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Fan X, Liu Y, Li S, Yang Y, Zhao Y, Li W, Hao J, Xu Z, Zhang B, Liu W, Zhang S. Comprehensive landscape-style investigation of the molecular mechanism of acupuncture at ST36 single acupoint on different systemic diseases. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26270. [PMID: 38375243 PMCID: PMC10875596 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26270] [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: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The principle of acupoint stimulation efficacy is based on traditional meridian theory. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of acupoints in treating diseases remain unclear in modern scientific understanding. In this study, we selected the ST36 acupoint for investigation and summarized all relevant literature from the PubMed database over the past 10 years. The results indicate that stimulation of ST36 single acupoints has therapeutic effects mainly in models of respiratory, neurological, digestive, endocrine and immune system diseases. And it can affect the inflammatory state, oxidative stress, respiratory mucus secretion, intestinal flora, immune cell function, neurotransmitter transmission, hormone secretion, the network of Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC) and glucose metabolism of the organism in these pathological states. Among them, acupuncture at the ST36 single point has the most prominent function in regulating the inflammatory state, which can mainly affect the activation of MAPK signaling pathway and drive the "molecular-cellular" mode involving macrophages, T-lymphocytes, mast cells (MCs) and neuroglial cells as the core to trigger the molecular level changes of the acupuncture point locally or in the target organ tissues, thereby establishing a multi-system, multi-target, multi-level molecular regulating mechanism. This article provides a comprehensive summary and discussion of the molecular mechanisms and effects of acupuncture at the ST36 acupoint, laying the groundwork for future in-depth research on acupuncture point theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Fan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300250, China
| | - Yunlong Liu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Yongrui Yang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Yinghui Zhao
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Wenxi Li
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Jiaxin Hao
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, Institute for TCM-X, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Wei Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Hebei Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hebei Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Suzhao Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Hebei Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hebei Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
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Zhang J, Huang WH, Zheng YD, Li X, Jiang HX, Su MZ, Huang XY, Dou ZL, Tang ZM. Effects of auricular acupuncture stimulation on healthy adults’ upper limb motor-evoked potentials: A randomized, crossover, double-blind study. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:895602. [PMID: 36061611 PMCID: PMC9434402 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.895602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to determine whether auricular acupuncture has neuromodulatory effects on the motor cortex of healthy adults. Methods Fourteen healthy subjects received a real auricular acupuncture stimulation (SF1) session and a sham acupuncture stimulation session. The interval between the two types of stimulation was more than 24 h. A finger dexterity test (taping score and taping speed by using ipad) was assessed, and motor-evoked potentials (MEP) were assessed before and after each stimulation. Results Before the treatment, there were no significant differences in MEP amplitude, tapping score, or tapping speed (P > 0.05) between the real and sham stimulation conditions. After the treatment, the MEP amplitude, tapping score, and tapping speed in the real stimulation condition increased significantly compared to the pre-stimulation measurements and were significantly higher than those in the sham stimulation condition (P < 0.01). In the sham stimulation condition, the MEP amplitude, tapping score, and tapping speed decreased significantly compared to the pre-stimulation measurements (P < 0.05). Conclusion Acupuncture of auricular points can modulate the excitability of the motor cortex area of controlling the upper limbs. Clinical trial registration [http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx], identifier [ChiCTR2100051608].
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Zhang X, Chen H, Val-Laillet D. Hypothesis paper: electroacupuncture targeting the gut-brain axis to modulate neurocognitive determinants of eating behavior-toward a proof of concept in the obese minipig model. Eat Weight Disord 2021; 26:61-74. [PMID: 32100220 PMCID: PMC7895779 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-020-00864-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture has thousands of years of history and perspective for the treatment of many health problems and disorders. Beneficial effects of acupuncture on obesity have been demonstrated at various levels in animals and clinical trials, with almost no adverse effect, even when combined with local electrical stimulation, i.e., electroacupuncture (EA), a way to potentiate the effects of acupuncture. However, there is still scattered evidence about the impact of EA on brain functions related to the control of eating behavior, and notably on the gut-brain axis mechanisms involved in these putative central modulations. During the past 10 years, we have described a convincing diet-induced obese minipig model, and successfully implemented brain imaging and neurocognitive approaches to challenge mechanistic hypotheses and innovative therapeutic strategies. In the present article, we propose to confront the current literature on the acupuncture and EA effects on the gut-brain axis and obesity with the latest developments in nutrition and neuroscience research using the minipig model. Our aims are to (a) elaborate functional hypotheses on the gut-brain mechanisms underlying EA effects on obesity, and especially on the role of the vagus nerve, and (b) present the rational for testing these hypotheses in the minipig model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuwen Zhang
- Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,Guanzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - David Val-Laillet
- INRAE, INSERM, Univ Rennes, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, NuMeCan, 16 Le Clos, St Gilles, 35590, Rennes, France.
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Acupuncture stimulation attenuates TNF-α production via vagal modulation in the concanavalin A model of hepatitis. Acupunct Med 2020; 38:417-425. [DOI: 10.1177/0964528420907338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: A growing body of evidence shows that neuronal activity is involved in modulating the efficacy of acupuncture therapy. However, it has been seldom investigated whether neuronal activity following acupuncture stimulation is effective at regulating hepatic inflammation. Objective: Using the concanavalin A (ConA) model of hepatitis, we investigated the regulation of inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in the liver tissue and the blood after acupuncture stimulation at ST36. Methods: Mice were subjected to ConA injection, acupuncture stimulation at ST36 by manual acupuncture (MA) or electroacupuncture (EA) procedures, and vagotomy (VNX). Liver tissue and blood were collected for TNF-α analysis. TNF-α mRNA was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and TNF-α, CD11b, CD68, and Erk1/2 proteins were analyzed by Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: TNF-α mRNA and protein were induced in CD11b-positive hepatic cells and the plasma at 6–24 h after ConA injection. The application of MA or EA was very effective at attenuating the production of TNF-α. Anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture were greatly suppressed by VNX in ConA-injected animals, suggesting the requirement of vagus nerve activity in acupuncture-mediated anti-inflammatory responses. Electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve (SNS) resulted in an anti-inflammatory effect similar to acupuncture stimulation. In parallel with TNF-α, production of phospho-Erk1/2, which was induced in the liver tissue, was downregulated by MA and EA in liver cells. Conclusion: The regulatory effects of acupuncture stimulation on inflammatory responses in the liver may be modulated through the activation of the vagus nerve pathway.
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Jo BG, Kim NH, Namgung U. Sympathetic Nervous Activity is Involved in the Anti-Inflammatory Effects by Electroacupuncture Stimulation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.14406/acu.2019.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Byung Gon Jo
- Department of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University
| | - Nam Hoon Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University
| | - Uk Namgung
- Department of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University
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Sun ZG, Pi YL, Zhang J, Wang M, Zou J, Wu W. Effect of acupuncture at ST36 on motor cortical excitation and inhibition. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01370. [PMID: 31359627 PMCID: PMC6749473 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) is often used to facilitate motor recovery after stroke. However, the effect of acupuncture at ST36 on motor cortical excitation and inhibition remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect of acupuncture at ST36 on motor cortical excitation and inhibition. METHODS Twenty healthy volunteers were recruited to receive acupuncture treatment. We selected the acupoint ST36 and its respective sham point as the experimental acupoint. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to measure motor-evoked potentials (MEP) at 7 time points-before acupuncture (Pre), acupuncture (T0), 4 and 8 min after acupuncture (T4; T8), needle removal (T12), 4 and 8 min after needle removal (T16; T20). Simultaneously, paired TMS (pTMS) was employed to measure short- and long-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI [short latency intracortical inhibition]; LICI [long latency intracortical inhibition]), respectively, at three time points-before acupuncture (Pre), acupuncture (T0), needle removal (T12). After removing the acupuncture needle, all subjects were asked to quantify their Deqi sensation using a Gas table. RESULTS The average Deqi sensation score of all subjects during acupuncture at ST36 was higher than that observed at the sham point. With acupuncture at ST36, the MEP amplitude was higher at three time points (T0, T4, T8) than at Pre, although the MEP amplitude tended toward Pre after needle removal. The MEP amplitude was also higher at the same time points (T0, T4, T8) than at the sham point. Furthermore, the Deqi sensation score was correlated with MEP amplitude. With acupuncture at ST36, SICI and LICI at T0 were higher than those at Pre, and SICI and LICI at T0 were higher than those at the sham point. CONCLUSION Acupuncture at ST36 increased motor cortical excitation and had an effect on the remaining needle phase. Deqi sensation was correlated with MEP amplitude. Acupuncture at ST36 also decreased motor cortical inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Guang Sun
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Ling Pi
- Shanghai Punan Hospital of Pudong New District, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zou
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Affiliated Competitive Sport School, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Liu J, Wang Q, Yang S, Huang J, Feng X, Peng J, Lin Z, Liu W, Tao J, Chen L. Electroacupuncture Inhibits Apoptosis of Peri-Ischemic Regions via Modulating p38, Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase (ERK1/2), and c-Jun N Terminal Kinases (JNK) in Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion-Injured Rats. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:4395-4404. [PMID: 29943755 PMCID: PMC6048997 DOI: 10.12659/msm.908473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies suggested that inhibition of apoptosis prevents the dysfunction of ischemia-reperfusion injury. In the pathogenesis of ischemia-reperfusion injury, JNK/ERK1/2 and p38 play an essential role in regulation of cell apoptosis. Electroacupuncture (EA), a form of acupuncture, has demonstrated superiority in preventing ischemia-reperfusion injury, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. In the present study, we explored the effects of electroacupuncture at Shenting (GV24) and Baihui (GV20) acupoints on focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (MCAO) rats, and explored whether JNK/ERK1/2- and p38-mediated cell apoptosis are involved. MATERIAL AND METHODS The rats were divided into a sham operation control group, an ischemia group, and an electroacupuncture group with acupuncture applied for 10 days (30 min per day). TTC staining was used to calculate the ischemic brain volume. TUNEL staining and transmission electron microscopy were used to detect cell apoptosis. Western blot analysis and Bio-Plex were used to detect JNK, p38, ERK1/2, Bcl-2, and Bax protein expression. RESULTS We found that electroacupuncture at day 10 significantly reduced cerebral infarction. In addition, electroacupuncture suppressed activation of JNK and p38, while enhancing the activation of ERK1/2 in the peri-ischemic regions. Consequently, the effect of electroacupuncture on these pathways resulted in the inhibition of apoptosis, which was demonstrated by TUNEL and transmission electron microscopy. We found that electroacupuncture upregulated the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2/Bax ratio in peri-ischemic regions. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that inhibition of cell apoptosis via regulating multiple signaling pathways might be a mechanism whereby electroacupuncture has a positive therapeutic effect on post-stroke impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Liu
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Qin Wang
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Shanli Yang
- Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Jia Huang
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Feng
- First Affiliated Hospital, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Zhengkun Lin
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Weilin Liu
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Jing Tao
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Exercise Rehabilitation, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Lidian Chen
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Exercise Rehabilitation, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
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Hu LN, Tian JX, Gao W, Zhu J, Mou FF, Ye XC, Liu YP, Lu PP, Shao SJ, Guo HD. Electroacupuncture and moxibustion promote regeneration of injured sciatic nerve through Schwann cell proliferation and nerve growth factor secretion. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:477-483. [PMID: 29623933 PMCID: PMC5900511 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.228731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Using electroacupuncture and moxibustion to treat peripheral nerve injury is highly efficient with low side effects. However, the electroacupuncture- and moxibustion-based mechanisms underlying nerve repair are still unclear. Here, in vivo and in vitro experiments uncovered one mechanism through which electroacupuncture and moxibustion affect regeneration after peripheral nerve injury. We first established rat models of sciatic nerve injury using neurotomy. Rats were treated with electroacupuncture or moxibustion at acupoints Huantiao (GB30) and Zusanli (ST36). Each treatment lasted 15 minutes, and treatments were given six times a week for 4 consecutive weeks. Behavioral testing was used to determine the sciatic functional index. We used electrophysiological detection to measure sciatic nerve conduction velocity and performed hematoxylin-eosin staining to determine any changes in the gastrocnemius muscle. We used immunohistochemistry to observe changes in the expression of S100—a specific marker for Schwann cells—and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect serum level of nerve growth factor. Results showed that compared with the model-only group, sciatic functional index, recovery rate of conduction velocity, diameter recovery of the gastrocnemius muscle fibers, number of S100-immunoreactive cells, and level of nerve growth factor were greater in the electroacupuncture and moxibustion groups. The efficacy did not differ between treatment groups. The serum from treated rats was collected and used to stimulate Schwann cells cultured in vitro. Results showed that the viability of Schwann cells was much higher in the treatment groups than in the model group at 3 and 5 days after treatment. These findings indicate that electroacupuncture and moxibustion promoted nerve regeneration and functional recovery; its mechanism might be associated with the enhancement of Schwann cell proliferation and upregulation of nerve growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Na Hu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin-Xin Tian
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Department of Internal Medicine, Shanghai Changhang Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Heze Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Heze, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang-Fang Mou
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Chun Ye
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Pu Liu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping-Ping Lu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shui-Jin Shao
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Dong Guo
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Acupuncture Stimulation via the Vagus Nerve. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151882. [PMID: 26991319 PMCID: PMC4798687 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although acupuncture therapy is widely used in traditional Asian medicine for the treatment of diverse internal organ disorders, its underlying biological mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we investigated the functional involvement of acupuncture stimulation (AS) in the regulation of inflammatory responses. TNF-α production in mouse serum, which was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration, was decreased by manual acupuncture (MAC) at the zusanli acupoint (stomach36, ST36). In the spleen, TNF-α mRNA and protein levels were also downregulated by MAC and were recovered by using a splenic neurectomy and a vagotomy. c-Fos, which was induced in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMV) by LPS and electroacupuncture (EAC), was further increased by focal administration of the AMPA receptor blocker CNQX and the purinergic receptor antagonist PPADS. TNF-α levels in the spleen were decreased by CNQX and PPADS treatments, implying the involvement of inhibitory neuronal activity in the DVC. In unanesthetized animals, both MAC and EAC generated c-Fos induction in the DVC neurons. However, MAC, but not EAC, was effective in decreasing splenic TNF-α production. These results suggest that the therapeutic effects of acupuncture may be mediated through vagal modulation of inflammatory responses in internal organs.
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Acupuncture-induced changes of vagal function in patients with depression: A preliminary sham-controlled study with press needles. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2015; 21:193-200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Bilateral hegu acupoints have the same effect on the heart rate variability of the healthy subjects. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:106940. [PMID: 25057272 PMCID: PMC4099173 DOI: 10.1155/2014/106940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background. The specificity of acupuncture points (acupoints) is one of the key concepts in traditional acupuncture theory, but the question of whether there is adequate scientific evidence to prove or disprove specificity has been vigorously debated in recent years. Acupoint laterality is an important aspect of acupoint specificity. Data is particularly scarce regarding the laterality of the same channel, namesake acupoint located on opposite sides of the body. Our previous study results suggest that Neiguan acupoint (PC6) has the laterality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Hegu (LI4) also has laterality from the perspective of heart rate variability. Methods. A total of twenty-eight healthy female volunteers were recruited for this study and were randomly separated into the group I (n = 14) and the group II (n = 14) according to the register order. In the group I, left LI4 was stimulated in the first epoch and the right LI4 was stimulated in the second epoch. In the group II, right LI4 was stimulated in the first epoch and left LI4 was stimulated in the second epoch. Electrocardiogram was recorded and heart rate variability was analyzed. Results. The results show that there were no significant differences of heart rate variablity between the group I and the group II in the time domain and in the frequency domain. Conclusions. Bilateral Hegu acupoints have the same effect on the heart rate variability of the healthy subjects.
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Hypothesis, modern researches and clinical applications of cutaneous regions in traditional Chinese medicine. JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE AND TUINA SCIENCE 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11726-014-0759-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Neuronal Activity Stimulated by Liquid Substrates Injection at Zusanli (ST36) Acupoint: The Possible Mechanism of Aquapuncture. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:627342. [PMID: 24734109 PMCID: PMC3963215 DOI: 10.1155/2014/627342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aquapuncture is a modified acupuncture technique and it is generally accepted that it has a greater therapeutic effect than acupuncture
because of the combination of the acupoint stimulation and the pharmacological effect of the drugs. However, to date, the mechanisms underlying the effects of
aquapuncture remain unclear. We hypothesized that both the change in the local spatial configuration and the substrate stimulation of aquapuncture
would activate neuronal signaling. Thus, bee venom, normal saline, and vitamins B1 and B12 were injected into a Zusanli (ST36) acupoint as substrate of aquapuncture,
whereas a dry needle was inserted into ST36 as a control. After aquapuncture, activated neurons expressing Fos protein were mainly observed in the dorsal horn of
the spinal cord in lumbar segments L3–5, with the distribution nearly identical among all groups. However, the bee venom injection induced significantly more Fos-expressing neurons than the other substrates. Based on these data, we suggest that changes in the spatial configuration of the acupoint activate neuronal signaling and that bee venom may further strengthen this neuronal activity. In conclusion, the mechanisms for the effects of aquapuncture appear to be the spatial configuration changes occurring within the acupoint and the ability of injected substrates to stimulate neuronal activity.
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Pilot study of acupuncture point laterality: evidence from heart rate variability. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:476064. [PMID: 24371461 PMCID: PMC3863465 DOI: 10.1155/2013/476064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 11/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The specificity of acupuncture points (acupoints) is one of the key concepts in traditional acupuncture theory, but the question of whether there is adequate scientific evidence to prove or disprove specificity has been vigorously debated in recent years. Laterality, or the tendency for acupoints on the right or left side of the body to produce different physiological effects, is an important aspect of acupoint specificity. Data is particularly scarce regarding the laterality of the same channel, same-named acupoint located on opposite sides of the body. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Neiguan (PC6) has laterality. A total of eighteen healthy female volunteers were recruited for this study. Electrocardiograms were recorded and heart rate variability was analyzed before, during, and after PC6 was stimulated on either the left or the right side. The results show that during acupuncture, there were significant differences in the standard deviation of RR intervals (STDRR), root mean square of successive differences between RR intervals (RMSSD), and total power between the left PC6 stimulation group and the right PC6 stimulation group, which indicates that PC6 may have laterality.
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Kim SH, Hong JH, Lee YC. Oleanolic acid suppresses ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation and Th2-mediated allergic asthma by modulating the transcription factors T-bet, GATA-3, RORγt and Foxp3 in asthmatic mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2013; 18:311-24. [PMID: 24374304 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2013.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The natural product oleanolic acid is commonly found in a variety of medicinal plants. It is a triterpenoid compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects as well as various other pharmacological properties. The aim of the current study was to use a mouse model of allergic asthma to investigate whether oleanolic acid has anti-asthmatic effects, and if so, to determine the mechanism of these effects. Oleanolic acid suppressed eosinophil infiltration, allergic airway inflammation, and Penh, which occurred by suppressing the production of IL-5, IL-13, IL-17, and ovalbumin-specific IgE through the upregulation of T-bet and Foxp3, and the downregulation of GATA-3 and RORγt. The therapeutic effect of oleanolic acid was due to suppression of Th2 cytokines (IL-5 and IL-13), B cell-dependent production of OVA-specific IgE, and Gr-1 expression through the T-bet, GATA-3, retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γ t (RORγ t) and forkhead box p3 (Foxp3) transcription pathways. It is therefore reasonable to suggest that the anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic effects of oleanolic acid may be exerted through inhibition of the GATA-3 and RORγt pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Hyung Kim
- Institute of Traditional Medicine & Bioscience, Daejeon University, Daejeon 300-716, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hee Hong
- Department of Herbology, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University, Wonju 220-702, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Cheol Lee
- Department of Herbology, College of Oriental Medicine, Sangji University, Wonju 220-702, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Du MH, Luo HM, Hu S, Lv Y, Lin ZL, Ma L. Electroacupuncture improves gut barrier dysfunction in prolonged hemorrhagic shock rats through vagus anti-inflammatory mechanism. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:5988-5999. [PMID: 24106399 PMCID: PMC3785620 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i36.5988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Revised: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 08/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate whether electroacupuncture (EA) at Zusanli (ST36) prevents intestinal barrier and remote organ dysfunction following prolonged hemorrhagic shock through a vagus anti-inflammatory mechanism.
METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to about 45% of total blood volume loss followed by delayed fluid replacement (DFR) with Ringer lactate 3h after hemorrhage. In a first study, rats were randomly divided into six groups: (1) EAN: EA at non-channel acupoints followed by DFR; (2) EA: EA at ST36 after hemorrhage followed by DFR; (3) VGX/EA: vagotomy (VGX) before EA at ST36 and DFR; (4) VGX/EAN: VGX before EAN and DFR; (5) α-bungarotoxin (α-BGT)/EA: intraperitoneal injection of α-BGT before hemorrhage, followed by EA at ST36 and DFR; and (6) α-BGT/EAN group: α-BGT injection before hemorrhage followed by EAN and DFR. Survival and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were monitored over the next 12 h. In a second study, with the same grouping and treatment, cytokine levels in plasma and intestine, organ parameters, gut injury score, gut permeability to 4 kDa FITC-dextran, and expression and distribution of tight junction protein ZO-1 were evaluated.
RESULTS: MAP was significantly lowered after blood loss; EA at ST36 improved the blood pressure at corresponding time points 3 and 12 h after hemorrhage. EA at ST36 reduced tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin (IL)-6 levels in both plasma and intestine homogenates after blood loss and DFR, while vagotomy or intraperitoneal injection of α-BGT before EA at ST36 reversed its anti-inflammatory effects, and EA at ST36 did not influence IL-10 levels in plasma and intestine. EA at ST36 alleviated the injury of intestinal villus, the gut injury score being significantly lower than that of EAN group (1.85 ± 0.33 vs 3.78 ± 0.59, P < 0.05). EA at ST36 decreased intestinal permeability to FITC-dextran compared with EAN group (856.95 ng/mL ± 90.65 ng/mL vs 2305.62 ng/mL ± 278.32 ng/mL, P < 0.05). EA at ST36 significantly preserved ZO-1 protein expression and localization at 12 h after hemorrhage. However, EA at non-channel acupoints had no such effect, and abdominal vagotomy and α-BGT treatment could weaken or eliminate the effects of EA at ST36. Besides, EA at ST36 decreased blood aminotransferase, MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase and creatinine vs EAN group at corresponding time points. At the end of 12-h experiment, the survival rate of the EA group was significantly higher than that of the other groups.
CONCLUSION: EA at ST36 attenuates the systemic inflammatory response, protects intestinal barrier integrity, improves organ function and survival rate after hemorrhagic shock via activating the cholinergic anti-inflammatory mechanism.
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Chen CY, Chern RS, Liao MH, Chang YH, Hsu JYC, Chien CH. The Possible Neuronal Mechanism of Acupuncture: Morphological Evidence of the Neuronal Connection between Groin A-Shi Point and Uterus. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2013; 2013:429186. [PMID: 23533481 PMCID: PMC3603327 DOI: 10.1155/2013/429186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Somatovisceral reflex suggested that the somatic stimulation could affect visceral function like acupuncture which treats diseases by stimulating acupoints. The neuronal connection between somatic point and visceral organ was not clear. Uterine pain referred to the groin region has long been recognized clinically. Wesselmann, using neurogenic plasma extravasation method, showed that uterine pain was referred to the groin region through a neuronal mechanism (Wesselmann and Lai 1997). This connection could be considered through the somatovisceral reflex pathway. However, the relay center of this pathway is still not clearly identified. In the present study, bee venom was injected in the groin region to induce central Fos expression to map the sensory innervation of groin region. Pseudorabies virus (PrV), a transneuronal tracer, was injected in the uterus to identify the higher motor control of the uterus. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed the Fos expression and PrV-infected double-labeled neurons in the nucleus of solitary tract (NTS), the dorsal motor nucleus of vagus (DMX), and the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN). These results suggest a somatoparasympathetic neuronal connection (groin-spinal dorsal horn-NTS/DMX-uterus) and a somatosympathetic neuronal connection (groin-spinal dorsal horn-NTS-PVN-uterus). These two neuronal connections could be the prerequisites to the neuronal basis of the somatovisceral reflex and also the neuronal mechanism of acupuncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yen Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Rey-Shyong Chern
- Graduate Institute and Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 1, Shuefu Road, Neipu, Pingtung 912, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Huei Liao
- Graduate Institute and Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 1, Shuefu Road, Neipu, Pingtung 912, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsien Chang
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Yu C. Hsu
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsien Chien
- Graduate Institute and Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 1, Shuefu Road, Neipu, Pingtung 912, Taiwan
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18
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Chang IA, Namgung U. Induction of regenerative responses of injured sciatic nerve by pharmacopuncture therapy in rats. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2013; 6:89-97. [PMID: 23591004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2012.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2012] [Revised: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although recent studies report that combined treatment of herbal drugs with acupuncture can improve clinical efficacy in traditional oriental medicine, experimental evidence that supports this pharmacopuncture therapy is rare thus far. Here, we investigated the effects of the herbal drug recipe Sciatica 5 (SCTA5) and acupuncture stimulation on gall bladder 30 (GB30) on regenerative responses of injured sciatic nerve in rats. Treatment of cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons with SCTA5 improved neurite outgrowth. In vivo regenerative responses, in terms of distal extension of regenerating axons and retrogradely-labeled DRG neurons, were improved by either injury site application of SCTA5 or GB30 acupuncture stimulation and further increased by SCTA5 pharmacopuncture on GB30 acupoint. Moreover, combined treatment of SCTA5 and GB30 was more effective than singular treatments in inducing Cdc2 kinase and accompanying vimentin phosphorylation in Schwann cells of the injured nerve. These results suggest that SCTA5 and GB30 therapies may be cooperative in facilitating axonal regeneration in the injured peripheral nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Ae Chang
- Department of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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