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Xi H, Wu W, Qin S, Wang X, Liu C. Effects of electroacupuncture on the ventral tegmental area- nucleus accumbens dopamine pathway in rats with chronic sleep deprivation. Acupunct Med 2023; 41:336-344. [PMID: 36655631 DOI: 10.1177/09645284221146197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insomnia is a well-recognized clinical sleep disorder in the adult population. It has been established that acupuncture has a clinical effects in the treatment of insomnia; however, research on the underlying neural circuits involved in these effects is limited. METHODS The modified multiple platform method (MMPM) was used to establish a rat model of chronic sleep deprivation (CSD). Forty rats were randomly divided into a control (Con) group, (untreated) CSD group, electroacupuncture-treated CSD group (CSD + EA) and estazolam-treated CSD group (CSD + Estazolam group) with n = 10 per group. In the CSD + EA group, EA was delivered at Yintang and unilateral HT7 (left and right treated every other day) with continuous waves (2 Hz frequency) for 30 min/day over 7 consecutive days. In the CSD + Estazolam groups, estazolam was administered by oral gavage (0.1 mg/kg) for 7 consecutive days. The open field test (OFT) was used to observe behavioral changes. Immunofluorescence assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to observe the effects of EA on the ventral tegmental area (VTA)-nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine (DA) pathway. We also assessed the effects of EA on the expression of dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) and dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) in the NAc, which are the downstream targets of the VTA-NAc DA pathway. RESULTS After CSD was established by MMPM, rats exhibited increased autonomous activity and increased excitability of the VTA-NAc DA pathway, with increased VTA and NAc DA content, increased D1R expression and decreased D2R expression in the NAc. EA appeared to reduce the autonomous ability of CSD rats, leading to lower DA content in the VTA and NAc, reduced expression of D1R in the NAc and increased expression of D2R. Most importantly, EA produced effects similar to estazolam with respect to the general condition of rats with CSD and regulation of the VTA-NAc DA pathway. CONCLUSIONS The therapeutic effect of EA in chronic insomnia may be mediated by reduced excitability of the VTA-NAc DA pathway, with lower DA content in the VTA and NAc, downregulated expression of D1R in the NAc and increased expression of D2R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Xi
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhong Wu
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shan Qin
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Wang
- Physical Examination Center, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chengyong Liu
- Department of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Zhang P, Lan X, Fan B, Chen Y, Wei X, Li X, Fan N, Tang C, Lu L. A protocol for the integration of multi-omics bioinformatics: Mechanism of acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy for alcohol use disorder. Front Neurol 2023; 13:977487. [PMID: 36686540 PMCID: PMC9849375 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.977487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has become a significant global factor in various diseases. As a non-pharmacological therapy, certain therapeutic potential has been found in acupuncture; however, in-depth mechanistic studies related to acupuncture for patients with AUD are still insufficient. Methods Based on a randomized control design and a multi-omics analysis plan, this protocol details the recruitment (42 AUD patients), group allocation (21 in acupuncture group vs. 21 in sham acupuncture group), intervention and follow-up (replacement drugs as a normal treatment, 2 weeks acupuncture duration, and 3 month follow-up), and data collection and analytical processes. For the clinical outcomes, in addition to the time required for alcohol withdrawal symptoms to subside as the primary outcome, changes in the alcohol withdrawal symptoms, alcohol craving, mood dysfunction, sleep disorder, fatigue, self-efficacy, gastrointestinal symptoms, the quality of life, and the relapse outcomes will be compared between the groups to confirm the acupuncture clinical effectiveness on alcohol withdraw. The gut microbiome and the fecal metabolomics will also be assessed to explore the association of the structure and the function of gut microflora and the mediation of acupuncture effect on AUD fully utilizing gut microflora multi-modal data and clinical information, via the combination of multi-omics methods, feature screening algorithms and appropriate models. Discussion The results of this study may help to strengthen clinical evidence of the mechanism of acupuncture intervention in patients with AUD, through understanding of the regulatory mechanism of acupuncture in the gut microbiome and its metabolism as well as AUD-related clinical manifestations. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200058120. Registered on 24 Mar 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiming Zhang
- Clinical Research and Big Data Laboratory, South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaochang Lan
- Department of Substance Dependence, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Baochao Fan
- Clinical Research and Big Data Laboratory, South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yiming Chen
- Clinical Research and Big Data Laboratory, South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaojing Wei
- Clinical Research and Big Data Laboratory, South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiangli Li
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ni Fan
- Department of Substance Dependence, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chunzhi Tang
- Clinical Research and Big Data Laboratory, South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Liming Lu
- Clinical Research and Big Data Laboratory, South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Dahchour A, Ward RJ. Changes in Brain Dopamine Extracellular Concentration after Ethanol Administration; Rat Microdialysis Studies. Alcohol Alcohol 2021; 57:165-175. [PMID: 34693981 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agab072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this review is to evaluate microdialysis studies where alterations in the dopaminergic system have been evaluated after different intoxication states, in animals showing preference or not for alcohol, as well as during alcohol withdrawal. METHODS Ethanol administration induces varying alterations in dopamine microdialysate concentrations, thereby modulating the functional output of the dopaminergic system. RESULTS Administration of low doses of ethanol, intraperitoneally, intravenously, orally or directly into the nucleus accumbens, NAc, increases mesolimbic dopamine, transmission, as shown by increases in dopamine content. Chronic alcohol administration to rats, which show alcohol-dependent behaviour, induced little change in basal dopamine microdialysis content. In contrast, reduced basal dopamine content occurred after ethanol withdrawal, which might be the stimulus to induce alcohol cravings and consumption. Intermittent alcohol consumption did not identify any consistent changes in dopamine transmission. Animals which have been selectively or genetically bred for alcohol preference did not show consistent changes in basal dopamine content although, exhibited a significant ethanol-evoked dopamine response by comparison to non-preference animals. CONCLUSIONS Microdialysis has provided valuable information about ethanol-evoked dopamine release in the different animal models of alcohol abuse. Acute ethanol administration increases dopamine transmission in the rat NAc whereas chronic ethanol consumption shows variable results which might reflect whether the rat is prior to or experiencing ethanol withdrawal. Ethanol withdrawal significantly decreases the extracellular dopamine content. Such changes in dopamine surges will contribute to both drug dependence, e.g. susceptibility to drug withdrawal, and addiction, by compromising the ability to react to normal dopamine fluctuations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkader Dahchour
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Clinical Neurosciences Laboratory, Faulty of medicine and Pharmacy. Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Imouzzer Road, Fez 30000, Morocco
| | - Roberta J Ward
- Centre for Neuroinflammation & Neurodegeneration, Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
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Sauchinone Blocks Ethanol Withdrawal-Induced Anxiety but Spares Locomotor Sensitization: Involvement of Nitric Oxide in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6670212. [PMID: 34035825 PMCID: PMC8116157 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6670212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Both the positive (manifested by locomotor sensitization) and negative (withdrawal symptoms) reinforcing effects of ethanol (EtOH) involve central nitric oxide (NO) signaling. Sauchinone (a bioactive lignan in Saururus chinensis) has been shown to improve methamphetamine-induced behavioral and neurochemical changes via the NO signaling pathway. Thus, this study evaluated the effects of sauchinone on locomotor sensitization and anxiety during EtOH withdrawal (EtOHW). Male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with 1.5 g/kg/day of EtOH (20%, vol/vol) via intraperitoneal injection for 28 days, followed by a 3-day withdrawal. During withdrawal, the rats were given intragastric sauchinone (2.5, 7.5, or 25 mg/kg/day) once a day. EtOH locomotor sensitization was determined by challenging EtOHW rats with 0.75 g/kg EtOH, while EtOHW-induced anxiety was assessed using the elevated plus maze (EPM). None of the three doses of sauchinone affected EtOH locomotor sensitization. However, in the EPM, treatment of EtOHW rats with sauchinone at 7.5 or 25 mg/kg/day increased both the number of entries into and the time spent in the open arms. Moreover, the two doses of sauchinone inhibited the oversecretion of plasma corticosterone during EtOHW. In the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), EtOHW increased NO production, enhanced gene and protein expression of both inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS), and also elevated protein levels of corticotropin-releasing factor, which were all inhibited by 25 mg/kg/day sauchinone. In an in vitro experiment, sauchinone (3, 10, and 30 μM) inhibited H2O2-stimulated nNOS protein expression in neuronal PC12 cells. Finally, intra-BNST infusion of sodium nitroprusside, a NO donor, after sauchinone (25 mg/kg/day) administration, abolished its expected anxiolytic effect. Taken together, these results indicate that sauchinone attenuates anxiety-like behavior in rats during EtOHW but spares EtOH locomotor sensitization, and the anxiolytic effect is mediated via the NO signaling pathway in the BNST.
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Bidirectional role of acupuncture in the treatment of drug addiction. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:382-397. [PMID: 33839169 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronically relapsing disorder, affecting people from all walks of life. Studies of acupuncture effects on drug addiction are intriguing in light of the fact that acupuncture can be used as a convenient therapeutic intervention for treating drug addiction by direct activation of brain pathway. The current review aims to discuss the neurobiological mechanisms underlying acupuncture's effectiveness in the treatment of drug addiction, on the basis of two different theories (the incentive sensitization theory and the opponent process theory) that have seemingly opposite view on the role of the mesolimbic reward pathways in mediating compulsive drug-seeking behavior. This review provides evidence that acupuncture may reduce relapse to drug-seeking behavior by regulating neurotransmitters involved in drug craving modulation via somatosensory afferent mechanisms. Also, acupuncture normalizes hyper-reactivity or hypoactivity of the mesolimbic dopamine system in these opposed processes in drug addiction, suggesting bidirectional role of acupuncture in regulation of drug addiction. This proposes that acupuncture may reduce drug craving by correcting both dysfunctions of the mesolimbic dopamine pathway.
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Ferrari LF, Pei J, Zickella M, Rey C, Zickella J, Ramirez A, Taylor NE. D2 Receptors in the Periaqueductal Gray/Dorsal Raphe Modulate Peripheral Inflammatory Hyperalgesia via the Rostral Ventral Medulla. Neuroscience 2021; 463:159-173. [PMID: 33826955 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine neurons in the periaqueductal gray (PAG)/dorsal raphe are key modulators of antinociception with known supraspinal targets. However, no study has directly tested whether these neurons contribute to descending pain inhibition. We hypothesized that PAG dopamine neurons contribute to the analgesic effect of D-amphetamine via a mechanism that involves descending modulation via the rostral ventral medulla (RVM). Male C57BL/6 mice showed increased c-FOS expression in PAG dopamine neurons and a significant increase in paw withdrawal latency to thermal stimulation after receiving a systemic injection of D-amphetamine. Targeted microinfusion of D-amphetamine, L-DOPA, or the selective D2 agonist quinpirole into the PAG produced analgesia, while a D1 agonist, chloro APB, had no effect. In addition, inhibition of D2 receptors in the PAG by eticlopride prevented the systemic D-amphetamine analgesic effect. D-amphetamine and PAG D2 receptor-mediated analgesia were inhibited by intra-RVM injection of lidocaine or the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol, indicating a PAG-RVM signaling pathway in this model of analgesia. Finally, both systemic D-amphetamine and local PAG microinjection of quinpirole, inhibited inflammatory hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan. This hyperalgesia was transiently restored by intra-PAG injection of eticlopride, as well as RVM microinjection of muscimol. We conclude that D-amphetamine analgesia is partially mediated by descending inhibition and that D2 receptors in the PAG are responsible for this effect via modulating neurons that project to the RVM. These results further our understanding of the antinociceptive effects of dopamine and elucidate a mechanism by which clinically available dopamine modulators produce analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz F Ferrari
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, RM 3C444 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States.
| | - JunZhu Pei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, United States.
| | - Michael Zickella
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, RM 3C444 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Charles Rey
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, RM 3C444 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Jacqueline Zickella
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, RM 3C444 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Anna Ramirez
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, RM 3C444 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States.
| | - Norman E Taylor
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, RM 3C444 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States.
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Chen Y, Gong Y, Huai X, Gu X, Su D, Yu W, Xie H. Effects of transcutaneous electrical acupuncture point stimulation on peripheral capillary oxygen saturation in elderly patients undergoing colonoscopy with sedation: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Acupunct Med 2020; 39:292-298. [PMID: 33256456 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420960479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study investigated whether transcutaneous electrical acupuncture point stimulation (TEAS) at PC6 can reduce the proportion of elderly patients experiencing a drop of ⩾4% in peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) while undergoing colonoscopy under sedation. METHODS A total of 32 elderly patients (aged ⩾ 65 years) scheduled for colonoscopy were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either real or sham TEAS (treatment or control groups, respectively). Each patient received oxygen (2 L/min) delivered routinely via nasal cannula. The treatment group was given TEAS at PC6 for 20 min at 2 Hz frequency and 6 mA intensity; the control group underwent the same procedures but with zero frequency/intensity. SpO2 and other physiological parameters were measured prior to sedation and colonoscopy (baseline) and at seven other timepoints through departure from recovery. Depth of anesthesia was measured using a Narcotrend monitor. RESULTS Significantly fewer patients in the treatment group experienced a ⩾4% decrease from baseline SpO2 (2/16) than patients in the control group (10/16; p = 0.004). The two groups were comparable with regard to respiratory rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate. CONCLUSION TEAS applied at PC6 with 2 Hz frequency was feasible and may be helpful in reducing the rate of hypoxia in elderly patients during colonoscopy.Trial registration number: NCT03775122 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongming Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yin Gong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaorong Huai
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiyao Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Diansan Su
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weifeng Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Nie J, Wei X, Xu X, Li N, Li Y, Zhao Y, Guan Y, Ge F, Guan X. Electro-acupuncture alleviates adolescent cocaine exposure-enhanced anxiety-like behaviors in adult mice by attenuating the activities of PV interneurons in PrL. FASEB J 2020; 34:11913-11924. [PMID: 32683743 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000346rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We recently found that adolescent cocaine exposure (ACE) resulted in an enhancement of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system in the prelimbic cortex (PrL) of adult mice. Here, we aim to further investigate the role of GABAergic transmission, especially parvalbumin (PV) interneurons within PrL in the development of ACE-induced anxiety-like behavior, and to assess whether and how electro-acupuncture (EA) therapeutically manage the ACE-induced abnormal behaviors in adulthood. ACE mice exhibited the enhanced anxiety-like behaviors in their adulthood, accompanied by increased GABAergic transmission and PV interneurons in PrL. Chemogenetic blocking PV interneurons in PrL alleviated ACE-enhanced anxiety-like behaviors in mice. Importantly, 37-day EA treatments (mixture of 2 Hz/100 Hz, 1 mA, 30 minutes once a day) at the acupoints of Yintang (GV29) and Baihui (GV20) also alleviated ACE-induced anxiety-like behaviors, and rescued ACE-impaired GABAergic neurotransmitter system and PV interneurons in PrL. In parallel, EA treatments further suppressed the activities of pyramidal neurons in PrL, suggesting that EA treatments seem to perform it beneficial effects on the ACE-induced abnormal emotional behaviors by "calming down" the whole PrL. Collectively, these findings revealed that hyper-function of GABAergic transmission, especially mediating by PV interneurons in PrL may be key etiology underlying ACE-induced anxiety-like behaviors. At least by normalizing the function of GABAergic and PV interneurons, EA may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for managing adolescent substance use-related emotional disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxun Nie
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wei
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xing Xu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Nanqin Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuehan Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yonghua Zhao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Feifei Ge
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaowei Guan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Li LB, Kim YW, Wang YH, Bai L, Zhu XD, Zhao ZL, Lee CW, Jiao Y, Wu T, Cai ZZ, Kim SC, An WG, Yang CH, Cui GC, Zhao RJ. Methanol extract of semen Ziziphi Spinosae attenuates ethanol withdrawal anxiety by improving neuropeptide signaling in the central amygdala. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 19:147. [PMID: 31234859 PMCID: PMC6591875 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2546-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethanol withdrawal (EtOHW) anxiety is a crucial risk factor for alcoholic relapse. The neuropeptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) acts upon its receptor (NOP) to antagonize corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and elicit anxiolytic actions. Semen Ziziphi Spinosae (SZS), a prototypical hypnotic-sedative herb in Oriental medicine, exhibits anxiolytic effects during nicotine withdrawal by improving amygdaloid CRF/CRF1 receptor (CRFR1) signaling. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of SZS on EtOHW anxiety and the involvement of amygdaloid CRF/CRFR1 and N/OFQ/NOP pathways. METHODS Male Sprague Dawley rats received intraperitoneal injections of 2 g/kg EtOH (20% v/v) once daily for 28 d followed by a 3-d withdrawal. During EtOHW, the rats were given once-daily intragastric treatments of a methanol extract of SZS (MESZS, 60 or 180 mg/kg/d). Anxiety-like behaviors were measured with the open field (OF) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests, and plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels were examined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. mRNA and protein expression levels of the neuropeptides and their receptors were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays. RESULTS MESZS increased the distance traveled in the center zone of the OF and dose-dependently elongated the duration of staying in the center zone in EtOHW rats. MESZS increased both the number of entries into and the time spent in the open arms of the EPM by EtOHW rats. And, MESZS inhibited the over secretion of plasma CORT during EtOHW. EtOHW enhanced CRF and CRFR1 gene and protein expression in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA), which were inhibited by 180 mg/kg/d MESZS. EtOHW increased amygdaloid NOP mRNA and protein expression but spared N/OFQ mRNA expression, and 180 mg/kg/d MESZS further promoted these increases. Additionally, a post-MESZS intra-CeA infusion of either CRF or the selective NOP antagonist UFP-101 abolished the expected anxiolytic effect of 180 mg/kg/d MESZS. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that MESZS ameliorates EtOHW anxiety by improving both CRF/CRFR1 and N/OFQ/NOP transmissions in the CeA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Bo Li
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Young Woo Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, 38610, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Hua Wang
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Li Bai
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Xiao Dong Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, 157011, China
| | - Zheng Lin Zhao
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Chul Won Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 626-870, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Jiao
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Zhen Zhen Cai
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Sang Chan Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, 38610, Republic of Korea
| | - Won G An
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, 626-870, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Ha Yang
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, 38610, Republic of Korea
| | - Guang Cheng Cui
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China.
| | - Rong Jie Zhao
- Department of Psychopharmacology, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, 333 Bukuibei Street, Jianhua District, Qiqihar, 161006, China.
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Huang Y, Chen JC, Chen CM, Tsai CH, Lu MK. Paired Associative Electroacupuncture and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Humans. Front Hum Neurosci 2019; 13:49. [PMID: 30809140 PMCID: PMC6379477 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pairing transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with specific stimulus-intervals induces associative motor plasticity at the primary motor cortex (M1). Electroacupuncture (EA) is an established medical technique in the eastern countries. This study investigates whether EA paired with TMS induces distinct M1 motor plasticity. Fifteen healthy, right-handed subjects (aged 23.6 ± 2.0 years, eight women) were studied. Two-hundred and twenty-five pairs of TMS of the left M1 preceded by right EA at acupoint “Neiguan” [Pericardium 6 (PC6), located 2 decimeters proximal from the wrist wrinkle] were respectively applied with the interstimulus interval (ISI) of individual somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) N20 latency plus 2 ms (N20+2) and minus 5 ms (N20-5) with at least 1-week interval. The paired stimulation was delivered at a rate of 0.25 Hz. Sham TMS with a sham coil was adopted to examine the low-frequency EA influence on M1 in eleven subjects. M1 excitability was assessed by motor-evoked potential (MEP) recruitment curve with five TMS intensity levels, short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), intracortical facilitation (ICF) and cerebellar inhibition (CBI) at the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscle of the right hand before and after the EA-M1 paired associative stimulation (PAS). In addition, median nerve SSEPs and H-reflex were respectively measured to monitor somatosensory and spinal excitability. The MEP showed significantly facilitated after the sham EA-M1 PAS while tested with 80% of the TMS intensity producing on average 1 mV amplitude (i.e., MEP1 mV) in the resting APB muscle. It was also facilitated while tested with 90% MEP1 mV irrespective of the stimulation conditions. The SSEP showed a higher amplitude from the real EA-M1 PAS compared to that from the sham EA-M1 PAS. No significant change was found on SICI, ICF, CBI and H-reflex. Findings suggest that repetitive low frequency EA paired with real TMS did not induce spike-timing dependent motor plasticity but EA paired with sham TMS induced specific M1 excitability change. Complex sensory afferents with dispersed time locked to the sensorimotor cortical area could hamper instead of enhancing the induction of the spike-timing dependent plasticity (STDP) in M1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Huang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Medical College, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Cheng Chen
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Neurology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Medical College, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Ming Chen
- Department of Radiology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chon-Haw Tsai
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Neurology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Medical College, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Kuei Lu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Medical College, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Neurology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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11
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Acupuncture on the Stress-Related Drug Relapse to Seeking. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:5367864. [PMID: 30416533 PMCID: PMC6207895 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5367864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronic relapsing disease, which causes serious social and economic problems. The most important trial for the successful treatment of drug addiction is to prevent the high rate of relapse to drug-seeking behaviors. Opponent process as a motivational theory with excessive drug seeking in the negative reinforcement of drug dependence reflects both loss of brain reward system and recruitment of brain stress system. The negative emotional state produced by brain stress system during drug withdrawal might contribute to the intense drug craving and drive drug-seeking behaviors via negative reinforcement mechanisms. Decrease in dopamine neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens and recruitment of corticotropin-releasing factor in the extended amygdala are hypothesized to be implicated in mediating this motivated behavior. Also, a brain stress response system is hypothesized to increase drug craving and contribute to relapse to drug-seeking behavior during the preoccupation and anticipation stage of dependence caused by the exposure to stress characterized as the nonspecific responses to any demands on the body. Acupuncture has proven to be effective for reducing drug addiction and stress-related psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, acupuncture has been shown to correct reversible brain malfunctions by regulating drug addiction and stress-related neurotransmitters. Accordingly, it seems reasonable to propose that acupuncture attenuates relapse to drug-seeking behavior through inhibition of stress response. In this review, a brief description of stress in relapse to drug-seeking behavior and the effects of acupuncture were presented.
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12
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Fleckenstein J, Krüger P, Ittner KP. Effects of single-point acupuncture (HT7) in the prevention of test anxiety: Results of a RCT. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202659. [PMID: 30161153 PMCID: PMC6116988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The number of students using neuro enhancement to improve their performance and to prevent test anxiety is increasing. The acupuncture point Heart 7 (HT7) has been described as being prominent in reducing states of anxiety. Methods We conducted a randomized placebo-controlled, two-armed pilot trial to investigate the efficacy of a single-point acupuncture treatment at bilateral HT7 compared to sham laser acupuncture on test anxiety. Test anxiety was induced applying the standardised protocol of the Trier Social Stress Test. Outcome measures included saliva samples analysed for cortisol and amylase, anxiety questionnaires and heart rate variability. Results Twenty-five male subjects (age 28 ± 5 years) were allocated to either verum acupuncture (n = 12) or sham laser acupuncture (n = 13). Cortisol peaked 20 min after the stress test (2-fold, 18.11 ± 2 nmol/l) and amylase 10 min after (2-fold, 259 ± 49 U/ml) with no difference between groups. There were no differences between groups regarding either anxiety questionnaires or physiological parameters. Compared to reference data (3-fold increase in cortisol), increase in stress hormones and heart rate seemed somewhat reduced. Conclusions Acupuncture may be a possible approach for the treatment of anxiety. Due to the lack of a no control treatment group, we cannot determine the magnitude of possible specific needle effects at HT7 to promote specific effects in the neuroendocrine system. Finally this study only examines the efficacy of a single time treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Fleckenstein
- Department of TCM/Acupuncture, Institute of Complementary Medicine, University of Bern, Personalhaus 4 Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
- University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, Regensburg, Germany
- Department of Sports Medicine, Institute of Sports Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Peter Krüger
- University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Karl-Peter Ittner
- University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, Regensburg, Germany
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13
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Liu X, Qin Z, Zhu X, Yao Q, Liu Z. Systematic review of acupuncture for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Acupunct Med 2018; 36:275-283. [PMID: 30030272 PMCID: PMC6176524 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2016-011283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Acupuncture has been used as a potential therapy for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), but evidence for its effects on this condition is limited. Objective To assess the effects and safety of acupuncture for AWS. Data sources Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Chinese Biomedicine Literature (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wan-Fang Database were searched from their inception to August 2016. Study eligibility criteria Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of drug plus acupuncture or acupuncture alone for the treatment of AWS were included. Data collection and analysis Continuous data were expressed as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Dichotomous data were expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI. Results Eleven RCTs with 875 participants were included. In the acute phase, two trials reported no difference between drug plus acupuncture and drug plus sham acupuncture in the reduction of craving for alcohol; however, two positive trials reported that drug plus acupuncture was superior to drug alone in the alleviation of psychological symptoms. In the protracted phase, one trial reported acupuncture was superior to sham acupuncture in reducing the craving for alcohol, one trial reported no difference between acupuncture and drug (disulfiram), and one trial reported acupuncture was superior to sham acupuncture for the alleviation of psychological symptoms. Adverse effects were tolerable and not severe. Conclusion There was nosignificant difference between acupuncture (plus drug) and sham acupuncture (plus drug) with respect to the primary outcome measure of craving for alcohol among participants with AWS, and no difference in completion rates (pooled results). There was limited evidence from individual trials that acupuncture may reduce alcohol craving in the protracted phase and help alleviate psychological symptoms; however, given concerns about the quantity and quality of included studies, further large-scale and well-conducted RCTs are needed. Protocol registration PROSPERO CRD42016039862.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zongshi Qin
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhu
- Department of Surgery, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Yao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhishun Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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14
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Choi YJ, Kim NJ, Zhao RJ, Kim DH, Yang CH, Kim HY, Gwak YS, Jang EY, Kim JS, Lee YK, Lee HJ, Lee SN, Lim SC, Lee BH. Acupuncture suppresses intravenous methamphetamine self-administration through GABA receptor's mediation. Neurosci Lett 2017; 662:65-70. [PMID: 29030218 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Methamphetamine is one of the widely abused drugs. In spite of a number of studies, there is still little successful therapy to suppress the methamphetamine abuse. Acupuncture has shown to attenuate the reinforcing effects of psychostimulant. Based on, the present study investigated if acupuncture could suppress intravenous methamphetamine self-administration behavior. In addition, a possible neuronal mechanism was investigated. MATERIALS & METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 270-300g were trained to intake food pellet. After catheter implantation, animal was trained to self-administer methamphetamine (0.05mg/kg) intravenously using fixed ratio 1 schedule in daily 2h session during 3 weeks. After training, rats who established baseline (infusion variation less than 20% of the mean for 3 consecutive days) received acupuncture treatment on the next day. Acupuncture was performed at each acupoint manually. In the second experiment, the selective antagonists of GABAA or GABAB receptor were given before acupuncture to investigate the possible neuronal involvement of GABA receptor pathway in the acupuncture effects. C-Fos expression was examined in the nucleus accumbens to support behavioral data. RESULTS Acupuncture at HT7, but not at control acupoint LI5, reduced the self-administration behavior significantly. Also, the effects of acupuncture were blocked by the GABA receptor antagonists. C-Fos expression was shown to be parallel with the behavioral data. CONCLUSIONS Results of this study have shown that acupuncture at HT7 suppressed methamphetamine self-administration through GABA receptor system, suggesting that acupuncture at HT7 can be a useful therapy for the treatment of methamphetamine abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jeong Choi
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Jun Kim
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Rong Jie Zhao
- School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, 161006, China
| | - Da Hye Kim
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Ha Yang
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Young Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Young S Gwak
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Young Jang
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Su Kim
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Kyu Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jong Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Nam Lee
- Department of Qigong, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Chul Lim
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea.
| | - Bong Hyo Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Effect of catechol-O-methyltransferase Val158Met polymorphism on resting-state brain default mode network after acupuncture stimulation. Brain Imaging Behav 2017; 12:798-805. [DOI: 10.1007/s11682-017-9735-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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16
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Effects of Electroacupuncture on Methamphetamine-Induced Behavioral Changes in Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:5642708. [PMID: 28400844 PMCID: PMC5376430 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5642708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is a major drug of abuse worldwide, and no efficient therapeutic strategies for treating METH addiction are currently available. Continuous METH use can cause behavioral upregulation or psychosis. The dopaminergic pathways, particularly the neural circuitry from the ventral tegmental area to the nucleus accumbens (NAc), have a critical role in this behavioral stage. Acupuncture has been used for treating diseases in China for more than 2000 years. According to a World Health Organization report, acupuncture can be used to treat several functional disorders, including substance abuse. In addition, acupuncture is effective against opioids addiction. In this study, we used electroacupuncture (EA) for treating METH-induced behavioral changes and investigated the possible therapeutic mechanism. Results showed that EA at the unilateral Zhubin (KI9)–Taichong (LR3) significantly reduced METH-induced behavioral sensitization and conditioned place preference. In addition, both dopamine and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) levels decreased but monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) levels increased in the NAc of the METH-treated mice receiving EA compared with those not receiving EA. EA may be a useful nonpharmacological approach for treating METH-induced behavioral changes, probably because it reduces the METH-induced TH expression and dopamine levels and raises MAO-A expression in the NAc.
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17
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Acupuncture for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Meta-Analysis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:7823278. [PMID: 28167975 PMCID: PMC5266803 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7823278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Empirical research has produced mixed results regarding the effects of acupuncture on the treatment of alcohol use disorder in humans. Few studies have provided a comprehensive review or a systematic overview of the magnitude of the treatment effect of acupuncture on alcoholism. This study investigated the effects of acupuncture on alcohol-related symptoms and behaviors in patients with this disorder. The PubMed database was searched until 23 August 2016, and reference lists from review studies were also reviewed. Seventeen studies were identified for a full-text inspection, and seven (243 patients) of these met our inclusion criteria. The outcomes assessed at the last posttreatment point and any available follow-up data were extracted from each of the studies. Our meta-analysis demonstrated that an acupuncture intervention had a stronger effect on reducing alcohol-related symptoms and behaviors than did the control intervention (g = 0.67). A beneficial but weak effect of acupuncture treatment was also found in the follow-up data (g = 0.29). Although our analysis showed a significant difference between acupuncture and the control intervention in patients with alcohol use disorder, this meta-analysis is limited by the small number of studies included. Thus, a larger cohort study is required to provide a firm conclusion.
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