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Trevizan-Baú P, McAllen RM. What is the Vagal-Adrenal Axis? J Comp Neurol 2024; 532:e25656. [PMID: 38980012 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25656] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Some recent publications have used the term "vagal-adrenal axis" to account for mechanisms involved in the regulation of inflammation by electroacupuncture. This concept proposes that efferent parasympathetic nerve fibers in the vagus directly innervate the adrenal glands to influence catecholamine secretion. Here, we discuss evidence for anatomical and functional links between the vagi and adrenal glands that may be relevant in the context of inflammation and its neural control by factors, including acupuncture. First, we find that evidence for any direct vagal parasympathetic efferent innervation of the adrenal glands is weak and likely artifactual. Second, we find good evidence that vagal afferent fibers directly innervate the adrenal gland, although their function is uncertain. Third, we highlight a wealth of evidence for indirect pathways, whereby vagal afferent signals act via the central nervous system to modify adrenal-dependent anti-inflammatory responses. Vagal afferents, not efferents, are thus the likely key to these phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Trevizan-Baú
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Robin M McAllen
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Xu JW, Tang SQ, Lin J, Li YJ, Shen D, Ding GH, Shen XY, Wang LN. NTPDase1-ATP-P2Y2Rs axis in the sciatic nerve contributes to acupuncture at "Zusanli" (ST36)-induced analgesia in ankle arthritis rats. Brain Res Bull 2024; 209:110909. [PMID: 38402994 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.110909] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) in alleviating lower-limb pain is widely acknowledged in clinical practice, while its underlying mechanism remains incompletely elucidated. Our previous research had revealed that the prompt analgesia induced by needling-ST36 was accompanied by expression alterations in certain exco-nucleotidases within the sciatic nerve. Building upon this finding, the current work focused on NTPDase1, the primary ecto-nucleotidase in the human body, which converts ATP into AMP. METHODS A 20-min acupuncture was administered unilaterally at the ST36 on rats with acute ankle arthritis. The pain thresholds of the injured hind paws were determined. Pharmacological interference was carried out by introducing the corresponding reagents to the sciatic nerve. ATP levels around the excised nerve were measured using a luciferase-luciferin assay. Live calcium imaging, utilizing the Fura 2-related-F340/F380 ratio, was conducted on Schwann cells in excised nerves and cultured rat SCs line, RSC96 cells. RESULTS The analgesic effect induced by needling-ST36 was impaired when preventing ATP degradation via inhibiting NTPDase1 activities with ARL67156 or Ticlopidine. Conversely, increasing NTPDase1 activities with Apyrase duplicated the acupuncture effect. Similarly, preventing the conversion of AMP to adenosine via suppression of NT5E with AMP-CP hindered the acupuncture effect. Unexpectedly, impeded ATP hydrolysis ability and diminished NTPDase1 expression were observed in the treated group. Agonism at P2Y2Rs with ATP, UTP, or INS365 resulted in anti-nociception. Contrarily, antagonism at P2Y2Rs with Suramin or AR-C 118925xx prevented acupuncture analgesia. Immunofluorescent labeling demonstrated that the treated rats expressed more P2Y2Rs that were predominant in Schwann cells. Suppression of Schwann cells by inhibiting ErbB receptors also prevented acupuncture analgesia. Finally, living imaging on the excised nerves or RSC96 cells showed that agonism at P2Y2Rs indeed led to [Ca2+]i rise. CONCLUSION These findings strongly suggest that the analgesic mechanism of needling-ST36 on the hypersensation in the lower limb partially relies on NTPDase1 activities in the sciatic nerve. In addition to facilitating adenosine signaling in conjunction with NT5E, most importantly, NTPDase1 may provide an appropriate low-level ATP milieu for the activation of P2Y2R in the sciatic nerve, particularly in Schwann cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Wen Xu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Si-Qi Tang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jie Lin
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yu-Jia Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Dan Shen
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, 516 Jungong Road, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Guang-Hong Ding
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function (21DZ2271800), Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Fudan University, 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.
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Wang M, Liu W, Ge J, Liu S. The immunomodulatory mechanisms for acupuncture practice. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1147718. [PMID: 37090714 PMCID: PMC10117649 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1147718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The system physiology approaches that emerge in western countries in recent years echo the holistic view of ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices that deal with the root, rather than only the symptoms of diseases. Particularly, TCM practices, including acupuncture, emphasize the mobilization of self-healing mechanisms to bring back body homeostasis. Acupuncture has been practiced for over two thousand years to modulate body physiology via stimulation at specific body regions (acupoints). With the development of various research on acupuncture therapy, its regulatory effect on the immune system has been gradually recognized, especially on immunological diseases, including infectious and allergic diseases. In this study, we reviewed the immunomodulatory mechanism of acupuncture and systematically integrates existing research to respectively elucidate the modulatory mechanisms of acupuncture on the innate immune system, adaptive immune system, and well-known neuroanatomical mechanisms, including intact somatosensory-autonomic reflex pathway. With the advances made in recent systems physiology studies, we now have a great opportunity to gain insight into how acupuncture modulates immunity, and subsequently improves its efficacy.
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Wang BG, Xu LL, Yang HY, Xie J, Xu G, Tang WC. Manual acupuncture for neuromusculoskeletal disorders: The selection of stimulation parameters and corresponding effects. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1096339. [PMID: 36793537 PMCID: PMC9922711 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1096339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
As a minimally invasive method of physical stimulation, manual acupuncture (MA) is used globally as a sort of therapy for neuromusculoskeletal disorders. In addition to selecting appropriate acupoints, acupuncturists should also determine the stimulation parameters of needling, such as the manipulation (lifting-thrusting or twirling), needling amplitude, velocity, and stimulation time. At present, most studies focus on acupoint combination and mechanism of MA, the relationship between stimulation parameters and their therapeutic effects, as well as the influence on mechanism of action are relatively scattered, and lack of systematic summary and analysis. This paper reviewed the three types of stimulation parameters of MA, their common options and values, corresponding effects and potential mechanisms of action. The purpose of such efforts is to provide a useful reference for the dose-effect relationship of MA and the quantification and standardization of its clinical treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders to further promote the application of acupuncture in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Gan Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liu-Liu Xu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua-Yuan Yang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Xie
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Yuhuan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Gang Xu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Chao Tang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Yu Q, Cao W, Wang X, He W, Sun X, Chen L, Su Y, Zhang Z, Jing X. The Effect of Pre-Electroacupuncture on Nociceptive Discharges of Spinal Wide Dynamic Range Neurons in Rat. J Pain Res 2023; 16:695-706. [PMID: 36915279 PMCID: PMC10007980 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s396481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Spinal wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons are well studied in pain models and they play critical roles in regulating nociception. Evidence has started to accumulate that acupuncture produces a good analgesic effect via activating different primary fibers with distinct intensities. The purpose of the present study was to compare the distinct intensities of pre-electroacupuncture (pre-EA) at local muscular receptive fields (RFs), adjacent or contralateral non-RFs regulating the nociceptive discharges of spinal WDR neurons evoked by hypertonic saline (HS). Materials and Methods Spinal segments of electrophysiological recording were identified by neural tracers applied at the left gastrocnemius muscle. The thresholds of Aβ (TAβ), Aδ (TAδ) and C (TC) components of WDR neurons were measured to determine the intensity of pre-EA by extracellular recording. The discharges of WDR neurons induced by distinct intensities of pre-EA and 200 µL HS (6%) injection in left gastrocnemius muscle of rats were observed by extracellular recording. Results The spinal segments of WDR neurons were confirmed in lumbar (L)5-6 area according to the projective segments of dorsal root ganglion. TAβ, TAδ and TC of WDR neurons was determined to be 0.5, 1, and 2 mA, respectively. The pre-EA with intensities of TAβ (P < 0.05), TAδ (P < 0.05), TC (P < 0.05) or 2TC (P < 0.01) at ipsilateral adjacent non-RFs significantly reduced the discharges of WDR neurons, while at local RFs only pre-EA of TAδ (P < 0.05), TC (P < 0.05) and 2TC (P < 0.01) could inhibit the nociceptive discharges. In addition, intensity of pre-EA at contralateral non-RFs should reach at least TC to effectively inhibit the firing rates of WDR neurons (P < 0.01). Conclusion Pre-EA could suppress nociceptive discharges of WDR neurons and the inhibitory effects were dependent on the distinct intensities and locations of stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingquan Yu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanying Cao
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei He
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyue Sun
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lizhen Chen
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangshuai Su
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyun Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianghong Jing
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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The dose-effect relationship of electroacupuncture analgesia and its stimulus parameters: Progress in the last 3 decades 电针镇痛及其与刺激参数的量效关系研究:近三十年研究新进展. WORLD JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE-MOXIBUSTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Chu XL, Song XZ, Li Q, Li YR, He F, Gu XS, Ming D. Basic mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury and treatment via electrical stimulation. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:2185-2193. [PMID: 35259827 PMCID: PMC9083151 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.335823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies on the mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) have mainly focused on the pathophysiological changes within a single injury site. However, recent studies have indicated that within the central nervous system, PNI can lead to changes in both injury sites and target organs at the cellular and molecular levels. Therefore, the basic mechanisms of PNI have not been comprehensively understood. Although electrical stimulation was found to promote axonal regeneration and functional rehabilitation after PNI, as well as to alleviate neuropathic pain, the specific mechanisms of successful PNI treatment are unclear. We summarize and discuss the basic mechanisms of PNI and of treatment via electrical stimulation. After PNI, activity in the central nervous system (spinal cord) is altered, which can limit regeneration of the damaged nerve. For example, cell apoptosis and synaptic stripping in the anterior horn of the spinal cord can reduce the speed of nerve regeneration. The pathological changes in the posterior horn of the spinal cord can modulate sensory abnormalities after PNI. This can be observed in cases of ectopic discharge of the dorsal root ganglion leading to increased pain signal transmission. The injured site of the peripheral nerve is also an important factor affecting post-PNI repair. After PNI, the proximal end of the injured site sends out axial buds to innervate both the skin and muscle at the injury site. A slow speed of axon regeneration leads to low nerve regeneration. Therefore, it can take a long time for the proximal nerve to reinnervate the skin and muscle at the injured site. From the perspective of target organs, long-term denervation can cause atrophy of the corresponding skeletal muscle, which leads to abnormal sensory perception and hyperalgesia, and finally, the loss of target organ function. The mechanisms underlying the use of electrical stimulation to treat PNI include the inhibition of synaptic stripping, addressing the excessive excitability of the dorsal root ganglion, alleviating neuropathic pain, improving neurological function, and accelerating nerve regeneration. Electrical stimulation of target organs can reduce the atrophy of denervated skeletal muscle and promote the recovery of sensory function. Findings from the included studies confirm that after PNI, a series of physiological and pathological changes occur in the spinal cord, injury site, and target organs, leading to dysfunction. Electrical stimulation may address the pathophysiological changes mentioned above, thus promoting nerve regeneration and ameliorating dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lei Chu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University; Department of Rehabilitation, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xi-Zi Song
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qi Li
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University; Department of Rehabilitation, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu-Ru Li
- College of Exercise & Health Sciences, Tianjin University of Sport, Tianjin, China
| | - Feng He
- College of Precision Instruments & Optoelectronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiao-Song Gu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Dong Ming
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine; College of Precision Instruments & Optoelectronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
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Ma X, Chen W, Yang NN, Wang L, Hao XW, Tan CX, Li HP, Liu CZ. Potential mechanisms of acupuncture for neuropathic pain based on somatosensory system. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:940343. [PMID: 36203799 PMCID: PMC9530146 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.940343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain, caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory system, is common and distressing. In view of the high human and economic burden, more effective treatment strategies were urgently needed. Acupuncture has been increasingly used as an adjuvant or complementary therapy for neuropathic pain. Although the therapeutic effects of acupuncture have been demonstrated in various high-quality randomized controlled trials, there is significant heterogeneity in the underlying mechanisms. This review aimed to summarize the potential mechanisms of acupuncture on neuropathic pain based on the somatosensory system, and guided for future both foundational and clinical studies. Here, we argued that acupuncture may have the potential to inhibit neuronal activity caused by neuropathic pain, through reducing the activation of pain-related ion channels and suppressing glial cells (including microglia and astrocytes) to release inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, amongst others. Meanwhile, acupuncture as a non-pharmacologic treatment, may have potential to activate descending pain control system via increasing the level of spinal or brain 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and opioid peptides. And the types of endogenously opioid peptides was influenced by electroacupuncture-frequency. The cumulative evidence demonstrated that acupuncture provided an alternative or adjunctive therapy for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ma
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Chen
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Na-Na Yang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Wan Hao
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Xia Tan
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Ping Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Hong-Ping Li,
| | - Cun-Zhi Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Cun-Zhi Liu,
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Fundamental Neurocircuit of Anti-inflammatory Effect by Electroacupuncture Stimulation Identified. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:837-839. [PMID: 35437620 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00849-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Effects of Acupuncture on Endometrium and Pregnancy Outcomes in Patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization-Embryo Transfer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Chin J Integr Med 2022; 28:736-742. [PMID: 35419725 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-022-3498-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To observe the effect of acupuncture on endometrium and pregnancy outcomes in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) infertility undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). METHODS Eighty-three patients were randomly assigned to observation group (40 cases) and control group (43 cases) according to the random numbers generated by SPSS software. The patients of the two groups received GnRH agonist long protocol as a routine treatment. In the observation group, acupuncture was given at two acupoint groups for 30 min once every other day. Group 1 included Guanyuan (CV 4), Qihai (CV 6), Zhongji (CV 3), bilateral acupoints Zigong (EX-CA1). Group 2 included Mingmen (GV 4), Yaoyangguan (GV 3), bilateral Shenshu (BL 23) and Ciliao (BL 32). The two groups of acupoints were used alternately. The whole needling process was performed at the time of ovulation induction until the transplantation day and consisted of 3 courses, while the control group did not receive acupuncture interventions. The Gn dosage and Gn stimulation time, endometrial thickness and type (A, B, and C), serum oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) levels on the day of injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), clinical pregnancy rate, as well as live birth rate were observed. Adverse reactions were also be recorded. All patients were followed up for the pregnant rate 14 days after IVF-ET and live birth rate after pregnancy. All adverse reactions (AEs) of acupuncture were recorded during the trial. RESULTS The Gn dosage and Gn stimulation time in the observation group were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.01). The proportion of type A endometrium in the observation group were higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). The serum E2 and P levels on the day of hCG injection was lower and the clinical pregnancy rate was higher in the observation group compared to those in the control group (P<0.05). There was no serious AEs during this trial. CONCLUSION Acupuncture can improve the proportion of type A endometrium, regulate the levels of serum E2 and P on the day of hCG injection, and improve the pregnancy rate in patients with PCOS infertility undergoing IVF-ET.
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Involvement of Opioid Peptides in the Analgesic Effect of Spinal Cord Stimulation in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:403-416. [PMID: 35397112 PMCID: PMC9068858 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00844-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS)-induced analgesia was characterized, and its underlying mechanisms were examined in a spared nerve injury model of neuropathic pain in rats. The analgesic effect of SCS with moderate mechanical hypersensitivity was increased with increasing stimulation intensity between the 20% and 80% motor thresholds. Various frequencies (2, 15, 50, 100, 10000 Hz, and 2/100 Hz dense-dispersed) of SCS were similarly effective. SCS-induced analgesia was maintained without tolerance within 24 h of continuous stimulation. SCS at 2 Hz significantly increased methionine enkephalin content in the cerebrospinal fluid. The analgesic effect of 2 Hz was abolished by μ or κ opioid receptor antagonist. The effect of 100 Hz was prevented by a κ antagonist, and that of 10 kHz was blocked by any of the μ, δ, or κ receptor antagonists, suggesting that the analgesic effect of SCS at different frequencies is mediated by different endorphins and opioid receptors.
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12
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Wang C, Deng H, Kuang S. Restoring Vision Naturally and Noninvasively. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:1642-1644. [PMID: 34383235 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00760-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chundi Wang
- Department of Psychology and Research Centre of Aeronautic Psychology and Behavior, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, 100096, China
| | - Hu Deng
- Peking University HuiLongGuan Clinical Medical School, Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Beijing, 100096, China.
| | - Shenbing Kuang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
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Chen L, Wang X, Zhang X, Wan H, Su Y, He W, Xie Y, Jing X. Electroacupuncture and Moxibustion-Like Stimulation Relieves Inflammatory Muscle Pain by Activating Local Distinct Layer Somatosensory Afferent Fibers. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:695152. [PMID: 34335169 PMCID: PMC8319633 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.695152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that both superficial and deep acupuncture produced clinically relevant and persistent effect on chronic pain, and several subtypes of somatic primary afferents played critical roles in acupuncture and moxibustion analgesia. However, which kind of primary afferents in the superficial and deep tissue of the acupoint is activated by acupuncture or moxibustion to relieve pain persistently remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the roles of distinct peripheral afferents in different layers of the tissue (muscle or skin) in the acupoint for pain relief. Muscular A-fibers activated by deep electroacupuncture (dEA) with lower intensity (approximately 1 mA) persistently alleviated inflammatory muscle pain. Meanwhile, cutaneous C-nociceptors excited by noxious moxibustion-like stimulation (MS) and topical application of capsaicin (CAP) on local acupoint area produced durable analgesic effect. Additionally, spontaneous activity of C-fibers caused by muscular inflammation was also inhibited by dEA and CAP. Furthermore, decreases in pain behavior induced by dEA disappeared after deep A-fibers were demyelinated by cobra venom, whereas CAP failed to relieve pain following cutaneous denervation. Collectively, these results indicate that dEA and MS ameliorate inflammatory muscle pain through distinct primary afferents in different layers of somatic tissue; the former is achieved by activating muscular A-fibers, while the latter is mediated by activating cutaneous C-fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhen Chen
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongye Wan
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yangshuai Su
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei He
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yikuan Xie
- School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xianghong Jing
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Needling Interventions for Sciatica: Choosing Methods Based on Neuropathic Pain Mechanisms-A Scoping Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10102189. [PMID: 34069357 PMCID: PMC8158699 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10102189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sciatica is a condition often accompanied by neuropathic pain (NP). Acupuncture and dry needling are common treatments for pain, and the current literature supports acupuncture as an effective treatment for sciatica. However, it is unknown if the mechanisms of NP are considered in the delivery of needling interventions for sciatica. Our objective was to assess the efficacy and the effectiveness of needling therapies, to identify common needling practices and to investigate if NP mechanisms are considered in the treatment of sciatica. A scoping review of the literature on needling interventions for sciatica and a review of the literature on mechanisms related to NP and needling interventions were performed. Electronic literature searches were conducted on PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to August, 2020 to identify relevant papers. Reference lists of included papers were also manually screened and a related-articles search through PubMed was performed on all included articles. Mapping of the results included description of included studies, summary of results, and identification of gaps in the existing literature. Ten articles were included. All studies used acupuncture for the treatment of sciatica, no studies on dry needling were identified. Current evidence supports the efficacy and effectiveness of acupuncture for sciatica, however, no studies considered underlying NP mechanisms in the acupuncture approach for sciatica and the rationale for using acupuncture was inconsistent among trials. This review reveals that neuropathic pain mechanisms are not routinely considered in needling approaches for patients with sciatica. Studies showed acupuncture to be an effective treatment for sciatic pain, however, further research is warranted to explore if needling interventions for sciatica and NP would be more effective if NP mechanisms are considered.
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Jin ZR, Fang D, Liu BH, Cai J, Tang WH, Jiang H, Xing GG. Roles of CatSper channels in the pathogenesis of asthenozoospermia and the therapeutic effects of acupuncture-like treatment on asthenozoospermia. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2822-2844. [PMID: 33456575 PMCID: PMC7806476 DOI: 10.7150/thno.51869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Idiopathic asthenozoospermia (iAZS) is one of the major causes of male infertility and has no effective therapeutic treatment. Understanding the potential mechanisms that cause it may be helpful in seeking novel targets and treatment strategies for overcoming the problem of low sperm motility in iAZS individuals. Methods: Computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) was utilized to assess the sperm motility. RT-qPCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and calcium imaging analysis were performed to examine the expression and function of CatSper channels. Hyperactivation and acrosome reaction were used to evaluate the functional characteristics of epididymal sperm. In vivo fertility assay was applied to determine the fertility of rats. CatSper1 knockdown and overexpression experiments were performed to confirm the roles of CatSper channels in the pathogenesis of iAZS and the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment on AZS model rats. Results: Here, we reported a functional down-regulation of CatSper channel from CatSper1 to CatSper 4 in the sperm of both iAZS patients and ornidazole (ORN)-induced AZS model rats, and an impaired sperm function characterized by a reduction of protein tyrosine phosphorylation, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction in the epididymal sperm of AZS rats. Knockdown of CatSper1 in the testis tissues is sufficient to induce AZS in normal rats, and this action was validated by the reversal effects of CatSper1 overexpression. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) and electroacupuncture (EA) at 2 Hz frequency improve the sperm motility via enhancing the functional expression of CatSper channels in the sperm. Gene silencing CatSper1 in the sperm abolishes the therapeutic effects of 2 Hz-EA treatment on AZS rats. Conclusions: We conclude that a functional down-regulation of CatSper channel in the sperm may be a contributor or a downstream indicator for a portion of AZS, especially iAZS, while 2 Hz-TEAS or EA treatment has a therapeutic effect on iAZS through inducing the functional up-regulation of CatSper channels in the sperm. This study provides a novel mechanism for the pathogenesis of some AZS especially iAZS, and presents a potential therapeutic target of CatSper for iAZS treatment. Acupuncture treatment like TEAS may be used as a promising complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapy for male infertility caused by iAZS in clinical practice.
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