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Park JY, Jang JH, Kang YH, Jeon S, Kim SN, Ryu YH, Park HJ. Peripheral Rho-associated protein kinase activation mediates acupuncture analgesia. Integr Med Res 2024; 13:101051. [PMID: 39219984 PMCID: PMC11364124 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2024.101051] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Acupuncture has been proven effective for various types of pain, and peripheral molecular signals around acupuncture-treated areas have been suggested to contribute to the analgesic effects of acupuncture. However, the underlying mechanism from these peripheral molecular signals to central ones remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether peripheral Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) activation induced by acupuncture treatment mediates acupuncture analgesia, and also to investigate the relationship between ROCK activation and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), which has previously been proven to mediate acupuncture analgesia and other related molecular changes during acupuncture. Methods Acupuncture was treated at the bilateral GB34 acupoints of C57BL/6 mice, after which changes in ROCK activation and the location of its expression in the skin were analyzed. To verify the role of ROCK in acupuncture analgesia, we administrated ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 (0.3 μg/ul) into the skin before acupuncture treatment with formalin and complete Freund adjuvant (CFA) induced pain models, then the nociceptive responses were analyzed. Results Acupuncture treatment produced ROCK2 activation in the skin after 30 and 60 min, and the histological analyses revealed that ROCK2 was activated in the fibroblast of the dermis. The acupuncture-induced ROCK2 expression was significantly attenuated by the ERK inhibitor, whereas phospho-ERK expression was not inhibited by ROCK inhibitor. In both the formalin- and CFA-induced mouse pain models, acupuncture analgesia was blocked by ROCK inhibitor administration. Conclusion Acupuncture treatment-induced ROCK2 expression is a downstream effector of phospho-ERK in the skin and plays a crucial role in acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yeun Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hwan Jang
- Jaseng Spine and Joint Research Institute, Jaseng Medical Foundation, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yang-Hwa Kang
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Songhee Jeon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Creative Biomedical Scientists at Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Nam Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Hee Ryu
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hi-Joon Park
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Ma SX. Stimuli-evoked NOergic molecules and neuropeptides at acupuncture points and the gracile nucleus contribute to signal transduction of propagated sensation along the meridian through the dorsal medulla-thalamic pathways. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2024; 22:515-522. [PMID: 39214715 PMCID: PMC11439578 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Numerous studies from different international groups have demonstrated that sensations can be propagated along acupuncture channel pathways. The propagated sensation along the channel pathway (PSCP) can be elicited by electroacupuncture (EA), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), manual acupuncture (MA), and heat applied to distal acupuncture points (acupoints). Nitric oxide (NO) levels were reported to be elevated in the gracile nucleus and skin regions near to the EA sites, with higher levels at acupoints associated with an enhanced expression of NO synthase and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1. The stimuli, EA, MA, TENS, and heat, have been used to elicit axonal reflexes, which increase local release of NO and neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene related peptide. Furthermore, the sensation of PSCP along the body surface occurs only ipsilaterally to the stimulated acupoints in various human studies, which does not support the involvement of the spinal-thalamic pathway, which would involve cross over transmission of the signals. The gracile nucleus receives ascending input from the sciatic nerve and responds to somatosensory stimulation mainly on the ipsilateral side via the dorsal column pathway. EA at Zusanli (ST36) increases NO release and expression of NO synthase mainly in the ipsilateral side of the gracile nucleus, while the cardiovascular effects and analgesic responses to EA at ST36 are changed by influences of l-arginine-derived NO synthesis in the ipsilateral gracile nucleus in rats. The stimuli-induced release of NOergic molecules and neuropeptides exist high levels in the acupoints, which contain rich neuronal components and blood vessels. Enhanced NOergic molecules at acupoints cause axon reflexes during the stimuli, which elevate cutaneous blood flow. Elevated NOergic molecules and local blood flow may spread over acupoints one after another along the meridian lines differing from nerve pathways following the stimuli to induce PSCP. The same types of stimulation also elicit NO release in the gracile nucleus, which contributes to the somatosensory signal transduction of PSCP through the dorsal medulla-thalamic pathways. Other substances such as serotonin and catecholamines are proposed to mediate responses and certain effects of acupuncture-like stimulation but their mechanisms are poorly-understood. In this review we summarize the current understanding of the neurobiological processes of PSCP research with an emphasis on recent developments of NO mediating stimulation-evoked axon reflexes and somatosensory signal transduction for PSCP perceptions through the dorsal medulla-thalamic pathways. Please cite this article as: Ma SX. Stimuli-evoked NOergic molecules and neuropeptides at acupuncture points and gracile nucleus contribute to signal transduction of propagated sensation along the meridian through the dorsal medulla-thalamic pathways. J Integr Med. 2024; 22(5): 515-522.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Xing Ma
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA.
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Ma S. Stimuli-induced NOergic Molecules and Neuropeptides Mediated Axon Reflexes Contribute to Tracers along Meridian Pathways. Curr Top Med Chem 2024; 24:393-400. [PMID: 38243932 PMCID: PMC11111350 DOI: 10.2174/0115680266260220240108114337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
An abundance of studies from different international groups have demonstrated tracers along linear pathways resembling meridians over the body surface of humans. All experiments of the studies have been conducted by injection of a radiotracer solution or tracer dyes in a volume of solution into acupuncture points (acupoints). The solution injected into acupoints produces much stronger mechanical stimuli than acupuncture, which causes axon reflex. Anatomical studies have demonstrated that acupoints/meridians exist higher number of small nerve fibers and blood vessels with rich nitric oxide (NO) and neuropeptides in the cutaneous tissues as structures for the biomolecules mediated axon reflexes. Recent advances have determined that NO and calcitonin generelated peptides play crucial roles in the comprehension of the axon reflex. The stimuli-evoked axon reflex and NOergic biomolecules/neuropeptides increase local blood flow with higher levels in acupoints/meridians, which move radioactive substances or tracer dyes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue under a linear path resembling acupoints and meridians, the important phenomena of meridians induced by the stimuli. The evidence and understanding of the biomolecular processes of the tracers along linear pathways resembling meridians have been summarized with an emphasis on recent developments of NO and neuropeptides mediating stimuli-evoked axon reflexes to increase local blood flow with higher levels in acupoints/meridians, which move radioactive substances or tracer dyes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue contributing to tracers along linear pathways resembling meridians in this mini-review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengxing Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, United States
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Feng BW, Rong PJ. Acupoint stimulation for long COVID: A promising intervention:. WORLD JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE-MOXIBUSTION 2023:S1003-5257(23)00038-7. [PMID: 37363407 PMCID: PMC10232723 DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
"Long COVID" is a sustained symptom following infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). According to recent statistics, at least 65 million people have long COVID, which poses a long-term threat to human health. The pathogenic mechanisms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are complex and affect multiple organs and systems. Common symptoms include palpitations, breathing difficulties, attention and memory deficits, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. It is difficult to achieve satisfactory treatment effect with a single intervention. Currently, treatment strategies for long COVID are still in the exploratory stage, and there is an urgent need to find appropriate and effective methods for long COVID treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine is effective in treating the various phases of COVID-19. Previous studies have shown that acupoint stimulation therapy is effective in improving palpitations, dyspnea, cognitive impairment, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms in patients. According to previous studies, acupoint stimulation may improve various symptoms related to long COVID. This paper discusses the potential application value of acupoint stimulation in the treatment of long COVID-related symptoms, based on the common sequelae of various systems involved in long COVID, and the effect of acupoint stimulation in the treatment of similar symptoms and diseases in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Wen Feng
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China (,100700,)
| | - Pei-Jing Rong
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China (,100700,)
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Changes in Acupuncture-Induced Specific Acupoint Neurotransmitters are Possibly Related to Their Physiological Functions in Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:4849528. [PMID: 36865739 PMCID: PMC9974273 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4849528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated changes in neurotransmitters induced by the application of electroacupuncture (EA) at Zusanli (ST36) and Neiguan (PC6). A total of 30 rats were divided into five groups: sham, ST (EA at bilateral ST36 and ST37), ScT (ST plus previous neurectomy of the bilateral sciatic nerves), ScS (sham plus previous neurectomy of the bilateral sciatic nerve), and PC (EA at bilateral PC6 and PC7). The P2X2 receptor expression was stronger in the sham group than in the ST and PC groups (both p < 0.05) but similar between the sham and ScT groups (p > 0.05). Dopamine levels in the extracellular fluid surrounding the acupoints were higher in the PC group than in the sham and ST groups during the postacupuncture period (both p < 0.05). Glutamate levels in the extracellular fluid surrounding the acupoints were higher in the ST group than in the sham group during the acupuncture period (p < 0.05) and higher in the ST group than in the sham and PC groups during the postacupuncture period (both p < 0.05). Serum adrenaline and noradrenaline levels were higher in the PC group than in the sham, ST, and ScT groups (all p < 0.05). Glutamate levels in the CSF were higher in the ST group than in the sham, ScS, and PC groups (all p < 0.05). GABA levels in the CSF were higher in the ST group than in the sham, ScT, and PC groups (all p < 0.05). EA at ST36 and ST37 and PC6 and PC7 exerted an analgesic effect, EA at PC6 and PC7 can enhance heart function, and EA at ST36 and ST37 modulates the cerebral cortex. However, the study needs an evaluation of direct pain behavior, heart function, and brain function in the future.
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Effect of Low- and High-Frequency Auricular Stimulation with Electro-Acupuncture on Cutaneous Microcirculation: A Cross-Over Study in Healthy Subjects. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:medicines10020017. [PMID: 36827217 PMCID: PMC9967478 DOI: 10.3390/medicines10020017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: The regulation of microcirculation depends on the dynamic interaction of different factors: the autonomic nervous system plays a pivotal role in the blood flow and acupuncture can modulate it, obtaining different results depending on the site, the frequency, and the intensity of the stimulation. Methods: 18 healthy subjects have been enrolled and have undergone two sessions of electroacupuncture stimulations: one session using high frequency and one with low frequency. Microcirculation has been monitored continuously during stimulation using the laser Doppler method. Results: The microcirculatory parameters have shown a significant difference between high and low-frequency stimulation, suggesting that low-frequency stimulation is more effective for obtaining a vasodilator effect. Discussion: Our results show that low-frequency stimulation can increase the cutaneous microcirculatory flux, without significantly modifying blood pressure and heart rate. The auricular stimulation causes an increase in the activity of the vagus nerve, increasing the cholinergic activity without acting on post-junctional muscarinic receptors. Conclusion: Auricular acupuncture has a significant impact on the regulation of microcirculation.
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Wang T, Zhu G, Qin L, Wang Q, She C, Xu D, Hu W, Luo K, Lei Y, Gong Y, Ghosh A, Ma D, Ding CL, Wang BY, Guo Y, Ma SS, Hattori M, Takagi Y, Ara K, Higuchi K, Li X, He L, Bai W, Ishida K, Li ST. Kininogen-Nitric Oxide Signaling at Nearby Nonexcited Acupoints after Long-Term Stimulation. JID INNOVATIONS 2021; 1:100038. [PMID: 34909734 PMCID: PMC8659396 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjidi.2021.100038] [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: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture treatment is based on acupoint stimulation; however, the biological basis is not understood. We stimulated one acupoint with catgut embedding for 8 weeks and then used isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation to screen proteins with altered expression in adjacent acupoints of Sprague Dawley rats. We found that kininogen expression was significantly upregulated in the stimulated and the nonstimulated adjacent acupoints along the same meridian. The enhanced kininogen expression was meridian dependent and was most apparent among small vessels in the subcutaneous layer. Enhanced signals of nitric oxide synthases, cGMP-dependent protein kinase, and myosin light chain were also observed at the nonstimulated adjacent acupoints along the same meridian. These findings uncover biological changes at acupoints and suggest the critical role of the kininogen–nitric oxide signaling pathway in acupoint activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Brain Science and Technology Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Geng Zhu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medical Instrument, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Liyue Qin
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen She
- Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongsheng Xu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kenghuo Luo
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Lei
- Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanling Gong
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Arijit Ghosh
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongni Ma
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Lei Ding
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bu-Yi Wang
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shou-Shan Ma
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Yutaka Takagi
- Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Katsutoshi Ara
- Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Xingwang Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin He
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanzhu Bai
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Koichi Ishida
- Kao China Research and Development Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng-Tian Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Development and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Brain Science and Technology Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Ma SX. Nitric Oxide on Pathophysiology of SARS-CoV 19: Toward Possible Role of Acupuncture Treatment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE : IJBS 2021; 17:40-45. [PMID: 35018143 PMCID: PMC8745007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 has quickly become a daunting challenge to global health. In the absence of satisfied therapy, effective treatment interventions are urgently needed. Previous studies have demonstrated that acupuncture is effective at relieving common symptoms of COVID-19 including breathlessness, nausea, insomnia, leukopenia, fatigue, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Experiments have shown that nitric oxide (NO) inhibits the replication cycle of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus with similar structures of COVID-19. Increase in level of NO by using NO gas inhalation has been shown to restore lung function by reducing airway resistance and improving virus-induced lung infections in SARS patients. Recent case report showed that a medical acupuncturist with symptoms consistent with severe COVID pneumonia achieved full recovery by self-administered medical acupuncture and cupping therapy at home. Clinical features and pathophysiology demonstrated that NO deficiency and endothelial dysfunction contribute to the development of COVID-19. Several studies from different groups consistently demonstrated that acupuncture increases NO synthase expression and induces an elevation of NO production and release in plasma and the local skin regions in both animals and humans. It is suggested that exogenous NO supplies or interventions that induce increasing levels of NO can play an important role in protective effects against inflammation and acute lung injury. This article reviews the rationale for mechanisms of NO induction induced by acupuncture in the possible treatment of COVID-19 and highlights its potential for contributing to better clinical outcomes and improving future clinical studies of acupuncture on treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Xing Ma
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
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Ma SX. Low Electrical Resistance Properties of Acupoints: Roles of NOergic Signaling Molecules and Neuropeptides in Skin Electrical Conductance. Chin J Integr Med 2021; 27:563-569. [PMID: 34319572 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-021-3318-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Early studies from several independent laboratories demonstrated that acupoints possess the characteristics of low electrical resistance. New devices are developing to increase the reliability of electrical skin impedance measurements for counteracting the factors including skin dryness, skin thickness, size of the sensing electrode, pressure applied on the electrode, interelectrode distance, room temperature, and humidity. Morphological studies have identified that blood vessels, hair follicles, and nervous components are enhanced in the meridians/acupoints, which represent areas of potentially high neuronal activity. Recent evidence shows that nitric oxide (NO) concentrations are enhanced in skin acupoints/meridians. L-arginine-derived NO synthesis modifies skin norepinephrine (NE) synthesis/release in acupoints/meridians, and NO-NE activations play an important role in mediating the skin conductance responses to electrical stimulation. NOergic signaling molecules interact with gap junction and transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1. Other studies reported that the high conductance at acupoints is a result of the release of the neuropeptides substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide during neurogenic inflammation in the referred pain area. Pathological body conditions caused considerable changes in skin conductance or impedance at acupoints. Although systematic research with an improved equipment and research design to avoid the influencing factors are requested for a definite answer in this field, the results from anatomical and biochemical studies consistently show that acupoints exist higher levels of nervous components, and NOergic signaling molecules and neuropeptides involved in the skin low resistance at acupoints. The increased interest in the acupoints/meridians has led to an open-minded attitude towards understanding this system, which is fundamental important to establish the valid aspects of scientific basis of Chinese medicine mechanisms and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Xing Ma
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 90502, United States.
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Gong Y, Li N, Lv Z, Zhang K, Zhang Y, Yang T, Wang H, Zhao X, Chen Z, Dou B, Chen B, Guo Y, Guo Y, Xu Z. The neuro-immune microenvironment of acupoints-initiation of acupuncture effectiveness. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:189-198. [PMID: 32645257 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.3ab0420-361rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is a centuried and unfading treatment of traditional Chinese medicine, which has been proved to exert curative effects on various disorders. Numerous works have been put in to uncover the effective mechanisms of acupuncture. And the interdependent interaction between acupuncture and acupoint microenvironment is a crucial topic. As a benign minimally invasive stimulation, the insertion and manipulation of needle at acupoint could cause deformation of local connective tissue and secretion of various molecules, such as high mobility group box 1 and ATP. The molecules are secreted into extracellular space and bind to the corresponding receptors thus active NF-κB, MAPK, ERK pathways on mast cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and monocytes/macrophages, among others. This is supposed to trigger following transcription and translation of immune factors and neural active substance, as well as promote the free ion movement (such as Ca2+ influx) and the expansion of blood vessels to recruit more immune cells to acupoint. Finally, acupuncture could enhance network connectivity of local microenvironment at acupoints. The earlier mentioned substances further act on a variety of receptors in local nerve endings, transmitting electrical and biochemical signals to the CNS, and giving full play to the acupuncture action. In conclusion, we portrayed a neuro-immune microenvironment network of acupoints that medicates the acupuncture action, and would lay a foundation for the systematic study of the complex network relationship of acupoints in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Gong
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Ningcen Li
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongxi Lv
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Kuo Zhang
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Nankai, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanfang Zhang
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Municipal Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Changzhi City, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Zelin Chen
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Baomin Dou
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongming Guo
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Acu-moxibustion and Tuina Department, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tuanbo, Jinghai, Tianjin, China
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Purines Change at Acupoints along the Pericardium Meridian in Healthy and Myocardial Ischemic Rats. Chin J Integr Med 2018; 25:285-291. [PMID: 30264268 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-018-2932-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify the purine concentrations of the acupoints along the pericardium and nonpericardium meridians under healthy and myocardial ischemia conditions to investigate the relationship between acupoint purine change and body functional status in rats. METHODS A total of 70 rats underwent an operation for myocardial ischemia, while 40 of them survived. They were randomly assigned to the following 5 subgroups: Neiguan (PC 6), Quze (PC 3), Tianquan (PC 2), Quchi (LI 11), and Jianyu (LI 15). Simultaneously, another 40 healthy rats were also randomized into the same 5 subgroups as the control group. The tissue fluids at the acupoints were collected by microdialysis for 30 min. Subsequently, the concentration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), adenosine monophosphate (AMP), and adenosine (ADO) were quantified using the high-performance liquid chromatography method. RESULTS Compared with the healthy group, the ADO at PC 6 (P=0.012), PC 3 (P=0.038), PC 2 (P=0.024), and LI 15 (P=0.042) obviously increased in the model group, while no significant difference was observed at LI 11 (P=0.201). However, ATP, ADP, and AMP manifested no significant changes in these areas, except for ATP at LI 15 (P=0.036). CONCLUSIONS Myocardial ischemia could induce an increase in ADO at acupoints of the upper arm and shoulder area, suggesting that the body functional status could affect the responsiveness of acupoints. The status of these acupoints could be pathogenically activated by disease, and distribution following some specific courses.
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Low impedance nature of 12 acupoints on the limbs, and the unexpected dependence on limb angle. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcm.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Changes in Nitric Oxide Releases of the Contralateral Acupoint during and after Laser Acupuncture at Bilateral Same-Name Acupoints in Human. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:5763458. [PMID: 29358966 PMCID: PMC5735645 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5763458] [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: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of laser acupuncture (LA) at right Neiguan (RPC6)/left Neiguan (LPC6) acupoints on the releases of nitric oxide (NO) in the treated and contralateral/nontreated PC6, compared to the nonacupoint control area. Methods 24 mW LA at RPC6, LPC6, and nonacupoint in 22 healthy subjects for 40 min: sterilized dialysis tube was taped to the nontreated PC6/nonacupoint during the treatment and immediately taped to the treated and nontreated PC6/nonacupoint after LA removal. NO-scavenging compound was injected into the tube for 40 min to absorb the molecular which was tested by spectrophotometry in a blinded fashion. Results LA-induced NO releases over PC6 acupoints for the nontreated and treated sides all significantly increased after LA removal, but for the nontreated acupoints they did not change during LA stimulation. LA at RPC6 induced the more release of the NO at contralateral side than stimulating LPC6, but not on nonacupoints. The results suggest that LA-induced NO release over contralateral acupoint and NO release resulting from the lateralized specificity all are different and specific to the acupoint within different time course. Conclusions LA-evoked NO release over acupoints could improve the neurogenic, endothelial activity of the vessel wall to further facilitate microcirculation.
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Ma SX. Nitric oxide signaling molecules in acupoints: Toward mechanisms of acupuncture. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 23:812-815. [PMID: 29080196 PMCID: PMC5761672 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-017-2789-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent clinical trial studies have demonstrated that the effects of acupuncture on pain improvement are small and no difference between acupoints and non-points. Whether acupuncture needles must be inserted in specific points depends on whether acupoint specificity exists that is still not resolved, and is now urgent. Previous anatomical studies have demonstrated that acupoints exist higher number of nerve fibers/trunks, blood vessels, hair follicles, and sweat glands as well as density of the gap junction. Recent evidence shows that nitric oxide (NO) level is elevated in the acupoints/ meridians and is associated with an enhanced expression of NO synthase endowed with transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1. There is growing evidence from international groups showing that acupuncture induces NO-mediated vasodilatation, which increases local blood flow and allows for a flush of algesic or sensitizing substances, leading to pain relief. Previous studies, using a novel biocapture system, have demonstrated that NOx- (total nitrite and nitrate) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) concentrations are consistently increased over skin acupoints compared to non-meridian control regions (NMCR) in humans. Dermal microdialysis in humans showed that NO-cGMP releases in the subcutaneous tissue of acupoint are higher than those in NMCR and increased by electroacupuncture (EA). Recent studies have demonstrated that low-frequency electrical stimulation and manual acupuncture with low stimulating force and rate produce an elevation of NO release predominantly over acupoints. In contrast, NO levels over the areas of the skin regions are moderately reduced by high-frequency EA stimulation. The results from anatomical and biochemical studies consistently show that acupoints exist higher levels of NO signaling molecules, and stimulus-evoked NO release is also with a higher level at acupoints. Results suggest that NO signaling molecules contribute to the specificity of acupoints, and selecting well-trained acupuncturetists for using correct acupoints and appropriate parameters should improve acupuncture clinical trial studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Xing Ma
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA.
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15
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Core and Surface Temperature Modification During Road Transport and Physical Exercise in Horse After Acupuncture Needle Stimulation. J Equine Vet Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2017.03.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Response of Local Nitric Oxide Release to Manual Acupuncture and Electrical Heat in Humans: Effects of Reinforcement Methods. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:4694238. [PMID: 28717380 PMCID: PMC5498898 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4694238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
This study was to examine the influences of manual acupuncture (MA) and electrical heat corresponding to reinforcing methods on nitric oxide (NO) release over the skin regions in humans. A device with collecting solution was taped to the skin surface along pericardium (PC) or lung (LU) meridian. Acupuncture needles were gently inserted into PC 4 with reinforcing stimulation (low force/rate) for 20 minutes in the MA group. LU11 on the finger was heated (43-44°C) by electrical heat for 20 minutes. Biocapture was consecutively conducted for two 20-minute intervals during and after each treatment. Total nitrite and nitrate (NO x-) in the collecting samples were quantified using chemiluminescence in blinded fashion. Baseline NO x- levels are higher and tended to be higher over PC and LU acupoints during the 1st biocapture. NO x- levels over PC regions were consistently increased by MA during both intervals. NO x- concentrations over LU acupoints were increased and tended to be increased by electrical heat in the 1st and 2nd biocapture. The results suggest that reinforcing MA and electrical heat induce NO released from the local skin regions with higher levels at acupoints, which improve local circulation and contribute to the beneficial effects of the therapies.
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Jiang WL, Wei HJ, Guo ZY, Ni YR, Yang HQ, Xie SS. Effects of different-intensity laser acupuncture at two adjacent same-meridian acupoints on nitric oxide and soluble guanylate cyclase releases in human. Microcirculation 2017; 24. [PMID: 28665547 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to detect the influences of LA at nonacupoint and two adjacent acupoints of pericardium meridian on the releases of NO and sGC in 20 healthy subjects. METHODS Different intensities (12, 24, 48 mW) of infrared laser were used for irradiating Jianshi (PC5), Ximen (PC4) acupoints and nonacupoint for 20, 40 minutes, respectively. Semi-circular tubes were taped to the skin surface and filled with NO-scavenging compound for 20 minutes to capture NO and sGC, which were measured using spectrophotometry in a blinded fashion. RESULTS As the increase in the intensity of LA stimulation, the levels of NO releases over acupoints all were significantly increased, NO releases in nonacupoints following the same treatment only changed slightly, sGC amounts were observably enhanced over acupoints, but did not any change in nonacupoint area. Different intensities of LA treatments can sensitively affect the NO and sGC releases over acupoints. This indicated that LA-induced releases of the NO and sGC were specific to acupoints. CONCLUSIONS This is the first evidence reporting that LA induced significant elevations of NO-sGC releases over acupoints, and the enhanced signal molecules contribute to local circulation, which improves the beneficial effects of the therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Ling Jiang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Photonics Technology, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua-Jiang Wei
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Photonics Technology, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhou-Yi Guo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Photonics Technology, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Rong Ni
- MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & SATCM Third Grade Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Photonics Technology, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Qin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education of China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Shu-Sen Xie
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education of China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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Mehta P, Dhapte V, Kadam S, Dhapte V. Contemporary acupressure therapy: Adroit cure for painless recovery of therapeutic ailments. J Tradit Complement Med 2017; 7:251-263. [PMID: 28417094 PMCID: PMC5388088 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2016.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 06/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since time immemorial, complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) have played a significant role in human health care. CAM is known to have a strong reputation and reliability within every culture to provide basic health care treatment for patients. CAM acts as a better therapeutic option in human being for treating various diseases and improving quality of life with apt consideration to the economic aspects. Acupressure, one of the known CAM, originated in ancient China is based on the principal of acupoints activation across the meridians which correct the imbalance between Qi. Activation of specific points on the meridians is known to facilitate reduction of pain at the local sites. It also reduces the pain from other body parts. This review outlines various types, devices and mechanisms involved in the acupressure treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush Mehta
- Department of Quality assurance, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Pune 38, India
| | - Vishwas Dhapte
- Department of Chemistry, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Yashwantrao Mohite College, Pune 38, India
| | - Shivajirao Kadam
- Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Bharati Vidyapeeth Bhavan, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Pune 38, India
| | - Vividha Dhapte
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, India
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Acupuncture-induced changes of pressure pain threshold are mediated by segmental inhibition--a randomized controlled trial. Pain 2016; 156:2245-2255. [PMID: 26133726 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to distinguish between spinal and supraspinal mechanisms in the intact nervous system by comparing homosegmental and heterosegmental effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and manual acupuncture (MA) on sensory perception in healthy volunteers by means of quantitative sensory testing. Seventy-two healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to receive either MA or EA at SP 6, SP 9, GB 39, and ST 36 at the left leg or relaxed for 30 minutes (control group [CG]). Blinded examiners assessed 13 sensory modalities (thermal and mechanical detection and pain thresholds) at the upper arms and lower legs before and after intervention by means of a standardized quantitative sensory testing battery. Change scores of all 13 sensory thresholds were compared between groups. The main outcome measure was the change score of the pressure pain threshold (PPT). There were no baseline differences between groups. Pressure pain threshold change scores at the lower left leg, in the same segment as the needling site, differed significantly (P = 0.008) between the EA (median: 103.01 kPa) and CG groups (median: 0.00 kPa) but not between the MA (median: 0.00 kPa) and CG groups. No further significant change score differences were found between one of the acupuncture groups and the CG. The PPT can be changed by EA. The PPT increase was confined to the segment of needling, which indicates that it is mainly mediated by segmental inhibition in the spinal cord. This underscores the importance of segmental needling and electrical stimulation in clinical practice.
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Ma SX, Lee PC, Jiang I, Ma E, Hu JS, Li XY. Influence of age, gender, and race on nitric oxide release over acupuncture points-meridians. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17547. [PMID: 26621821 PMCID: PMC4664911 DOI: 10.1038/srep17547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the influence of age, gender and race on nitric oxide (NO) release over acupuncture points, meridian without acupoint, and non-meridian regions of the Pericardium (PC) and Bladder (BL) meridian as well as aging on LU meridian in 61 healthy subjects. Biocapture tubes were attached to the skin surface, and total nitrite and nitrate was biocaptured and quantified using chemiluminescence. In elder ages compared to adults, NO levels over the ventral forearm were significantly decreased over LU on radial regions but not altered over PC on medial regions. Conversely, NO content was elevated over BL regions only in overweight/obesity of elder ages. NO levels over PC regions were marginally elevated in overweight/obese males compared to females but did not alter between races. These results suggest a selective reduction of NO release over LU meridian with aging, which is consistent with a progressive decline in lung function and increase in chronic respiratory disease in elder ages. Increased NO levels along the BL meridian in older obese subjects may reflect a modified NO level along somatic-bladder pathway for counteracting bladder dysfunctions with aging. Both of them support somatic-organ connections in the meridian system associated with potential pathophysiological changes with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Xing Ma
- LA BioMed Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Paul C Lee
- LA BioMed Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Isabelle Jiang
- LA BioMed Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Eva Ma
- LA BioMed Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Jay S Hu
- LA BioMed Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Xi-Yan Li
- LA BioMed Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502
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21
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Ma SX, Mayer E, Lee P, Li XY, Gao EZ. Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation Increased Nitric Oxide-Cyclic GMP Release Biocaptured Over Skin Surface of Pericardium Meridian and Acupuncture Points in Humans. ACUPUNCTURE ELECTRO 2015; 40:73-86. [PMID: 26369251 DOI: 10.3727/036012915x14381285982840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to consecutively capture and quantify nitric oxide (NO) and cGMP, the second messenger of NO, over the skin surface of acupuncture points (acupoints), meridian line without acupoint, and non-meridian control regions of the Pericardium meridian (PC) in humans, and investigate their response to transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) . DESIGN, SETTING, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Adhesive biocapture tubes were attached to the skin surface along PC regions and injected with 2-Phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-3-oxide-1-oxyl solution, an NO-scavenging compound, contacting the skin surface for 20 minutes each during 4 consecutive biocapture intervals. TENS (1.0 mA, 6 Hz, 1.0 msec duration) was applied over acupoints PC 8 and PC 3 during the 2nd biocapture for 20 min. Total nitrite and nitrate (NO(x)-), the stable metabolic products of NO, and cGMP in biocaptured samples were quantified using chemiluminescence and ELISA. RESULTS NO(x)- levels in the 1st biocapture over PC regions are almost two fold higher compared to subsequent biocaptures and are higher over PC acupoints versus non-meridian control region. Following TENS, NO(x)- concentrations over PC regions were significantly increased, and cGMP is predominantly released from the skin surface of PC acupoints. CONCLUSIONS TENS induces elevations of NO-cGMP concentrations over local skin region with a high level at acupoints. The enhanced signal molecules improve local circulation, which contributes to beneficial effects of the therapy.
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Perception of Therapeutic Qi, a Nonmechanical, Nonpsychological Factor in Acupuncture That Originates from the Therapist. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2015; 8:203-8. [PMID: 26276457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
So far, most research attempts to explain the mechanism of the action of acupuncture have focused mostly on mechanically-triggered active factors and have produced inconclusive findings. In this study, we investigate whether acupuncture might also involve nonmechanical, nonpsychological active factors originating in the therapist. In 30 individuals, an acupuncture needle was inserted in the acupoint PC6 using a special device without touching the needle. A second device was used to fix the needle rigidly in place, excluding any mechanical transmission of movement from the handle to the needle's tip. Each participant was exposed in random order to a control and a stimulation phase. During the stimulation phase, the free needle's end was held by the therapist to allow the transmission of Qi; during the control phase, it was left untouched. Participants' subjective sensations during the stimulation phase and the control phase were recorded using a questionnaire. Twenty-two of 28 (79%; p = 0.003) test participants believed that they had received stimulation when it had actually been performed, and 26 (93%; p < 0.001) sensed differences between the two experimental phases. Thus, participants were able to sense the transmission of therapeutic Qi in the absence of mechanical or psychological factors.
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Li F, He T, Xu Q, Lin LT, Li H, Liu Y, Shi GX, Liu CZ. What is the Acupoint? A preliminary review of Acupoints. PAIN MEDICINE 2015; 16:1905-15. [PMID: 25975413 DOI: 10.1111/pme.12761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, acupoints are specifically chosen sites of acupuncture manipulation, and also the basis for studying the mechanism of acupuncture. Stimulating different acupoints on the body surface could provide various therapeutic benefits. However, what is the acupoint? This question is not clear. REVIEW SUMMARY We focuse on examining the function of acupoints from different perspectives, including the local and the systemic effects of stimulating acupoints. For example, acupoints may release certain substances or incur some changes, which could adjust the function of organs, maintain homeostasis. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of verum acupoints versus sham acupoints were discussed. However, due to insufficience in evidence and in current methodologies, research into mechanisms of acupuncture is still incomplete. CONCLUSION This review might explain, to some extent, what an acupoint is. Further research into the identity of acupoints is warranted, and multidisciplinary methods using novel technologies may yield significant advances over existing knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Li
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China.,Graduate school, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 312, Anshan West Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Tian He
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China
| | - Li-Ting Lin
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China.,Graduate school, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 312, Anshan West Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Hui Li
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China.,Graduate school, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 312, Anshan West Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China.,Graduate school, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 312, Anshan West Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Guang-Xia Shi
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China
| | - Cun-Zhi Liu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100010, China
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Specificity study on concentration of monoamine transmitters at acupoint and effect of acupuncture on its distribution. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:704507. [PMID: 25544852 PMCID: PMC4269312 DOI: 10.1155/2014/704507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the distribution of monoamine transmitters at acupoints and effect of acupuncture on it. Take this experiment by means of microdialysis. Twenty rabbits were randomly assigned to two groups (Group A: acupuncture Guanyuan (RN4), Group B: acupuncture nonacupoint which is besides Guanyuan (RN4) 1 cm). Before and after acupuncture was taken, tissue fluids both at Zhongwan (RN12) which is on the same meridian as Guanyuan and at a nonacupoint 1 cm away from Zhongwan were collected through microdialysis, respectively. The collected samples were analyzed to determine concentrations of monoamine transmitters. Epinephrine and 5-HT were detected. An unknown substance was found. Its concentration at acupoint was significantly higher than that at nonacupoint and decreased after acupuncture. Its significant specificity at acupoints suggests that it may play an important role in meridian's activity.
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Liu Y, Li W, Hu L, Liu Y, Li B, Sun C, Zhang C, Zou L. Downregulation of nitric oxide by electroacupuncture against hypoxic‑ischemic brain damage in rats via nuclear factor‑κB/neuronal nitric oxide synthase. Mol Med Rep 2014; 11:837-42. [PMID: 25374015 PMCID: PMC4262503 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the role of nitric oxide (NO) against perinatal hypoxic‑ischemic brain damage (HIBD) in rats by electroacupuncture (EA) and to examine its potential neuroprotective mechanism. NO content, the number of positive cells, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and nuclear factor‑κB (NF‑κB) in rat cortex cells were determined. The results demonstrated that treatment with EA significantly downregulated the NO content in the cortex cells (*P<0.05, **P<0.01, compared with the control groups) and alleviated cell damage in the cortex of rats with HIBD. The activator, S‑adenosyl‑L‑methionine and the inhibitor, hydroxylamine of cystathionine‑β‑synthase (CBS), aggravated and remitted the hypoxic damage in the cortex cells, respectively. In addition, treatment with EA significantly downregulated the expression of nNOS and NF‑κB in the rat cortex cells (*P<0.05, **P<0.01, compared with the control groups). The results also indicated that treatment with EA downregulated the NO content of cortical cells against HIBD via the NF‑κB/nNOS pathway and further implied that the hydrogen sulfide/CBS system may be involved in the process. The present study provided a significant reference for the prevention and treatment of HIBD using the EA technique and also described a novel protective mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Weiguang Li
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Cognitive and Mental Health Research Center of PLA, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Linyan Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Baoquan Li
- Department of Pediatrics, 159th Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Zhumadian, Henan 463000, P.R. China
| | - Changqing Sun
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Cognitive and Mental Health Research Center of PLA, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Chenggang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Cognitive and Mental Health Research Center of PLA, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Liping Zou
- Department of Pediatrics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
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Min S, Lee H, Kim SY, Park JY, Chae Y, Lee H, Park HJ. Local changes in microcirculation and the analgesic effects of acupuncture: a laser Doppler perfusion imaging study. J Altern Complement Med 2014; 21:46-52. [PMID: 25354241 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2013.0442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although the local response induced by acupuncture manipulation has been considered to be among the important factors that induce the effects of acupuncture, this connection has not yet been properly studied with standardized tools. The aims of this study are to examine the local changes in microcirculation that occur at different manipulation intensities and explore any associations of these changes with the analgesic effects of acupuncture. PARTICIPANTS/INTERVENTIONS Twelve healthy volunteers received three acupuncture interventions (insertion only, a single manipulation, and repeated manipulations) at the right LI4 (Hegu or Hapgok) in random order. OUTCOME MEASURES Skin blood perfusion was measured in a 100-mm(2) area ellipse centered on LI4 by using laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI) before, during, and after acupuncture stimulation. Pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) were measured at ipsilateral areas, including acupoints ST25 (abdomen), LI5 (hand), LI10 (arm), and SP9 (leg). RESULTS Repeated acupuncture manipulations enhanced microcirculatory perfusion compared with the insertion-only (p<0.01) and the single-manipulation (p<0.05) conditions. The repeated acupuncture manipulations significantly decreased the pressure pain at ST25 compared with the other groups (each p<0.05). Of note, Spearman correlation analysis revealed significant correlation between changes of local perfusion and PPTs (r=0.393; p=0.018). CONCLUSIONS These results suggested that repeated manipulation induced higher local microcirculatory changes that were correlated with the analgesic effects at the relevant sites. The findings suggest that a proper dose of acupuncture stimulation might be essential to elicit the acupuncture effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seorim Min
- 1 Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Park JY, Park JJ, Jeon S, Doo AR, Kim SN, Lee H, Chae Y, Maixner W, Lee H, Park HJ. From peripheral to central: the role of ERK signaling pathway in acupuncture analgesia. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2014; 15:535-49. [PMID: 24524846 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2014.01.498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Despite accumulating evidence of the clinical effectiveness of acupuncture, its mechanism remains largely unclear. We assume that molecular signaling around the acupuncture needled area is essential for initiating the effect of acupuncture. To determine possible bio-candidates involved in the mechanisms of acupuncture and investigate the role of such bio-candidates in the analgesic effects of acupuncture, we conducted 2 stepwise experiments. First, a genome-wide microarray of the isolated skin layer at the GB34-equivalent acupoint of C57BL/6 mice 1 hour after acupuncture found that a total of 236 genes had changed and that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation was the most prominent bio-candidate. Second, in mouse pain models using formalin and complete Freund adjuvant, we found that acupuncture attenuated the nociceptive behavior and the mechanical allodynia; these effects were blocked when ERK cascade was interrupted by the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor U0126 (.8 μg/μL). Based on these results, we suggest that ERK phosphorylation following acupuncture needling is a biochemical hallmark initiating the effect of acupuncture including analgesia. PERSPECTIVE This article presents the novel evidence of the local molecular signaling in acupuncture analgesia by demonstrating that ERK activation in the skin layer contributes to the analgesic effect of acupuncture in a mouse pain model. This work improves our understanding of the scientific basis underlying acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yeun Park
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongbae J Park
- Asian Medicine and Acupuncture Research, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Center for Pain Research and Innovation, UNC School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Songhee Jeon
- Dongguk University Research Institute of Biotechnology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ah-Reum Doo
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Nam Kim
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyangsook Lee
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Younbyoung Chae
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - William Maixner
- Center for Pain Research and Innovation, UNC School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hyejung Lee
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hi-Joon Park
- Studies of Translational Acupuncture Research, Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Carolina Asia Center, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
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Litscher G, Ofner M, He W, Wang L, Gaischek I. Acupressure at the Meridian Acupoint Xiyangguan (GB33) Influences Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Parameters (Regional Oxygen Saturation) in Deeper Tissue of the Knee in Healthy Volunteers. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2013; 2013:370341. [PMID: 23476689 PMCID: PMC3582098 DOI: 10.1155/2013/370341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Up to now, it is still unknown whether microcirculation of deeper peripheral tissue (knee) can be modulated by acupuncture or acupressure on a meridian acupoint. The goal of this pilot study was to investigate possible effects of acupressure at the Xiyangguan acupoint (GB33) on the regional oxygen saturation of the deeper knee tissues by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Twelve healthy volunteers with a mean age of 23.8 ± 1.6 years were investigated. Acupressure stimulation was performed for 5 minutes at the Xiyangguan acupoint. The results of the controlled study showed a significant increase of the values of regional oxygen saturation on the stimulated side of the knee (P = 0.033), whereas the opposite side on the same knee showed insignificant changes. These results may serve as a valuable basis for monitoring a possible therapeutic effect (e.g., after Khalifa therapy) in patients with knee problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Litscher
- Stronach Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine and TCM Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Department of Meridians, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Michael Ofner
- Department of Sports Physiology, University of Vienna, 1150 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wei He
- Stronach Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine and TCM Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Department of Meridians, Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Stronach Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine and TCM Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Ingrid Gaischek
- Stronach Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine and TCM Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, 8036 Graz, Austria
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Li J, Wang Q, Liang H, Dong H, Li Y, Ng EHY, Wu X. Biophysical characteristics of meridians and acupoints: a systematic review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2012; 2012:793841. [PMID: 23346214 PMCID: PMC3546562 DOI: 10.1155/2012/793841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Revised: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 12/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
As an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture is a convenient and effective therapy with fewer adverse effects. Recently, researches on meridian essence have become core issues of modern TCM. Numerous experiments have demonstrated the objective existence of meridians by different technologies since 1950s, such as biophysics, biochemistry, and molecular biology. In this paper, we review biophysical studies on electric, acoustic, thermal, optical, magnetic, isotopic, and myoelectric aspects of meridians and acupoints. These studies suggest that meridians/acupoints have biophysical characteristics which are different from nonacupuncture points. Owing to the limitations of previous studies, future research using high-throughput technologies such as omics and multicenter randomized controlled trials should be performed to explore the acupuncture's mechanisms of action and demonstration of efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Key Discipline and Clinical Base, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Key Discipline and Clinical Base, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Huiling Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Key Discipline and Clinical Base, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Haoxu Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Key Discipline and Clinical Base, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Key Discipline and Clinical Base, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Ernest Hung Yu Ng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Key Discipline and Clinical Base, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
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Kimura K, Takeuchi H, Yuri K, Wakayama I. Effects of nitric oxide synthase inhibition on cutaneous vasodilation in response to acupuncture stimulation in humans. Acupunct Med 2012; 31:74-80. [PMID: 23076431 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2012-010177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to elucidate the mechanism of cutaneous vasodilation following acupuncture stimulation by investigating the roles of nitric oxide (NO) and axon reflex vasodilation. METHODS The subjects were 17 healthy male volunteers. The role of NO was investigated by administering N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME, 20 mM), an NO synthase inhibitor or Ringer's solution (control site), via intradermal microdialysis (protocol 1; n=7). The role of axon reflex vasodilation by local sensory neurones was investigated by comparing vasodilation at sites treated with 'eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics' (EMLA) cream (2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine) with untreated sites (control site) (protocol 2; n=10). After 5 min of baseline recording, acupuncture was applied to PC4 and a control site in proximity to PC4 for 10 min and scanning was performed for 60 min after acupuncture stimulation. Skin blood flow (SkBF) was evaluated by laser Doppler perfusion imaging. Cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) was calculated from the ratio of SkBF to mean arterial blood pressure. RESULTS In the first protocol, sites administered L-NAME showed significant reductions in CVC responses following acupuncture stimulation compared to control sites (administered Ringer's solution) (p<0.05). In the second protocol, changes in CVC responses after acupuncture stimulation did not differ significantly between treated sites with EMLA cream and untreated sites (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that cutaneous vasodilation in response to acupuncture stimulation may not occur through an axon reflex as previously reported. Rather, NO mechanisms appear to contribute to the vasodilator response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Kimura
- Department of Health Sciences, Kansai University of Health Sciences, 2-11-1, Wakaba, Kumatori, Osaka 590-0482, Japan.
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Neural acupuncture unit: a new concept for interpreting effects and mechanisms of acupuncture. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 2012:429412. [PMID: 22474503 PMCID: PMC3310280 DOI: 10.1155/2012/429412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 12/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
When an acupuncture needle is inserted into a designated point on the body and
mechanical or electrical stimulation is delivered, various neural and neuroactive
components are activated. The collection of the activated neural and neuroactive
components distributed in the skin, muscle, and connective tissues surrounding the
inserted needle is defined as a neural acupuncture unit (NAU). The traditionally defined
acupoints represent an anatomical landmark system that indicates local sites where NAUs
may contain relatively dense and concentrated neural and neuroactive components, upon
which acupuncture stimulation would elicit a more efficient therapeutic response. The
NAU-based local mechanisms of biochemical and biophysical reactions play an important
role in acupuncture-induced analgesia. Different properties of NAUs are associated with
different components of needling sensation. There exist several central pathways to
convey NAU-induced acupuncture signals, Electroacupuncture (EA) frequency-specific
neurochemical effects are related to different peripheral and central pathways transmitting
afferent signals from different frequency of NAU stimulation. More widespread and intense
neuroimaging responses of brain regions to acupuncture may be a consequence of more
efficient NAU stimulation modes. The introduction of the conception of NAU provides a
new theoretical approach to interpreting effects and mechanisms of acupuncture in
modern biomedical knowledge framework.
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Wei H, Wang S, Xu F, Xu L, Zheng J, Chen Y. Topical bioequivalence of acyclovir creams using dermal microdialysis in pigs: a new model to evaluate bioequivalence for topical formulations. Drug Dev Ind Pharm 2011; 38:785-91. [DOI: 10.3109/03639045.2011.625032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Ma SX, Li XY, Smith BT, Jou NT. Changes in nitric oxide, cGMP, and nitrotyrosine concentrations over skin along the meridians in obese subjects. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2011; 19:1560-7. [PMID: 21151015 PMCID: PMC3584154 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2010.294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The purposes of these studies were to quantify the concentrations of total nitrate and nitrite (NO(x)(-)) cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), and nitrotyrosine over skin surface in normal weight healthy volunteers (n = 64) compared to overweight/obese subjects (n = 54). A semi-circular plastic tube was taped to the skin along acupuncture points (acupoints), meridian line without acupoint (MWOP), and nonmeridian control and filled with a 2-Phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-3-oxide-1-oxyl solution for 20 min. The concentrations of NO(x)(-), cGMP, and nitrotyrosine in the samples were quantified in a blinded fashion using chemiluminescence and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. In normal weight healthy volunteers, NO(x)(-) and cGMP concentrations were consistently increased over the pericardium meridian (PC) 4-7 compared with nonmeridian areas. NO(x)(-) concentration is enhanced over the bladder meridian (BL) 56-57, but cGMP level is similar between the regions. In overweight/obese subjects, NO(x)(-) contents were increased or tended to be elevated over PC and BL regions. cGMP is paradoxically decreased over PC acupoints and nonmeridian control on the forearm but the decreases were blunted along BL regions on the leg. Nitrotyrosine concentrations are markedly elevated (five- to sixfold) over both PC and BL in all areas of overweight/obese subjects. This is the first evidence showing that nitrotyrosine level is tremendously elevated over skin accompanied by paradoxical changes in nitric oxide (NO)-cGMP concentrations over PC skin region in overweight/obese subject. The results suggest that NO-related oxidant inflammation is systemically enhanced while cGMP generation is impaired over PC skin region but not over BL region in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Xing Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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Hsiu H, Hsu WC, Hsu CL, Huang SM. Assessing the effects of acupuncture by comparing needling the hegu acupoint and needling nearby nonacupoints by spectral analysis of microcirculatory laser Doppler signals. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2011; 2011:435928. [PMID: 21804856 PMCID: PMC3136473 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/neq073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2009] [Accepted: 05/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to assess the effects of acupuncture by analyzing the frequency content of skin blood-flow signals simultaneously recorded at the Hegu acupoint and two nearby nonacupoints following acupuncture stimulation (AS). Laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) signals were measured in male healthy volunteers in two groups of experiments: needling the Hegu acupoint (n = 13) and needling a nearby nonacupoint (control experiment; n = 10). Each experiment involved recording a 20 min baseline-data sequence and two sets of effects data recorded 0–20 and 50–70 min after stopping AS. Wavelet transform with Morlet mother wavelet was applied to the measured LDF signals. Needling the Hegu acupoint significantly increased the blood flow, significantly decreased the relative energy contribution at 0.02–0.06 Hz and significantly increased the relative energy contribution at 0.4–1.6 Hz at Hegu, but induced no significant changes at the nonacupoints. Also, needling a nearby nonacupoint had no effect in any band at any site. This is the first time that spectral analysis has been used to investigate the microcirculatory blood-flow responses induced by AS, and has revealed possible differences in sympathetic nerve activities between needling the Hegu acupoint and its nearby nonacupoint. One possible weakness of the present design is that different De-Qi feelings following AS could lead to nonblind experimental setup, which may bias the comparison between needling Hegu and its nearby nonacupoint. Our results suggest that the described noninvasive method can be used to evaluate sympathetic control of peripheral vascular activity, which might be useful for studying the therapeutic effects of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin Hsiu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
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