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Yao K, Chen Z, Li Y, Dou B, Xu Z, Ma Y, Du S, Wang J, Fu J, Liu Q, Fan Z, Liu Y, Lin X, Xu Y, Fang Y, Wang S, Guo Y. TRPA1 Ion Channel Mediates the Analgesic Effects of Acupuncture at the ST36 Acupoint in Mice Suffering from Arthritis. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:1823-1837. [PMID: 38523680 PMCID: PMC10961083 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s455699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Acupuncture (ACU) has been demonstrated to alleviate inflammatory pain. Mechanoreceptors are present in acupuncture points. When acupuncture exerts mechanical force, these ion channels open and convert the mechanical signals into biochemical signals. TRPA1 (T ransient receptor potential ankyrin 1) is capable of sensing various physical and chemical stimuli and serves as a sensor for inflammation and pain. This protein is expressed in immune cells and contributes to local defense mechanisms during early tissue damage and inflammation. In this study, we investigated the role of TRPA1 in acupuncture analgesia. Patients and Methods We injected complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the mouse plantars to establish a hyperalgesia model. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to determine the effect of acupuncture on the TRPA1 expression in the Zusanli (ST36). We used TRPA1-/- mouse and pharmacological methods to antagonize TRPA1 to observe the effect on acupuncture analgesia. On this basis, collagenase was used to destroy collagen fibers at ST36 to observe the effect on TRPA1. Results We found that the ACU group vs the CFA group, the number of TRPA1-positive mast cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts at the ST36 increased significantly. In CFA- inflammatory pain models, the TRPA1-/- ACU vs TRPA1+/+ ACU groups, the paw withdrawal latency (PWL) and paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) downregulated significantly. In the ACU + high-, ACU + medium-, ACU + low-dose HC-030031 vs ACU groups, the PWL and PWT were downregulated, and in carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain models were consistent with these results. We further found the ACU + collagenase vs ACU groups, the numbers of TRPA1-positive mast cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts at the ST36 were downregulated. Conclusion These findings together imply that TRPA1 plays a significant role in the analgesic effects produced via acupuncture at the ST36. This provides new evidence for acupuncture treatment of painful diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaifang Yao
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhihan Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanwei Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yajing Ma
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Simin Du
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiangshan Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiangjiang Fu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zezhi Fan
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shenjun Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
- School of Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin City, People’s Republic of China
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Heydari FS, Gorji Valokola M, Mehri S, Abnous K, Roohbakhsh A. The blockade of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) protects against PTZ-induced seizure. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:621-630. [PMID: 36399240 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-01123-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of epilepsy remains a major problem as some epileptic patients do not respond to the current therapeutics. Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) belongs to the TRP channels and has diverse physiological functions in the body. Considering its physiological properties, we aimed to evaluate its role in two experimental models of epilepsy, including pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced acute seizure and PTZ-evoked kindling. Furthermore, the TRPA1 protein levels were assessed in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum after seizure induction. Three groups of Wistar rats received acute intraperitoneal injection of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ, 85 mg/kg). The groups received intraventricular injections of vehicle (dimethyl sulfoxide, Tween 80, and sterile 0.9% saline), valproate (30 µg/rat), or HC030031 (TRPA1 antagonist, 14 µg/rat) before PTZ injection. In the PTZ-induced kindling model, PTZ was administrated 35 mg/kg every other day for 24 days. PTZ gradually provoked seizure-related behaviors. After experiments, the TRPA1 levels in the brain were assessed using western blot. The results showed that HC030031 reduced the median of seizure scores and S5 duration while increasing S2 and S5 latencies in acute and kindling models. The anticonvulsant effect of HC030031 was comparable with valproate as a standard anticonvulsant drug. Furthermore, induction of seizure, either acute or kindling, enhanced TRPA1 levels in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum that were prevented by HC030031 or valproate administration. The results of this study showed that HC030031 as a TRPA1 receptor antagonist promoted a significant anticonvulsant effect comparable with valproate. Both drugs prevented TRPA1 upregulation during seizures. These findings imply that TRPA1 is a potential target in treating epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadat Heydari
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Gorji Valokola
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, Brain and Spinal Injury Repair Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soghra Mehri
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Khalil Abnous
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ali Roohbakhsh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Neves ML, Karvat J, Simões RR, Speretta GFF, Lataro RM, da Silva MD, Santos ARS. The antinociceptive effect of manual acupuncture in the auricular branch of the vagus nerve in visceral and somatic acute pain models and its laterality dependence. Life Sci 2022; 309:121000. [PMID: 36174710 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The vagus nerve provides an important route to the central nervous system, and its brain projections are involved in nociceptive control and pain perception. We investigated the effect of ABVN stimulation on the inhibition of nociceptive signaling and the role of the cholinergic system in its neurobiological effects in models of visceral-somatic pain in rats, as well as the potential difference in stimulus laterality. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male and female Wistar rats were pretreated with auricular acupuncture in the ABVN and submitted to the visceral-somatic nociception model by acetic acid or somatic nociception by formalin. Vagotomy and pharmacological tools were used to verify the participation of the cholinergic system in the experiments. KEY FINDINGS Acupuncture on the left, but not the right, in the ABVN inhibited nociceptive signaling in the visceral-somatic nociception model in male and female rats. Acupuncture on the left ABVN reduced the response time in the formalin test. The cervical vagotomy of the left branch, but not the right, also inhibited nociceptive signaling in the visceral-somatic nociception model and reduced the effect of ABVN stimulation. Furthermore, cholinergic antagonists reduced the left ABVN stimulation effects in the same model. SIGNIFICANCE Our data show that only the stimulation in the left ABVN is capable of producing antinociceptive effect in acute pain models in rats, and that it is dependent on the activation of the vagus nerve caudal to the nodose ganglion, as well as the muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Lisboa Neves
- Program of Post-graduation in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil.
| | - Jhenifer Karvat
- Program of Post-graduation in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Róli Rodrigues Simões
- Program of Post-graduation in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil; Nova Palhoça College, Av. Vidal Procópio Lohn, 1081 - Nova Palhoça, Palhoça, SC, 88131-551, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Fleury Fina Speretta
- Program of Post-graduation in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil; Department of Physiological Sciences, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Renata Maria Lataro
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Morgana Duarte da Silva
- Program of Post-graduation in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Adair Roberto Soares Santos
- Program of Post-graduation in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
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Zhao C, Lu L, Liu W, Zhou D, Wu X. Complementary and alternative medicine for treating epilepsy in China: A systematic review. Acta Neurol Scand 2022; 146:775-785. [PMID: 36082744 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There are about 10 million people with epilepsy (PWE) in China. In addition to therapies approved by the National Medical Products Administration, the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is prevalent in Chines PWE. These CAM therapies mainly comprise traditional Chinese medicine herbs (TCMHs), acupuncture, and music. A retrospective literature search was performed to summarize the updates of CAM in China in the past ten years, and sixty-two papers were finally included. In this following review, we listed the animal and clinical studies to summarize the antiepileptic mechanisms and clinical efficacy of CAM in Chines PWE. The main mechanisms of TCMHs and acupuncture included regulation of neurotransmitters and receptors, voltage-gated ion channels modulation, expression of apoptosis-related genes, antioxidant response, and anti-inflammation. Although there were enormous clinical studies on them, the current available clinical trials were small, short-term, heterogeneous, and had a high risk of bias. With regard to music, a few studies conducted by Chinese scholars suggested that it was beneficial for PWE as an add-on therapy, which was consistent with the results of foreign studies. Further randomized clinical trials in large populations are required to prove the effectiveness and safety of CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Zhao
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenyu Liu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xintong Wu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Argôlo IDPR, Parisi JR, Silva JRTD, Silva MLD. Participation of Potential Transient Receptors in the Antinociceptive Effect of Pharmacopuncture. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2022; 15:105-113. [DOI: 10.51507/j.jams.2022.15.2.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Risso Parisi
- Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil
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Verhoog QP, Holtman L, Aronica E, van Vliet EA. Astrocytes as Guardians of Neuronal Excitability: Mechanisms Underlying Epileptogenesis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:591690. [PMID: 33324329 PMCID: PMC7726323 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.591690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are key homeostatic regulators in the central nervous system and play important roles in physiology. After brain damage caused by e.g., status epilepticus, traumatic brain injury, or stroke, astrocytes may adopt a reactive phenotype. This process of reactive astrogliosis is important to restore brain homeostasis. However, persistent reactive astrogliosis can be detrimental for the brain and contributes to the development of epilepsy. In this review, we will focus on physiological functions of astrocytes in the normal brain as well as pathophysiological functions in the epileptogenic brain, with a focus on acquired epilepsy. We will discuss the role of astrocyte-related processes in epileptogenesis, including reactive astrogliosis, disturbances in energy supply and metabolism, gliotransmission, and extracellular ion concentrations, as well as blood-brain barrier dysfunction and dysregulation of blood flow. Since dysfunction of astrocytes can contribute to epilepsy, we will also discuss their role as potential targets for new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quirijn P. Verhoog
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Linda Holtman
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Erwin A. van Vliet
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Wei TH, Hsieh CL. Effect of Acupuncture on the p38 Signaling Pathway in Several Nervous System Diseases: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4693. [PMID: 32630156 PMCID: PMC7370084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is clinically used to treat various diseases and exerts positive local and systemic effects in several nervous system diseases. Advanced molecular and clinical studies have continually attempted to decipher the mechanisms underlying these effects of acupuncture. While a growing understanding of the pathophysiology underlying several nervous system diseases shows it to be related to inflammation and impair cell regeneration after ischemic events, the relationship between the therapeutic mechanism of acupuncture and the p38 MAPK signal pathway has yet to be elucidated. This review discusses the latest advancements in the identification of the effect of acupuncture on the p38 signaling pathway in several nervous system diseases. We electronically searched databases including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from their inception to April 2020, using the following keywords alone or in various combinations: "acupuncture", "p38 MAPK pathway", "signaling", "stress response", "inflammation", "immune", "pain", "analgesic", "cerebral ischemic injury", "epilepsy", "Alzheimer's disease", "Parkinson's disease", "dementia", "degenerative", and "homeostasis". Manual acupuncture and electroacupuncture confer positive therapeutic effects by regulating proinflammatory cytokines, ion channels, scaffold proteins, and transcription factors including TRPV1/4, Nav, BDNF, and NADMR1; consequently, p38 regulates various phenomena including cell communication, remodeling, regeneration, and gene expression. In this review article, we found the most common acupoints for the relief of nervous system disorders including GV20, GV14, ST36, ST37, and LI4. Acupuncture exhibits dual regulatory functions of activating or inhibiting different p38 MAPK pathways, contributing to an overall improvement of clinical symptoms and function in several nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Hsuan Wei
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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Wang S, Du J, Shao F, Wang W, Sun H, Shao X, Liang Y, Liu B, Fang J, Fang J. Electroacupuncture Regulates Pain Transition by Inhibiting the mGluR5-PKCε Signaling Pathway in the Dorsal Root Ganglia. J Pain Res 2020; 13:1471-1483. [PMID: 32606913 PMCID: PMC7311359 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s251948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute pain can transition to chronic pain, presenting a major clinical challenge. Electroacupuncture (EA) can partly prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the effect of EA. This study investigated the effect of EA on pain transition and the activation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5)–protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) signaling pathway in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Methods The hyperalgesic priming model was established by the sequential intraplantar injection of carrageenan (1%, 100 μL) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) into the left hind paw of rats. EA treatment (2/100 Hz, 30 min, once/day) was applied at bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Kunlun (BL60) acupoints in rats. Von Frey filaments were used to investigate the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) at different time points. The protein expression levels of mGluR5 and PKCε in the ipsilateral L4-L6 DRGs of rats were detected by Western blot. Some pharmacological experiments were performed to evaluate the relationship between mGluR5, PKCε and the MWT. It was also used to test the effects of EA on the expression levels of mGluR5 and PKCε and changes in the MWT. Results Sequential injection of carrageenan and PGE2 significantly decreased the MWT of rats and up-regulated the expression level of mGluR5 and PKCε in the ipsilateral L4-L6 DRGs. EA can reverse the hyperalgesic priming induced by sequential injection of carrageenan/PGE and down-regulate the protein expression of mGluR5 and PKCε. Glutamate injection instead of PGE2 can mimic the hyperalgesic priming model. Pharmacological blocking of mGluR5 with specific antagonist MTEP can prevent the hyperalgesic priming and inhibit the activation of PKCε in DRGs. Furthermore, EA also produced analgesic effect on the hyperalgesic priming rats induced by carrageenan/mGluR5 injection and inhibited the high expression of PKCε. Sham EA produced none analgesic and regulatory effect. Conclusion EA can regulate pain transition and it may relate with its inhibitory effect on the activation of mGluR5-PKCε signaling pathway in the DRGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Junying Du
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangbing Shao
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiju Sun
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Liang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Boyi Liu
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
| | - Junfan Fang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, People's Republic of China
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Therapeutic potential of pharmacological agents targeting TRP channels in CNS disorders. Pharmacol Res 2020; 159:105026. [PMID: 32562815 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson disease (PD), stroke, epilepsy, depression, and bipolar disorder have a high impact on both medical and social problems due to the surge in their prevalence. All of these neuronal disorders share some common etiologies including disruption of Ca2+ homeostasis and accumulation of misfolded proteins. These misfolded proteins further disrupt the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis by disrupting the activity of several ion channels including transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. TRP channel families include non-selective Ca2+ permeable channels, which act as cellular sensors activated by various physio-chemical stimuli, exogenous, and endogenous ligands responsible for maintaining the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. TRP channels are abundantly expressed in the neuronal cells and disturbance in their activity leads to various neuronal diseases. Under the pathological conditions when the activity of TRP channels is perturbed, there is a disruption of the neuronal homeostasis through increased inflammatory response, generation of reactive oxygen species, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, there is a potential of pharmacological interventions targeting TRP channels in CNS disorders. This review focuses on the role of TRP channels in neurological diseases; also, we have highlighted the current insights into the pharmacological modulators targeting TRP channels.
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Günaydın C, Arslan G, Bilge SS. Proconvulsant effect of trans-cinnamaldehyde in pentylenetetrazole-induced kindling model of epilepsy: The role of TRPA1 channels. Neurosci Lett 2020; 721:134823. [PMID: 32035165 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.134823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), a member of the TRP superfamily, is widely distributed in the central nervous system (CNS) and plays an important role in pain and inflammation. However, no data has been reported regarding the effects of TRPA1 on epileptic seizures. Thus, this study was designed to investigate the sub-chronic effect of trans-cinnamaldehyde (TCA), an agonist of TRPA1, in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced kindling model via electrocorticography (ECoG). Furthermore, the expressions of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and NMDA receptor subunit NR2B were measured using Western blotting. Rats were kindled by intraperitoneal (i.p.) PTZ (35 mg/kg) injections. After electrode implantation and healing period, 10 and 30 mg/kg TCA was given i.p. for 14 consecutive days. On the next day, ECoG recordings were obtained after the injection of PTZ (35 mg/kg, i.p.), and twenty-four hours later, rats were decapitated for molecular analyses. TCA, at a dose of 30 mg/kg, decreased the first myoclonic jerk latency and increased seizure duration and total spike activity. Additionally, both doses of TCA enhanced CREB, BDNF, and NR2B expressions, which were increased by the kindling. The evidence from this study suggests that long term activation of TRPA1 channels causes an exacerbated seizure activity. Moreover, PTZ-induced increases in CREB, BDNF, and NR2B levels were enhanced by the repeated administrations of TCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caner Günaydın
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Gökhan Arslan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - S Sırrı Bilge
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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11
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Yen LT, Hsieh CL, Hsu HC, Lin YW. Preventing the induction of acid saline-induced fibromyalgia pain in mice by electroacupuncture or APETx2 injection. Acupunct Med 2020; 38:188-193. [PMID: 31986902 PMCID: PMC7278366 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2017-011457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome involving chronic pain, fatigue, sleep difficulties, morning stiffness and muscle cramping lasting longer than 3 months. The epidemiological prevalence is approximately 3-5% in women and increases with age. Antagonism of acid-sensing ion channel 3 (ASIC3) reportedly attenuates acid saline-induced FM pain in mice. AIMS Whether pre-treatment with electroacupuncture (EA) or APETx2 can attenuate mechanical hyperalgesia in this murine model remains unknown. METHODS Accordingly, we examined the analgesic effect of EA in a murine model of FM pain induced by dual injections of acid saline and investigated whether EA or APETx2 can attenuate FM pain via the ASIC3 channel. RESULTS EA significantly reduced mechanical hyperalgesia in this model. ASIC3 antagonism, induced by injecting APETx2, also significantly reduced mechanical hyperalgesia. The expression of ASIC3 in the dorsal root ganglia, spinal cord and thalamus was increased after FM model induction. Over-expression of these nociceptive channels was attenuated by pre-treatment with EA or an ASIC3 antagonist. CONCLUSION Our data reveal that both EA and ASIC3 blockade significantly reduce FM pain in mice via the ASIC3, Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 signalling pathways. Moreover, our findings support the potential clinical use of EA for the treatment of FM pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang-Ta Yen
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Cheng Hsu
- College of Chinese Medicine, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,College of Chinese Medicine, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Master's Program for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.,Research Center for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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12
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Signal Transduction Pathways of Acupuncture for Treating Some Nervous System Diseases. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:2909632. [PMID: 31379957 PMCID: PMC6657648 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2909632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In this article, we review signal transduction pathways through which acupuncture treats nervous system diseases. We electronically searched the databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, clinical Key, the Cochrane Library, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure from their inception to December 2018 using the following MeSH headings and keywords alone or in varied combination: acupuncture, molecular, signal transduction, genetic, cerebral ischemic injury, cerebral hemorrhagic injury, stroke, epilepsy, seizure, depression, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, vascular dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Acupuncture treats nervous system diseases by increasing the brain-derived neurotrophic factor level and involves multiple signal pathways, including p38 MAPKs, Raf/MAPK/ERK 1/2, TLR4/ERK, PI3K/AKT, AC/cAMP/PKA, ASK1-JNK/p38, and downstream CREB, JNK, m-TOR, NF-κB, and Bcl-2/Bax balance. Acupuncture affects synaptic plasticity, causes an increase in neurotrophic factors, and results in neuroprotection, cell proliferation, antiapoptosis, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammation, and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier.
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13
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Electric Stimulation of Ear Reduces the Effect of Toll-Like Receptor 4 Signaling Pathway on Kainic Acid-Induced Epileptic Seizures in Rats. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:5407256. [PMID: 29682548 PMCID: PMC5846353 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5407256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common clinical syndrome with recurrent neuronal discharges in the temporal lobe, cerebral cortex, and hippocampus. Clinical antiepileptic medicines are often ineffective or of little benefit in 30% of epileptic patients and usually cause severe side effects. Emerging evidence indicates the crucial role of inflammatory mediators in epilepsy. The current study investigates the role of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and its underlying mechanisms in kainic acid- (KA-) induced epileptic seizures in rats. Experimental KA injection successfully initiated an epileptic seizure accompanied by increased expression of TLR4 in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and somatosensory cortex. In addition, calcium-sensitive phosphorylated Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (pCaMKIIα) increased after the initiation of the epileptic seizure. Furthermore, downstream-phosphorylated signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun NH2-terminal protein kinase (JNK), and p38 kinase simultaneously increased in these brain areas. Moreover, the transcriptional factor phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB (pNF-κB) increased, suggesting that nucleus transcription was affected. Furthermore, the aforementioned molecules decreased by an electric stimulation (ES) of either 2 Hz or 15 Hz of the ear in the three brain areas. Accordingly, we suggest that ES of the ear can successfully control epileptic seizures by regulating the TLR4 signaling pathway and has a therapeutic benefit in reducing epileptic seizures.
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14
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Yang J, Hsieh CL, Lin YW. Role of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 in Electroacupuncture Analgesia on Chronic Inflammatory Pain in Mice. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:5068347. [PMID: 29379798 PMCID: PMC5742878 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5068347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory pain may result from peripheral tissue injury or inflammation, increasing the release of protons, histamines, adenosine triphosphate, and several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is known to be involved in acute to subacute neuropathic and inflammatory pain; however, its exact mechanisms in chronic inflammatory pain are not elucidated. Our results showed that EA significantly reduced chronic mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia in the chronic inflammatory pain model. Chronic mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia were also abolished in TRPV1-/- mice. TRPV1 increased in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) at 3 weeks after CFA injection. The expression levels of downstream molecules such as pPKA, pPI3K, and pPKC increased, as did those of pERK, pp38, and pJNK. Transcription factors (pCREB and pNFκB) and nociceptive ion channels (Nav1.7 and Nav1.8) were involved in this process. Inflammatory mediators such as GFAP, S100B, and RAGE were also involved. The expression levels of these molecules were reduced in EA and TRPV1-/- mice but not in the sham EA group. Our data provided evidence to support the clinical use of EA for treating chronic inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yang
- Department of Acupuncture, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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15
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Targeting ASIC3 for Relieving Mice Fibromyalgia Pain: Roles of Electroacupuncture, Opioid, and Adenosine. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46663. [PMID: 28440280 PMCID: PMC5404229 DOI: 10.1038/srep46663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Many scientists are seeking better therapies for treating fibromyalgia (FM) pain. We used a mouse model of FM to determine if ASIC3 and its relevant signaling pathway participated in FM pain. We demonstrated that FM-induced mechanical hyperalgesia was attenuated by electroacupuncture (EA). The decrease in fatigue-induced lower motor function in FM mice was also reversed by EA. These EA-based effects were abolished by the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone and the adenosine A1 receptor antagonist rolofylline. Administration of opioid receptor agonist endomorphin (EM) or adenosine A1 receptor agonist N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA) has similar results to EA. Similar results were also observed in ASIC3−/− or ASIC3 antagonist (APETx2) injected mice. Using western blotting, we determined that pPKA, pPI3K, and pERK were increased during a dual acidic injection priming period. Nociceptive receptors, such as ASIC3, Nav1.7, and Nav1.8, were upregulated in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) of FM mice. Furthermore, pPKA, pPI3K, and pERK were increased in the central thalamus. These aforementioned mechanisms were completely abolished in ASIC3 knockout mice. Electrophysiological results also indicated that acid potentiated Nav currents through ASIC3 and ERK pathway. Our results highlight the crucial role of ASIC3-mediated mechanisms in the treatment of FM-induced mechanical hyperalgesia.
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16
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Liao ET, Tang NY, Lin YW, Liang Hsieh C. Long-term electrical stimulation at ear and electro-acupuncture at ST36-ST37 attenuated COX-2 in the CA1 of hippocampus in kainic acid-induced epileptic seizure rats. Sci Rep 2017; 7:472. [PMID: 28352122 PMCID: PMC5428861 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00601-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizures produce brain inflammation, which in turn enhances neuronal excitability. Therefore, anti-inflammation has become a therapeutic strategy for antiepileptic treatment. Cycloxygenase-2 (COX-2) plays a critical role in postseizure brain inflammation and neuronal hyperexcitability. Our previous studies have shown that both electrical stimulation (ES) at the ear and electro-acupuncture (EA) at the Zusanli and Shangjuxu acupoints (ST36–ST37) for 6 weeks can reduce mossy fiber sprouting, spike population, and high-frequency hippocampal oscillations in kainic acid (KA)-induced epileptic seizure rats. This study further investigated the effect of long-term ear ES and EA at ST36–ST37 on the inflammatory response in KA-induced epileptic seizure rats. Both the COX-2 levels in the hippocampus and the number of COX-2 immunoreactive cells in the hippocampal CA1 region were increased after KA-induced epileptic seizures, and these were reduced through the 6-week application of ear ES or EA at ST36–ST37. Thus, long-term ear ES or long-term EA at ST36–ST37 have an anti-inflammatory effect, suggesting that they are beneficial for the treatment of epileptic seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- En-Tzu Liao
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Nou-Ying Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.,Research Center for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Ching Liang Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan. .,Research Center for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan. .,Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan. .,Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan.
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17
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Long-Term Intake of Uncaria rhynchophylla Reduces S100B and RAGE Protein Levels in Kainic Acid-Induced Epileptic Seizures Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:9732854. [PMID: 28386293 PMCID: PMC5343263 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9732854] [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: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Epileptic seizures are crucial clinical manifestations of recurrent neuronal discharges in the brain. An imbalance between the excitatory and inhibitory neuronal discharges causes brain damage and cell loss. Herbal medicines offer alternative treatment options for epilepsy because of their low cost and few side effects. We established a rat epilepsy model by injecting kainic acid (KA, 12 mg/kg, i.p.) and subsequently investigated the effect of Uncaria rhynchophylla (UR) and its underlying mechanisms. Electroencephalogram and epileptic behaviors revealed that the KA injection induced epileptic seizures. Following KA injection, S100B levels increased in the hippocampus. This phenomenon was attenuated by the oral administration of UR and valproic acid (VA, 250 mg/kg). Both drugs significantly reversed receptor potentiation for advanced glycation end product proteins. Rats with KA-induced epilepsy exhibited no increase in the expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 3, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and chemokine receptor type 2, which play a role in inflammation. Our results provide novel and detailed mechanisms, explaining the role of UR in KA-induced epileptic seizures in hippocampal CA1 neurons.
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18
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Liao HY, Hsieh CL, Huang CP, Lin YW. Electroacupuncture Attenuates CFA-induced Inflammatory Pain by suppressing Nav1.8 through S100B, TRPV1, Opioid, and Adenosine Pathways in Mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42531. [PMID: 28211895 PMCID: PMC5304170 DOI: 10.1038/srep42531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is associated with several conditions, such as inflammation, that result from altered peripheral nerve properties. Electroacupuncture (EA) is a common Chinese clinical medical technology used for pain management. Using an inflammatory pain mouse model, we investigated the effects of EA on the regulation of neurons, microglia, and related molecules. Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) injections produced a significant mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia that was reversed by EA or a transient receptor potential V1 (TRPV1) gene deletion. The expression of the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), the microglial marker Iba-1, S100B, receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE), TRPV1, and other related molecules was dramatically increased in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH) of CFA-treated mice. This effect was reversed by EA and TRPV1 gene deletion. In addition, endomorphin (EM) and N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA) administration reliably reduced mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia, thereby suggesting the involvement of opioid and adenosine receptors. Furthermore, blocking of opioid and adenosine A1 receptors reversed the analgesic effects of EA. Our study illustrates the substantial therapeutic effects of EA against inflammatory pain and provides a novel and detailed mechanism underlying EA-mediated analgesia via neuronal and non-neuronal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Yin Liao
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Department of Acupuncture, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Research Center for Chinese Medicine &Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Ping Huang
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40401, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Research Center for Chinese Medicine &Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,College of Chinese Medicine, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,College of Chinese Medicine, Master's Program for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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19
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Association of lung cancer with skin diseases: A nationwide cohort study based on the “lung governing skin and hair” theory. Eur J Integr Med 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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20
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Lu KW, Yang J, Hsieh CL, Hsu YC, Lin YW. Electroacupuncture restores spatial learning and downregulates phosphorylated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Acupunct Med 2016; 35:133-141. [PMID: 27531695 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2015-011041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Parkinson's disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. PD can be classified as idiopathic, acquired or hereditary and may be caused by various factors such as oxidative stress, loss of mitochondrial function, neuronal excitotoxicity or calcium imbalance. METHODS We hypothesised that electroacupuncture (EA) at KI3 would reduce neuronal excitotoxicity by regulating N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function and may represent a novel therapeutic approach for PD. RESULTS Our results showed that deficits in spatial learning (reflected by the escape latency time in the Morris water maze task) and long-term potentiation (LTP) caused by systemic 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) administration (that damages dopaminergic neurons) could be rescued by EA on day 3. In PD mice, phosphorylated NMDA receptor subunits NR1 and NR2B were elevated (134.03±10.17% and 123.46±3.47% of baseline levels, respectively) but total NR1 and NR2B was unaffected (101.37±3.87% and 102.61±4.22% of baseline, respectively). Elevated levels of pNR1 and pNR2B, and phosphorylated forms of protein kinase A, protein kinase C, α Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase extracellular signal-regulated kinases (pERK), and cAMP response element-binding protein were also reduced following EA. CONCLUSIONS These novel findings suggest that EA can rescue learning and LTP deficits in a rodent model of PD. The results point to a possible role for EA-based approaches in the clinical treatment of learning deficits associated with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kung-Wen Lu
- College of Chinese Medicine, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Integrative Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chan Hsu
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Research Center for Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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21
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Lu KW, Hsieh CL, Yang J, Lin YW. Effects of electroacupuncture in a mouse model of fibromyalgia: role of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and related mechanisms. Acupunct Med 2016; 35:59-68. [PMID: 27381504 PMCID: PMC5466914 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2015-010986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation and downstream transduction pathways are crucial for pain signalling. Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common pain syndrome of unclear aetiology that is often drug-refractory but may benefit from treatment with electroacupuncture (EA). We examined the contributions of NMDAR signalling to FM pain and EA responses in a mouse model. Methods A model of FM was established by acid saline injection in 32 mice and subgroups (n=8 each) were treated with EA (2 Hz, 15 min daily for 4 days) or minimal acupuncture (MA). Expression of NMDAR subunits, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), cyclic AMP response element binding protein (pCREB) and their corresponding phospho-activated forms were measured by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Results Acid saline injection induced significant mechanical hyperalgesia (paw withdrawal threshold 2.18±0.27 g, p<0.05 vs controls), which was reversed by EA (4.23±0.33 g, p<0.05 vs FM group) but not by MA (2.37±0.14 g, p<0.05 vs EA group). Expression levels of phosphorylated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (pNR)1 and pNR2B were significantly increased in the dorsal root ganglion of FM model mice (132.21±14.4% and 116.69±3.22% of control values), whereas NR1 and NR2B levels were unchanged (97.31±3.79% and 97.07%±2.27%, respectively). Expression levels of pCaMKIIα and pCREB were also higher in the FM group, and these changes were reversed by EA but not by MA. Similar changes in expression were observed in spinal cord neurons. Conclusions Reduced NMDAR−CaMKIIα−pCREB signalling is implicated in the positive effects of EA in FM. NMDAR signalling components may represent promising therapeutic targets for FM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kung-Wen Lu
- College of Chinese Medicine, School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Integrative Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- College of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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22
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Probing the Effects and Mechanisms of Electroacupuncture at Ipsilateral or Contralateral ST36-ST37 Acupoints on CFA-induced Inflammatory Pain. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22123. [PMID: 26906464 PMCID: PMC4764889 DOI: 10.1038/srep22123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and associated signaling pathways have been reported to be increased in inflammatory pain signaling. There are accumulating evidences surrounding the therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture (EA). EA can reliably attenuate the increase of TRPV1 in mouse inflammatory pain models with unclear signaling mechanisms. Moreover, the difference in the clinical therapeutic effects between using the contralateral and ipsilateral acupoints has been rarely studied. We found that inflammatory pain, which was induced by injecting the complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), (2.14 ± 0.1, p < 0.05, n = 8) can be alleviated after EA treatment at either ipsilateral (3.91 ± 0.21, p < 0.05, n = 8) or contralateral acupoints (3.79 ± 0.25, p < 0.05, n = 8). EA may also reduce nociceptive Nav sodium currents in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. The expression of TRPV1 and associated signaling pathways notably increased after the CFA injection; this expression can be further attenuated significantly in EA treatment. TRPV1 and associated signaling pathways can be prevented in TRPV1 knockout mice, suggesting that TRPV1 knockout mice are resistant to inflammatory pain. Through this study, we have increased the understanding of the mechanism that both ipsilateral and contralateral EA might alter TRPV1 and associated signaling pathways to reduce inflammatory pain.
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Hou PW, Hsu HC, Lin YW, Tang NY, Cheng CY, Hsieh CL. The History, Mechanism, and Clinical Application of Auricular Therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:495684. [PMID: 26823672 PMCID: PMC4707384 DOI: 10.1155/2015/495684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Auricular therapy includes acupuncture, electroacupuncture, acupressure, lasering, cauterization, moxibustion, and bloodletting in the auricle. For 2500 years, people have employed auricular therapy for treating diseases, but the methods have been limited to bloodletting and cauterization. Only after 1957, the international scientific community became aware that the map of the ear resembles an inverted fetus, its introduction has led to auricular acupuncture (AA) becoming a more systemic approach, and, following the identification and standardization of more precise points, AA has been employed in clinical applications. The mechanisms of AA are considered to have a close relationship with the autonomic nervous system, the neuroendocrine system, neuroimmunological factors, neuroinflammation, and neural reflex, as well as antioxidation. Auricular therapy has been applied, for example, for pain relief, for the treatment of epilepsy, anxiety, and obesity, and for improving sleep quality. However, the mechanisms and evidence for auricular therapy warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu-Wei Hou
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Cheng Hsu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Nou-Ying Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Yi Cheng
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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24
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Targeting TRPV1 for Body Weight Control using TRPV1(-/-) Mice and Electroacupuncture. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17366. [PMID: 26621679 PMCID: PMC4664894 DOI: 10.1038/srep17366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a global social medical problem resulting in morbidity as high as 20–30%. Here we investigated whether the manipulation of TRPV1 can control mice body weight through electroacupuncture (EA). The results demonstrated that body weight increased with time in the control group (108.19 ± 1.31%, n = 7). The increase of mice body weight was significantly less in the EA group (104.41 ± 0.76%, p < 0.05, compared with the control group, n = 7) but not in the sham EA group (109.1 ± 0.63%, p < 0.05, compared with EA group, n = 7). EA did not decrease the gain of body weight in TRPV1 knock mice (107.94 ± 0.41% and 107.79 ± 1.04% for TRPV1−/− and TRPV1−/− with EA, respectively, p > 0.05). The visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) weight was lower in the EA group at 4 weeks after manipulation. Moreover, the protein levels of TRPV1, pPKA, pPKC, and pERK were increased in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) after EA treatment but not in the sham EA and TRPV1−/− mice. This study suggests that targeting TRPV1 is beneficial in controlling body weight and TRPV1-associated mechanisms in mice.
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Ibeas Bih C, Chen T, Nunn AVW, Bazelot M, Dallas M, Whalley BJ. Molecular Targets of Cannabidiol in Neurological Disorders. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:699-730. [PMID: 26264914 PMCID: PMC4604182 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0377-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 370] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis has a long history of anecdotal medicinal use and limited licensed medicinal use. Until recently, alleged clinical effects from anecdotal reports and the use of licensed cannabinoid medicines are most likely mediated by tetrahydrocannabinol by virtue of: 1) this cannabinoid being present in the most significant quantities in these preparations; and b) the proportion:potency relationship between tetrahydrocannabinol and other plant cannabinoids derived from cannabis. However, there has recently been considerable interest in the therapeutic potential for the plant cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD), in neurological disorders but the current evidence suggests that CBD does not directly interact with the endocannabinoid system except in vitro at supraphysiological concentrations. Thus, as further evidence for CBD's beneficial effects in neurological disease emerges, there remains an urgent need to establish the molecular targets through which it exerts its therapeutic effects. Here, we conducted a systematic search of the extant literature for original articles describing the molecular pharmacology of CBD. We critically appraised the results for the validity of the molecular targets proposed. Thereafter, we considered whether the molecular targets of CBD identified hold therapeutic potential in relevant neurological diseases. The molecular targets identified include numerous classical ion channels, receptors, transporters, and enzymes. Some CBD effects at these targets in in vitro assays only manifest at high concentrations, which may be difficult to achieve in vivo, particularly given CBD's relatively poor bioavailability. Moreover, several targets were asserted through experimental designs that demonstrate only correlation with a given target rather than a causal proof. When the molecular targets of CBD that were physiologically plausible were considered for their potential for exploitation in neurological therapeutics, the results were variable. In some cases, the targets identified had little or no established link to the diseases considered. In others, molecular targets of CBD were entirely consistent with those already actively exploited in relevant, clinically used, neurological treatments. Finally, CBD was found to act upon a number of targets that are linked to neurological therapeutics but that its actions were not consistent withmodulation of such targets that would derive a therapeutically beneficial outcome. Overall, we find that while >65 discrete molecular targets have been reported in the literature for CBD, a relatively limited number represent plausible targets for the drug's action in neurological disorders when judged by the criteria we set. We conclude that CBD is very unlikely to exert effects in neurological diseases through modulation of the endocannabinoid system. Moreover, a number of other molecular targets of CBD reported in the literature are unlikely to be of relevance owing to effects only being observed at supraphysiological concentrations. Of interest and after excluding unlikely and implausible targets, the remaining molecular targets of CBD with plausible evidence for involvement in therapeutic effects in neurological disorders (e.g., voltage-dependent anion channel 1, G protein-coupled receptor 55, CaV3.x, etc.) are associated with either the regulation of, or responses to changes in, intracellular calcium levels. While no causal proof yet exists for CBD's effects at these targets, they represent the most probable for such investigations and should be prioritized in further studies of CBD's therapeutic mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clementino Ibeas Bih
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
| | - Tong Chen
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
| | | | - Michaël Bazelot
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
- GW Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Chivers Way, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9BZ, UK
| | - Mark Dallas
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK
| | - Benjamin J Whalley
- School of Chemistry, Food and Nutritional Sciences, and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AP, UK.
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