneal administration of ECH (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) could alleviate mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia via behavioural test. Moreover, the structure and function of injured sciatic nerve by CCI were taken a turn for the better to a certain extent after ECH treatment using histopathological and electrophysiological test. Furthermore, ECH repressed the expression of the P2X7R and FKN and reduced the expression and release of the IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. Besides, ECH could decrease Ca2+ influx and Cats efflux and inhibit phosphorylation of p38MAPK. To sum up, the present study illustrated that ECH could alleviate peripheral neuropathic pain by inhibiting microglia overactivation and inflammation through P2X7R/FKN/CX3CR1 signalling pathway in spinal cord. This study would provide a new perspective and strategy for the pharmacological treatment on neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Drug Development and Generic Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Guo-Xin Zhang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Hao Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lan
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Drug Development and Generic Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Miao-Miao Tian
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Drug Development and Generic Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ping Zheng
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Drug Development and Generic Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Peng
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Drug Development and Generic Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Li
- School of Nursing, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
| | - Jian-Qiang Yu
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Drug Development and Generic Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
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Ding YY, Xu F, Wang YF, Han LL, Huang SQ, Zhao S, Ma LL, Zhang TH, Zhao WJ, Chen XD. Electroacupuncture alleviates postoperative pain through inhibiting neuroinflammation via stimulator of interferon genes/type-1 interferon pathway. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 21:496-508. [PMID: 37517892 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This work explores the impact of electroacupuncture (EA) on acute postoperative pain (APP) and the role of stimulator of interferon genes/type-1 interferon (STING/IFN-1) signaling pathway modulation in the analgesic effect of EA in APP rats. METHODS The APP rat model was initiated through abdominal surgery and the animals received two 30 min sessions of EA at bilateral ST36 (Zusanli) and SP6 (Sanyinjiao) acupoints. Mechanical, thermal and cold sensitivity tests were performed to measure the pain threshold, and electroencephalograms were recorded in the primary somatosensory cortex to identify the effects of EA treatment on APP. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to examine the expression and distribution of proteins in the STING/IFN-1 pathway as well as neuroinflammation. A STING inhibitor (C-176) was administered intrathecally to verify its role in EA. RESULTS APP rats displayed mechanical and thermal hypersensitivities compared to the control group (P < 0.05). APP significantly reduced the amplitude of θ, α and γ oscillations compared to their baseline values (P < 0.05). Interestingly, expression levels of proteins in the STING/IFN-1 pathway were downregulated after inducing APP (P < 0.05). Further, APP increased pro-inflammatory factors, including interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase, and downregulated anti-inflammatory factors, including interleukin-10 and arginase-1 (P < 0.05). EA effectively attenuated APP-induced painful hypersensitivities (P < 0.05) and restored the θ, α and γ power in APP rats (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, EA distinctly activated the STING/IFN-1 pathway and mitigated the neuroinflammatory response (P < 0.05). Furthermore, STING/IFN-1 was predominantly expressed in isolectin-B4- or calcitonin-gene-related-peptide-labeled dorsal root ganglion neurons and superficial laminae of the spinal dorsal horn. Inhibition of the STING/IFN-1 pathway by intrathecal injection of C-176 weakened the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of EA on APP (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION EA can generate robust analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on APP, and these effects may be linked to activating the STING/IFN-1 pathway, suggesting that STING/IFN-1 may be a target for relieving APP. Please cite this article as: Ding YY, Xu F, Wang YF, Han LL, Huang SQ, Zhao S, Ma LL, Zhang TH, Zhao WJ, Chen XD. Electroacupuncture alleviates postoperative pain through inhibiting neuroinflammation via stimulator of interferon genes/type-1 interferon pathway. J Integr Med. 2023; 21(5): 496-508.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Ya-Feng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lin-Lin Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Shi-Qian Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lu-Lin Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Tian-Hao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wen-Jing Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China.
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Zheng Y, Pan L, He J, Yan J, Xia Y, Lin C, Chen X, Zhao Q, Zeng Q, Julikezi M, Lin X, Li K, Bu Y, Fan Y, Yao L, Zhang M, Chen Y. Electroacupuncture-modulated extracellular ATP levels in prefrontal cortex ameliorated depressive-like behavior of maternal separation rats. Behav Brain Res 2023; 452:114548. [PMID: 37355234 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Maternal separation (MS) is a type of early-life stress that has been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, especially depression. Increasing evidence indicates that the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is involved in the pathophysiology of depression. To investigate the potential relationship between ATP in PFC and antidepressant effects of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment, we assessed genes involved in ATP biosynthesis as well as the extracellular ATP levels in a rat model exposed to neonatal MS. Our results demonstrated that reduced expression of ABCG2 (an ATP-binding cassette protein) and ATP levels in the PFC of depressive-like rats exposed to MS can be attenuated by EA stimulus at the Baihui (GV20) and Yintang (GV29) acupoints. Moreover, the antidepressant effect of EA treatment was blocked by administration of suramin, a broad purinergic P2 receptor antagonist. Together, these results suggested that electroacupuncture may be able to modulate extracellular ATP levels in the PFC of depressive-like MS rats, potentially contributing to its antidepressant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjia Zheng
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lingyun Pan
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiang He
- Acupuncture and moxibustion and tuina college, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinglan Yan
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yucen Xia
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chuqi Lin
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuyun Chen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianyi Zhao
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiuxiang Zeng
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Maidinaimu Julikezi
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Lin
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaixin Li
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yu Bu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yujing Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Yao
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yongjun Chen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China; Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, China.
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Fuller AM, Bharde S, Sikandar S. The mechanisms and management of persistent postsurgical pain. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1154597. [PMID: 37484030 PMCID: PMC10357043 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1154597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
An estimated 10%-50% of patients undergoing a surgical intervention will develop persistent postsurgical pain (PPP) lasting more than 3 months despite adequate acute pain management and the availability of minimally invasive procedures. The link between early and late pain outcomes for surgical procedures remains unclear-some patients improve while others develop persistent pain. The elective nature of a surgical procedure offers a unique opportunity for prophylactic or early intervention to prevent the development of PPP and improve our understanding of its associated risk factors, such as pre-operative anxiety and the duration of severe acute postoperative pain. Current perioperative pain management strategies often include opioids, but long-term consumption can lead to tolerance, addiction, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, and death. Pre-clinical models provide the opportunity to dissect mechanisms underpinning the transition from acute to chronic, or persistent, postsurgical pain. This review highlights putative mechanisms of PPP, including sensitisation of peripheral sensory neurons, neuroplasticity in the central nervous system and nociceptive signalling along the neuro-immune axis.
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Qi Y, Liu L, Liang D, Tang S, Yu X, Ye H, Chen N. Bujing Yishi tablets alleviate photoreceptor cells death via the P2X7R/CX3CL1/CX3CR1 pathway in Retinitis Pigmentosa rats. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 115:154828. [PMID: 37116386 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of progressive photoreceptor degenerative diseases. The activation of microglia has been reported to play an important role in the photoreceptor degeneration in RP retinal. Bujing Yishi tablets (BJYS), a Chinese herbal medicine, has been used to treat retinal diseases in China with desirable effect in improving visual function. However, the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of BJYS treatment in RP are not yet fully understood. PURPOSE Based on the preliminary experiments, this study aimed to investigate the therapeutic mechanism involved in treating N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea (MNU)-induced retinal degeneration of RP with BJYS. METHODS To explore the efficacy of BJYS, a rat experimental RP model was established through intraperitoneal injection of MNU (50 mg/kg). Two experiment was carried out. After the treatment, we conducted H&E, TUNEL, retinal cytokine levels and IBA-1 expression in microglia to confirm the impact on RP model. The specific mechanism of action of BJYS tablet was assessed by western blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and immunofluorescence to determine the mRNA and protein expression levels involved in clarifying the effectiveness of BJYS exerted through P2X7R/CX3CL1/CX3CR1 pathway. RESULTS Significant alleviation of retinal morphological structure and photoreceptor degeneration by BJYS treatment was observed in the retinal of MNU-induced RP rats, BJYS prevented the reduction of ONL thickness and decreased the level of apoptotic cells in ONL. It also inhibited microglia overactivation and reduced retinal levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α. In addition, BJYS decreased the protein expression and mRNA expression of P2X7, CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 and reduced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. CONCLUSION In summary, this study suggested that BJYS treatment could alleviate photoreceptors degeneration of RP by inhibiting microglia overactivation and inflammation through the P2X7R/CX3CL1/CX3CR1 pathway. These effects suggest that BJYS tablets may serve as a promising oral therapeutic agent for RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Postdoctoral Research Station of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Liu
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Liang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiyun Tang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hejiang Ye
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China..
| | - Nianzhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Spinal cord astrocyte P2X7Rs mediate the inhibitory effect of electroacupuncture on visceral hypersensitivity of rat with irritable bowel syndrome. Purinergic Signal 2023; 19:43-53. [PMID: 35389158 PMCID: PMC9984627 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09830-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explored the role of P2X7 receptors in spinal cord astrocytes in the electroacupuncture-induced inhibition of visceral hypersensitivity (VH) in rats with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Visceral hypersensitivity of IBS was intracolonically induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). Visceromotor responses to colorectal distension (CRD-20,40,60,80 mmHg) and abdominal withdrawal reflex scoring (AWRs) were recorded after electroacupuncture at bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints to evaluate the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture on visceral pain in rats with IBS. Fluorocitric acid (FCA), an astrocyte activity inhibitor, was injected intrathecally before electroacupuncture intervention and AWRs were recorded. Western blot and real-time qPCR were used to detect the expression of NMDA and P2X7 receptor to observe the regulation effect of electroacupuncture on NMDA receptor in the spinal cord of rats with visceral hypersensitivity. Intrathecal injection of P2X7 agonist or antagonist was administered before electroacupuncture treatment. To observe the effect of P2X7 receptor in spinal astrocytes on the inhibition of visceral hyperalgesia by electroacupuncture, the changes of AWR score, NMDA receptor in the spinal cord, and GFAP expression in astrocytes were detected. Inflammation of the colon had basically subsided at day 21 post-TNBS; persistent visceral hypersensitivity could be suppressed by electroacupuncture. This analgesic effect could be inhibited by FCA. The analgesic effect, downregulation of NMDA receptor NR1 subunit, and P2X7 protein of electroacupuncture were all reversed by FCA. P2X7 receptor antagonist A740003 can cooperate with EA to carry out analgesic effect in rats with visceral pain and downregulate the expression of NR1, NR2B, and GFAP in spinal dorsal horn. However, the P2X7 receptor agonist BzATP could partially reverse the analgesic effect of EA, inhibiting the downregulatory effect of EA on the expression of NR1, NR2B, and GFAP. These results indicate that EA may downregulate the expression of the NMDA receptor by inhibiting the P2X7 receptor in the spinal cord, thereby inhibiting spinal cord sensitization in IBS rats with visceral pain, in which astrocytes are an important medium.
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10
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Chen Y, Li D, Li N, Loh P, Guo Y, Hu X, Zhang J, Dou B, Wang L, Yang C, Guo T, Chen S, Liu Z, Chen B, Chen Z. Role of nerve signal transduction and neuroimmune crosstalk in mediating the analgesic effects of acupuncture for neuropathic pain. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1093849. [PMID: 36756246 PMCID: PMC9899820 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1093849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurogenic pain rises because of nervous system damage or dysfunction and is the most difficult to treat among other pathological pains. Acupuncture has been reported as a great treatment option for neurogenic pain owing to its unlimited advantages. However, previous studies on the analgesic effects of acupuncture for NP were scattered and did not form a whole. In this study, we first comprehensively review the relevant basic articles on acupuncture for NP published in the last 5 years and summarize the analgesic mechanisms of acupuncture in terms of nerve signaling, neuro-immune crosstalk, and metabolic and oxidative stress regulation. Acupuncture inhibits the upstream excitatory system and suppresses neuronal transmission efficiency by downregulating glutamate, NMDA receptors, P2XR, SP, CGRP, and other neurotransmitters and receptors in the spinal cord, as well as plasma channels such as TRPV1, HCN. It can also activate the downstream pain inhibitory pathway by upregulating opioid peptide (β-endorphin), MOR receptors, GABA and GABA receptors, bi-directional regulating 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and its receptors (upregulate 5-HT 1A and downregulate 5-HT7R) and stimulating hypothalamic appetite-modifying neurons. Moreover, neuroinflammation in pain can be inhibited by acupuncture through inhibiting JAK2/STAT3, PI3K/mTOR pathways, down regulating chemokine receptor CX3CR1 on microglia and up regulating adenosine receptor A1Rs on astrocytes, inhibiting the activation of glia and reducing TNF-α and other inflammatory substances. Acupuncture also inhibits neuronal glucose metabolism by downregulating mPFC's GLUT-3 and promotes metabolic alterations of the brain, thus exerting an analgesic effect. In conclusion, the regulation of nerve signal transduction and neuroimmune crosstalk at the peripheral and central levels mediates the analgesic effects of acupuncture for neuropathic pain in an integrated manner. These findings provide a reliable basis for better clinical application of acupuncture in the management of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Dan Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ningcen Li
- Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - PeiYong Loh
- School of International Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiyou Hu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingyu Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Lifen Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Chaobo Yang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuangli Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,*Correspondence: Zelin Chen ✉
| | - Zelin Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Bo Chen ✉
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11
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Inoue K. Potential significance of CX3CR1 dynamics in stress resilience against neuronal disorders. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:2153-2156. [PMID: 35259822 PMCID: PMC9083172 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.335831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have implicated inflammatory responses in the central nervous system in a variety of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, and the understanding and control of immunological responses could be a major factor of future therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders. Microglia, derived from myelogenous cells, respond to a number of stimuli and make immune responses, resulting in a prominent role as cells that act on inflammation in the central nervous system. Fractalkine (FKN or CX3CL1) signaling is an important factor that influences the inflammatory response of microglia. The receptor for FKN, CX3CR1, is usually expressed in microglia in the brain, and therefore the inflammatory response of microglia is modified by FKN. Reportedly, FKN often suppresses inflammatory responses in microglia and activation of its receptor may be effective in the treatment of inflammatory neurological disorders. However, it has also been suggested that inflammatory responses facilitated by FKN signaling aggravate neurological disorders. Thus, further studies are still required to resolve the conflicting interpretation of the protective or deleterious contribution of microglial FKN signaling. Yet notably, regulation of FKN signaling has recently been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of human diseases, although not neurological diseases. In addition, a CX3CR1 inhibitor has been developed and successfully tested in animal models, and it is expected to be in human clinical trials in the future. In this review, I describe the potential therapeutic consideration of microglial CX3CR1 dynamics through altered FKN signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Inoue
- Department of Integrative Anatomy, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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12
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Electroacupuncture Alleviates Hyperalgesia by Regulating CB1 Receptor of Spinal Cord in Incisional Neck Pain Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5880690. [PMID: 34961820 PMCID: PMC8710158 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5880690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture therapy is effective in relieving postoperative pain of neck surgery, but its underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study, in the incisional neck pain rat model, was designed to explore whether the endocannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) in the cervical spinal cord is involved in the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) or not.The incisional neck pain model was established by making a longitudinal incision and applied EA treatment of Futu (LI18), Hegu-Neiguan (LI4-PC6), or Zusanli-Yanglingquan (ST36-GB34) for pain relief. The results showed that EA LI18 and EA LI4-PC6 effectively relieve allodynia caused by neck incision, which was obviously better than EA ST34-GB34 (P < 0.05). After EA, the expression levels of CB1 mRNA at 4h in the EALI18 group, and 24 and 48h in both EALI18 and EALI4-PC6 groups, and those of CB1 protein at 4, 24, and 48h in the EALI18 group, and the immunoactivity of CB1 in both EALI18 and EALI4-PC6 groups at 4h were significantly upregulated in contrast to those of the model group (P < 0.05). EA of either acupoint group had no effect on the expression of CB2 protein (P > 0.05). Moreover, the antinociceptive effect of EA was reversed by AM251 (CB1 antagonist). Immunofluorescence dual staining showed that CB1 expressed in astrocytes in the superficial layer (laminae I and II) of dorsal horns of the cervical spinal cord. Therefore, the findings of this study revealed that upregulation of CB1 expression in the cervical spinal cord contributes to the analgesic effect of EA in incisional neck pain rats. The CB1 receptor expresses on astrocytes.
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Cai X, Yao Y, Teng F, Li Y, Wu L, Yan W, Lin N. The role of P2X7 receptor in infection and metabolism: Based on inflammation and immunity. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108297. [PMID: 34717202 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is a ligand-gated receptor belonging to the P2 receptor family. It is distributed in various tissues of the human body and is involved in regulating the physiological functions of tissues and cells to affect the occurrence and development of diseases. Unlike all other P2 receptors, the P2X7 receptor is mainly expressed in immune cells and can be activated not only by extracellular nucleotides but also by non-nucleotide substances which act as positive allosteric modulators. In this review, we comprehensively describe the role of the P2X7 receptor in infection and metabolism based on its role as an important regulator of inflammation and immunity, and briefly introduce the structure and general function of the P2X7 receptor. These provide a clear knowledge framework for the study of the P2X7 receptor in human health. Targeting the P2X7 receptor may be an effective method for the treatment of inflammatory and immune diseases. And its role in microbial infection and metabolism may be the main direction for in-depth research on the P2X7 receptor in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Cai
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Cancer Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Yao Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Fei Teng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yangling Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Cancer Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Linwen Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Cancer Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Cancer Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China.
| | - Nengming Lin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Cancer Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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14
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Dou B, Li Y, Ma J, Xu Z, Fan W, Tian L, Chen Z, Li N, Gong Y, Lyu Z, Fang Y, Liu Y, Xu Y, Wang S, Chen B, Guo Y, Guo Y, Lin X. Role of Neuroimmune Crosstalk in Mediating the Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects of Acupuncture on Inflammatory Pain. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:695670. [PMID: 34408622 PMCID: PMC8366064 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.695670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory pain is caused by peripheral tissue injury and inflammation. Inflammation leads to peripheral sensitization, which may further cause central sensitization, resulting in chronic pain and progressive functional disability. Neuroimmune crosstalk plays an essential role in the development and maintenance of inflammatory pain. Studies in recent years have shown that acupuncture can exert anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects by regulating peripheral (i.e., involving local acupoints and inflamed regions) and central neuroimmune interactions. At the local acupoints, acupuncture can activate the TRPV1 and TRPV2 channels of mast cells, thereby promoting degranulation and the release of histamine, adenosine, and other immune mediators, which interact with receptors on nerve endings and initiate neuroimmune regulation. At sites of inflammation, acupuncture enables the recruitment of immune cells, causing the release of opioid peptides, while also exerting direct analgesic effects via nerve endings. Furthermore, acupuncture promotes the balance of immune cells and regulates the release of inflammatory factors, thereby reducing the stimulation of nociceptive receptors in peripheral organs. Acupuncture also alleviates peripheral neurogenic inflammation by inhibiting the release of substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide from the dorsal root ganglia. At the central nervous system level, acupuncture inhibits the crosstalk between glial cells and neurons by inhibiting the p38 MAPK, ERK, and JNK signaling pathways and regulating the release of inflammatory mediators. It also reduces the excitability of the pain pathway by reducing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters and promoting the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters from neurons and glial cells. In conclusion, the regulation of neuroimmune crosstalk at the peripheral and central levels mediates the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of acupuncture on inflammatory pain in an integrated manner. These findings provide novel insights enabling the clinical application of acupuncture in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanan Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Wen Fan
- Department of Rehabilitation Physical Therapy Course, Faculty of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka, Japan
| | - Lixin Tian
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhihan Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ningcen Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yinan Gong
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongxi Lyu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shenjun Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongming Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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15
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Jin L, Han C. Effects of acupuncture on clinical outcome and helper T cell distribution and abundance in patients with convalescent ischemic stroke. Am J Transl Res 2021; 13:8118-8125. [PMID: 34377295 PMCID: PMC8340220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effects of acupuncture on clinical outcomes and helper T cell levels in patients with convalescent ischemic stroke. METHODS One hundred and thirty-six patients with cerebral ischemic stroke were selected for this prospective study. Patients in the control group were treated with routine therapy, and patients in the observation group were treated with acupuncture for 30 minutes once a day for 14 days plus the treatment of the control group. The clinical efficacy, cognitive function, T cell subsets distribution and inflammatory factors of patients in both groups were recorded before and after treatment. RESULTS Total effectiveness rate of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, CD3+ cell percentage, CD4+ cell percentage and CD4+ cell percentage/CD8+ cell percentage of patients in both groups were significantly increased (P<0.05), while CD8+ cell percentage in both groups was significantly decreased (P<0.05). Compared to those in the control group, the overall response rate as well as CD3+ cell percentage, CD4+ cell percentage and CD4+/CD8+ of patients after treatment in the observation group were higher (P<0.001), while CD8+ cell percentage was lower (all P<0.001). Moreover, the improvement in inflammatory factors as well as scores of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in observation group were better than those of the control group (P<0.001) respectively. CONCLUSION Treatment of cerebral ischemic stroke by acupuncture can improve clinical outcome and cognitive function, which may be related to its regulation of immune response and reduction of inflammation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Jin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan University People’s Hospital of Hanchuan Hospital (People Avenue Hospital District)Xiaogan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Caiyan Han
- Department of Neurology, Wuhan University People’s Hospital of Hanchuan Hospital (People Avenue Hospital District)Xiaogan, Hubei Province, China
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Li J, Zhang Y, Illes P, Tang Y, Rubini P. Increasing Efficiency of Repetitive Electroacupuncture on Purine- and Acid-Induced Pain During a Three-Week Treatment Schedule. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:680198. [PMID: 34040538 PMCID: PMC8141797 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.680198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture (AP) is an important constituent of the therapeutic repertoire of traditional Chinese medicine and has been widely used to alleviate chronic painful conditions all over the world. We studied in rats the efficiency of electroacupuncture (EAP) applied to the Zusanli acupoint (ST36) as an analgesic treatment over a 3-week period of time on purine (α,β-methylene ATP, dibenzoyl-ATP)- and acid (pH 6.0 medium)-induced pain in the rat paw. The two ATP derivatives stimulated P2X3 and P2X7 receptors, respectively, while the slightly acidic medium stimulated the “acid-sensitive ion channel 3” (ASIC3). It was found that the P2X7 receptor and ASIC-mediated pain was counteracted by EAP with greater efficiency at the end than at the beginning of the treatment schedule, while the P2X3 receptor–mediated pain was not. Our findings have important clinical and theoretical consequences, among others, because they are difficult to reconcile with the assumption that AP is primarily due to the release of peripheral and central opioid peptides causing the well-known tolerance to their effects. In consequence, AP is a convenient therapeutic instrument to treat subacute and chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Peter Illes
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China.,International Collaborative Center on Big Science Plan for Purinergic Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China.,Rudolf Boehm Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Yong Tang
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China.,International Collaborative Center on Big Science Plan for Purinergic Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Patrizia Rubini
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China.,International Collaborative Center on Big Science Plan for Purinergic Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Medicine, Chengdu, China
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17
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Shen D, Zheng YW, Zhang D, Shen XY, Wang LN. Acupuncture modulates extracellular ATP levels in peripheral sensory nervous system during analgesia of ankle arthritis in rats. Purinergic Signal 2021; 17:411-424. [PMID: 33934245 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09777-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
As an ancient analgesia therapy, acupuncture has been practiced worldwide nowadays. A good understanding of its mechanisms will offer a promise for its rational and wider application. As the first station of pain sensation, peripheral sensory ganglia express pain-related P2X receptors that are involved in the acupuncture analgesia mechanisms transduction pathway. While the role of their endogenous ligand, extracellular ATP (eATP), remains less studied. This work attempted to clarify whether acupuncture modulated eATP levels in the peripheral sensory nerve system during its analgesia process. Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent acute inflammatory pain by injecting Complete Freund's Adjuvant in the unilateral ankle joint for 2 days. A twenty-minute acupuncture was applied to ipsilateral Zusanli acupoint. Thermal hyperalgesia and tactile allodynia were assessed on bilateral hind paws to evaluate the analgesic effect. eATP of bilateral isolated lumbar 4-5 dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and sciatic nerves were determined by luminescence assay. Nucleotidases NTPDase-2 and -3 in bilateral ganglia and sciatic nerves were measured by real-time PCR to explore eATP hydrolysis process. Our results revealed that acute inflammation induced bilateral thermal hyperalgesia and ipsilateral tactile allodynia, which were accompanied by increased eATP levels and higher mechano-sensitivity of bilateral DRGs and decreased eATP levels of bilateral sciatic nerves. Acupuncture exerted anti-nociception on bilateral hind paws, reversed the increased eATP and mechanosensitivity of bilateral DRGs, and restored the decreased eATP of bilateral sciatic nerves. NTPDase-2 and -3 in bilateral ganglia and sciatic nerves were inconsistently modulated during this period. These observations indicate that eATP metabolism of peripheral sensory nerve system was simultaneously regulated during acupuncture analgesia, which might open a new frontier for acupuncture research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shen
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, 800 Xiangyin Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Ya-Wen Zheng
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function (14DZ2260500), Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 201433, China
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xue-Yong Shen
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Shanghai Research Center for Acupuncture and Meridians, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Li-Na Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Shanghai Research Center for Acupuncture and Meridians, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Lv ZY, Yang YQ, Yin LM. Role of Purinergic Signaling in Acupuncture Therapeutics. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2021; 49:645-659. [PMID: 33641652 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x21500294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture is a therapeutic treatment that is well recognized in many countries. However, the initiation mechanisms of acupuncture are not well understood. Purinergic signaling has been considered a key signaling pathway in acupuncture in recent years. Acupuncture-induced ATP is mainly produced by mast cells and fibroblasts, and ATP is gradually hydrolyzed into adenosine. ATP and adenosine further participate in the process of acupuncture information transmission to the nervous and immune systems through specific purine receptors. Acupuncture initiates analgesia via the down-regulation of the expression of P2 receptors or up-regulation of the expression of adenosine A1 receptors on nerve fibers. ATP also promotes the proliferation of immune cells through P2 receptors and A3 receptors, causing inflammation. In contrast, adenosine activates A2 receptors, promotes the production and infiltration of immunosuppressive cells, and causes an anti-inflammatory response. In summary, we described the role of purinergic signaling as a general signaling pathway in the initiation of acupuncture and the influence of purinergic signaling on the neuroimmune network to lay the foundation for future systematic research on the mechanisms of acupuncture therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Ying Lv
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Research Institute of Acupuncture and Meridian, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China
| | - Yong-Qing Yang
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Research Institute of Acupuncture and Meridian, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China
| | - Lei-Miao Yin
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Research Institute of Acupuncture and Meridian, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China.,Shanghai Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Health Service, Shanghai 201203, P. R. China
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Fan W, Shendong F, Guangwei C, Huaijin C, She S, Qiangli W, Lina W, Xueyong S. Skin fibroblasts' alteration after Acupuncture on LI11 in Rabbits with bacteria endotoxin induced fever. ACUPUNCTURE ELECTRO 2021. [DOI: 10.3727/036012921x16112663844932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To study the mechanism of acupuncture manipulation (AM) based on the secretion function and morphological variation of fibroblasts in acupoint region.<br/> Methods: 40 rabbits were randomly divided to normal group (N), model group (M), needle retaining
group (A), and acupuncture manipulation group (AM), each group consist of 10 rabbits. The animal model of Rabbits with Bacterium Endotoxin Induced Fever (BEIF) was established by intravenous injection of bacterial endotoxin. Groups A and AM were treated with 'Qu Chi'(LI11) acupuncture after
modeling, and acupuncture manipulations were conducted in group AM. The serum heat factors IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α content were assayed conducted in group AM. The serum heat factors IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α content were assayed by Elisa after acupuncturet; the morphological
changes of fibroblasts in acupoint area were observed by Vimentin staining; the fibroblasts of subcutaneous connective tissue in acupoint area were isolated and cultured in vitro, and the contents of PEG2, NO and ATP in supernatant were assayed.<br/> Results: There was no significant
difference in fibroblasts cytomorphology among groups M, A, and N. Fibroblasts in group AM were stretched and aligned in almost one direction. Comparing with group N, the content of serum IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α was significantly higher in group M, along with higher NO and ATP content
in the cell culture supernant; Comparing with group M, content of IL-6 and TNF-α was lower in group A, content of serum IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α was higher in group AM, along with higher PEG2, NO and ATP content in both groups, while group AM demonstrated more significant changes
in the above indicators than group A.<br/> Conclusion: Acupuncture had therapeutic effects on BEIF rabbits, the application of acupuncture manipulation can further improve its therapeutic effects. The mechanism may be related to the influence on fibroblasts cytomorphology in
acupoint region and facilitation of fibroblasts-derived PEG2, NO, and ATP, which together promote the acupoint vitality.
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Lyu Z, Guo Y, Gong Y, Fan W, Dou B, Li N, Wang S, Xu Y, Liu Y, Chen B, Guo Y, Xu Z, Lin X. The Role of Neuroglial Crosstalk and Synaptic Plasticity-Mediated Central Sensitization in Acupuncture Analgesia. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:8881557. [PMID: 33531894 PMCID: PMC7834789 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8881557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although pain is regarded as a global public health priority, analgesic therapy remains a significant challenge. Pain is a hypersensitivity state caused by peripheral and central sensitization, with the latter considered the culprit for chronic pain. This study summarizes the pathogenesis of central sensitization from the perspective of neuroglial crosstalk and synaptic plasticity and underlines the related analgesic mechanisms of acupuncture. Central sensitization is modulated by the neurotransmitters and neuropeptides involved in the ascending excitatory pathway and the descending pain modulatory system. Acupuncture analgesia is associated with downregulating glutamate in the ascending excitatory pathway and upregulating opioids, 𝛾-aminobutyric acid, norepinephrine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine in the descending pain modulatory system. Furthermore, it is increasingly appreciated that neurotransmitters, cytokines, and chemokines are implicated in neuroglial crosstalk and associated plasticity, thus contributing to central sensitization. Acupuncture produces its analgesic action by inhibiting cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, and upregulating interleukin-10, as well as modulating chemokines and their receptors such as CX3CL1/CX3CR1, CXCL12/CXCR4, CCL2/CCR2, and CXCL1/CXCR2. These factors are regulated by acupuncture through the activation of multiple signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling (e.g., the p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinases, and c-Jun-N-terminal kinase pathways), which contribute to the activation of nociceptive neurons. However, the responses of chemokines to acupuncture vary among the types of pain models, acupuncture methods, and stimulation parameters. Thus, the exact mechanisms require future clarification. Taken together, inhibition of central sensitization modulated by neuroglial plasticity is central in acupuncture analgesia, providing a novel insight for the clinical application of acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxi Lyu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yongming Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yinan Gong
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Wen Fan
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka 5100293, Japan
| | - Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Ningcen Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Shenjun Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
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Tribute to Prof. Geoffrey Burnstock: his contribution to acupuncture. Purinergic Signal 2020; 17:71-77. [PMID: 33034832 PMCID: PMC7954886 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-020-09729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Wang JY, Bai WZ, Gao YH, Zhang JL, Duanmu CL, Liu JL. GABAergic Inhibition of Spinal Cord Dorsal Horns Contributes to Analgesic Effect of Electroacupuncture in Incisional Neck Pain Rats. J Pain Res 2020; 13:1629-1645. [PMID: 32694919 PMCID: PMC7340366 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s242330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acupuncture has shown to be effective in relieving post-surgical pain. Nonetheless, its underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expression of GABA, GABA-A receptor (R) and GABA-BR in the spinal cord dorsal horns (DHs), and the involved neural cells in rats with incisional neck pain. Materials and Methods Male SD rats were randomly divided into control, model, Futu (LI18), Hegu-Neiguan (LI4-PC6), and Zusanli-Yanglingquan (ST36-GB34) groups. The incisional neck pain model was established by making a longitudinal incision and repeated mechanical separation along the thyroid gland region. EA (2Hz/100Hz, 1mA) was applied to LI18, LI4-PC6, ST36-GB34 separately for 30min, once at 4, 24 and 48h after incision. The local thermal pain threshold (TPT) of the focus was measured and the expression of GABA, and GABAR proteins and mRNAs detected by immunofluorescence stain and quantitative RT-PCR, respectively. Results The analgesic effect of LI18 and LI4-PC6 was superior to that of ST36-GB34 in incisional neck pain rats. Moreover, the EA stimulation of LI18 or LI4-PC6 increased the expression of GABA and GABA-Aα2 and GABA-Aβ3, GABA-B1, and GABA-B2 mRNAs in spinal DHs 4h after surgery, while GABA-A and GABA-B antagonists inhibited the analgesic effect of LI18. Immunofluorescence double staining showed that GABA was expressed on astrocytes and neurons, and GABA-B expressed only on neurons. Conclusion EA of both LI18 and LI4-PC6 has a good analgesic effect in incisional neck pain rats, which is closely related to their effects in upregulating the expression of GABA and its receptors in spinal DHs. The effects of LI18 and LI4-PC6 EA are obviously better that those of ST36-GB34 EA, and GABA is expressed on neurons and astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ying Wang
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Wan-Zhu Bai
- Laboratory for Architecture of Acupoints, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Hui Gao
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Liang Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Lin Duanmu
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Ling Liu
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, People's Republic of China
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He JR, Yu SG, Tang Y, Illes P. Purinergic signaling as a basis of acupuncture-induced analgesia. Purinergic Signal 2020; 16:297-304. [PMID: 32577957 PMCID: PMC7524941 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-020-09708-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes experimental evidence indicating that purinergic mechanisms are causally involved in acupuncture (AP)-induced analgesia. Electroacupuncture (EAP) and manual AP release at pain-relevant acupoints ATP which may activate purinergic P2X receptors (Rs) especially of the P2X3 type situated at local sensory nerve endings (peripheral terminals of dorsal root ganglion [DRG] neurons); the central processes of these neurons are thought to inhibit via collaterals of ascending dorsal horn spinal cord neurons, pain-relevant pathways projecting to higher centers of the brain. In addition, during AP/EAP non-neuronal P2X4 and/or P2X7Rs localized at microglial cells of the CNS become activated at the spinal or supraspinal levels. In consequence, these microglia secrete bioactive compounds such as growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, reactive oxygen, and nitrogen species, which modulate the ascending neuronal pathways conducting painful stimuli. Alternatively, ATP released at acupoints by AP/EAP may be enzymatically degraded to adenosine, stimulating in loco presynaptic A1Rs exerting an inhibitory influence on the primary afferent fibers (the above mentioned pain-sensing peripheral terminals of DRG neurons) which thereby fail to conduct action potentials to the spinal cord dorsal horn. The net effect of the stimulation of P2X3, P2X4, P2X7, and A1Rs by the AP/EAP-induced release of ATP/adenosine at certain acupoints will be analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Rong He
- International Collaborative Centre on Big Science Plan for Purine Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Shu-Guang Yu
- International Collaborative Centre on Big Science Plan for Purine Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.,Acupuncture & Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Yong Tang
- International Collaborative Centre on Big Science Plan for Purine Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.,Acupuncture & Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Peter Illes
- International Collaborative Centre on Big Science Plan for Purine Signalling, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China. .,Rudolf Boehm Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Leipzig, 04107, Leipzig, Germany.
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Zhang Y, Huang L, Kozlov SA, Rubini P, Tang Y, Illes P. Acupuncture alleviates acid- and purine-induced pain in rodents. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 177:77-92. [PMID: 31444978 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Lumei Huang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Sergey A Kozlov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Patrizia Rubini
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Peter Illes
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China.,Rudolf-Boehm-Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Li Y, Fang Z, Gu N, Bai F, Ma Y, Dong H, Yang Q, Xiong L. Inhibition of chemokine CX3CL1 in spinal cord mediates the electroacupuncture-induced suppression of inflammatory pain. J Pain Res 2019; 12:2663-2672. [PMID: 31564958 PMCID: PMC6732508 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s205987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Chemokine CX3CL1 and its receptor CX3CR1 in the lumbar spinal cord play crucial roles in pain processing. Electroacupuncture (EA) is recognized as an alternative therapy in pain treatment due to its efficacy and safety. However, the analgesic mechanism of EA remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether EA suppressed complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced pain via modulating CX3CL1-CX3CR1 pathway. Materials and methods Inflammatory pain was induced by intraplantar injection of CFA to the left hind paw of Sprague-Dawley rats. EA with 2 Hz for 30 mins was given to bilateral Zusanli acupoints (ST36) on the first and third day after CFA injection. Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were tested with von Frey tests and Hargreaves tests, respectively. The expressions of CX3CL1, CX3CR1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were quantified with Western blots. The release of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were evaluated with ELISA. Recombinant CX3CL1 or control IgG were then injected through intrathecal catheters in the EA-treated CFA model rats. The behavioral tests, p38 MAPK activation and cytokine release were then evaluated. Results EA significantly inhibited inflammatory pain induced by CFA for 3 days. Meanwhile, EA downregulated the expression of CX3CL1 but not CX3CR1 in the lumbar spinal cord of the CFA rats. Besides, activation of p38 MAPK and the release of pain-related cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) were inhibited by EA. Intrathecal injection of CX3CL1 largely reversed the analgesic effect of EA treatment and re-activated p38 MAPK signaling, and resulted in pro-inflammatory cytokines increase in acupuncture-treated rats. Conclusion Our findings indicate that EA alleviates inflammatory pain via modulating CX3CL1 signaling in lumbar spinal cord, revealing a potential mechanism of anti-nociception of EA in inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongping Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuhai Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongyuan Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailong Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianzi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Lize Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
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Effect of Electroacupuncture at Different Acupoints on the Expression of NMDA Receptors in ACC and Colon in IBS Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:4213928. [PMID: 30854008 PMCID: PMC6377955 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4213928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at different acupoints on the expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA receptor ) and behaviors in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) rats. Methods Wistar rats were randomly divided into blank control group (blank group, n=10) and model preparation group (n=50); experimental rat model of IBS was established by the “neonatal maternal separation and acetic acid enema” combined with “colorectal distension stimulation” method. A total of 50 IBS rats were randomly assigned to five groups of 10 each: model group, Yintang (GV29) group, Neiguan (PC6) group, Tianshu (ST25) group, and Zusanli (ST36) group. Rats in four treatment groups, aged 9 weeks old, were treated with EA by HANS with a sparse-dense wave with a frequency of 2/100 Hz, current of 0.1-0.3mA, and 20 min/stimulation, every other day for a total of 5 sessions. After treatment, the abdominal visceral sensitivity was evaluated by abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR), and the psychological and emotional behavior of rats were evaluated by the open-field test (OFT). The expression of NMDA receptors in anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) was detected by Quantitative Real-time PCR, and the positive expression of NMDA receptors in colon was detected by immunohistochemistry. Results The IBS rat's abdomen is more sensitive and irritable; NR1, NR2A, and NR2B in ACC and NR1 and NR2B in colon of rats significantly increased in the model group versus the normal group (P<0.01) and were inhibited in all treatment groups (P<0.01, P<0.05). Additionally, NR2A and NR2B in ACC reduced more in GV29 group (P<0.01) than in other treatment groups (P all<0.05) compared with the model group. The expression of NR2B in colon was significantly inhibited in ST36 group (P<0.01) and inhibited in GV29 group and ST25 group (P all <0.05) compared with the model group. And the expression of NR2B in colon was more inhibited in ST36 group than in PC6 group (P<0.01). Conclusions EA at different acupoints could obviously relieve abdominal pain and abnormal behaviors in IBS rats in different degrees of effects. The effect of abdominal pain-relief, from greatest to least, is ST25, ST36, GV29, and PC6, while the effect of relieving abnormal behaviors caused by IBS, from greatest to least, is GV29, PC6, ST36, and ST25. There are significant differences in the expressions of NMDA receptors in ACC and colon among different acupoints. This difference should be related to the location distribution and indications of acupoints.
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Mechanisms of acute and chronic pain after surgery: update from findings in experimental animal models. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2019; 31:575-585. [PMID: 30028733 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000000646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Management of postoperative pain is still a major issue and relevant mechanisms need to be investigated. In preclinical research, substantial progress has been made, for example, by establishing specific rodent models of postoperative pain. By reviewing most recent preclinical studies in animals related to postoperative, incisional pain, we outline the currently available surgical-related pain models, discuss assessment methods for pain-relevant behavior and their shortcomings to reflect the clinical situation, delineate some novel clinical-relevant mechanisms for postoperative pain, and point toward future needs. RECENT FINDINGS Since the development of the first rodent model of postoperative, incisional pain almost 20 years ago, numerous variations and some procedure-specific models have been emerged including some conceivably relevant for investigating prolonged, chronic pain after surgery. Many mechanisms have been investigated by using these models; most recent studies focussed on endogenous descending inhibition and opioid-induced hyperalgesia. However, surgical models beyond the classical incision model have so far been used only in exceptional cases, and clinical relevant behavioral pain assays are still rarely utilized. SUMMARY Pathophysiological mechanisms of pain after surgery are increasingly discovered, but utilization of pain behavior assays are only sparsely able to reflect clinical-relevant aspects of acute and chronic postoperative pain in patients.
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Tang Y, Yin HY, Liu J, Rubini P, Illes P. P2X receptors and acupuncture analgesia. Brain Res Bull 2018; 151:144-152. [PMID: 30458249 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purinergic signaling has recently been suggested to constitute the cellular mechanism underlying acupuncture-induced analgesia (AA). By extending the original hypothesis on endogenous opioids being released during AA, Geoffrey Burnstock and Maiken Nedergaard supplied evidence for the involvement of purinoceptors (P2 and P1/A1 receptors) in the beneficial effects of AA. In view of certain pain states (e.g. neuropathic pain) which respond only poorly to therapy with standard analgesics, as well as with respect to the numerous unwanted effects of opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it is of great significance to search for alternative therapeutic options. Because clinical studies on AA yielded sometimes heterogeneous results, it is of eminent importance to relay on experiments carried out on laboratory animals, by evaluating the data with stringent statistical methods including comparison with a sufficient number of control groups. In this review, we summarize the state of the art situation with respect to the participation of P2 receptors in AA and try to forecast how the field is likely to move forward in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Tang
- Medical & Nursing School, Chengdu University, 610106 Chengdu, China; Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China.
| | - Hai-Yan Yin
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China
| | - Patrizia Rubini
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Leipzig, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Illes
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Leipzig, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China.
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Purines Change at Acupoints along the Pericardium Meridian in Healthy and Myocardial Ischemic Rats. Chin J Integr Med 2018; 25:285-291. [PMID: 30264268 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-018-2932-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify the purine concentrations of the acupoints along the pericardium and nonpericardium meridians under healthy and myocardial ischemia conditions to investigate the relationship between acupoint purine change and body functional status in rats. METHODS A total of 70 rats underwent an operation for myocardial ischemia, while 40 of them survived. They were randomly assigned to the following 5 subgroups: Neiguan (PC 6), Quze (PC 3), Tianquan (PC 2), Quchi (LI 11), and Jianyu (LI 15). Simultaneously, another 40 healthy rats were also randomized into the same 5 subgroups as the control group. The tissue fluids at the acupoints were collected by microdialysis for 30 min. Subsequently, the concentration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), adenosine monophosphate (AMP), and adenosine (ADO) were quantified using the high-performance liquid chromatography method. RESULTS Compared with the healthy group, the ADO at PC 6 (P=0.012), PC 3 (P=0.038), PC 2 (P=0.024), and LI 15 (P=0.042) obviously increased in the model group, while no significant difference was observed at LI 11 (P=0.201). However, ATP, ADP, and AMP manifested no significant changes in these areas, except for ATP at LI 15 (P=0.036). CONCLUSIONS Myocardial ischemia could induce an increase in ADO at acupoints of the upper arm and shoulder area, suggesting that the body functional status could affect the responsiveness of acupoints. The status of these acupoints could be pathogenically activated by disease, and distribution following some specific courses.
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Yu M, Su B, Zhang X. Gardenoside suppresses the pain in rats model of chronic constriction injury by regulating the P2X3 and P2X7 receptors. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2018; 38:198-203. [PMID: 29932348 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2018.1468782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Baohui Su
- Department of the Spine Surgery II, Weifang People Hospital, Weifang, PR China
| | - Xiaoxia Zhang
- Department of the Spine Surgery II, Weifang People Hospital, Weifang, PR China
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Mechanism of Activating the Proprioceptive NT-3/TrkC Signalling Pathway by Reverse Intervention for the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Hamstring Reflex Arc with Electroacupuncture. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:6348764. [PMID: 29581981 PMCID: PMC5822800 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6348764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an important structure maintaining stability of the knee joints. Deficits in physical stability and the proprioceptive capabilities of the knee joints are observed, when the ACL is damaged. Additionally, a unilateral ACL injury can affect bilateral knee proprioception; therefore, proprioception of the ACL may play a key role in stability. Electroacupuncture therapy has a definite effect nerve regeneration. In this study, cynomolgus monkeys were randomly divided into 4 groups: the model control group, intervention of the injured knee with electroacupuncture (IIKE) group, intervention of the bilateral knees with electroacupuncture (IBKE) group, and the blank control group. The unilateral ACL injury model was developed in IIKE and IBKE groups; acupuncture points around the knees underwent intervention similarly in the IIKE and IBKE groups. Then, mRNA and protein expressions of NT-3 and TrkC in the dorsal root ganglion and of growth-associated protein-43 in the ACL increased according to reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting results. Decreased incubations and increased amplitudes were found for somatosensory-evoked potentials and motor nerve conduction velocity. The finding indicates that electroacupuncture may play an important role in the recovery of proprioception in the ACL by activating the NT-3/TrkC signalling pathway.
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The Effect of Electroacupuncture on PKMzeta in the ACC in Regulating Anxiety-Like Behaviors in Rats Experiencing Chronic Inflammatory Pain. Neural Plast 2017; 2017:3728752. [PMID: 29075535 PMCID: PMC5624165 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3728752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory pain can induce emotional diseases. Electroacupuncture (EA) has effects on chronic pain and pain-related anxiety. Protein kinase Mzeta (PKMzeta) has been proposed to be essential for the maintenance of pain and may interact with GluR1 to maintain CNS plasticity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). We hypothesized that the PKMzeta-GluR1 pathway in the ACC may be involved in anxiety-like behaviors of chronic inflammatory pain and that the mechanism of EA regulation of pain emotion may involve the PKMzeta pathway in the ACC. Our results showed that chronic inflammatory pain model decreased the paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and increased anxiety-like behaviors. The protein expression of PKCzeta, p-PKCzeta (T560), PKMzeta, p-PKMzeta (T560), and GluR1 in the ACC of the model group were remarkably enhanced. EA increased PWT and alleviated anxiety-like behaviors. EA significantly inhibited the protein expression of p-PKMzeta (T560) in the ACC, and only a downward trend effect for other substances. Further, the microinjection of ZIP remarkably reversed PWT and anxiety-like behaviors. The present study provides direct evidence that the PKCzeta/PKMzeta-GluR1 pathway is related to pain and pain-induced anxiety-like behaviors. EA treatment both increases pain-related somatosensory behavior and decreases pain-induced anxiety-like behaviors by suppressing PKMzeta activity in the ACC.
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