1
|
Ke C, Shan S, Tan Y, Cao Y, Xie Z, Shi S, Pan J, Zhang W. Signaling pathways in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease with acupuncture: a narrative review. Acupunct Med 2024; 42:216-230. [PMID: 38859546 DOI: 10.1177/09645284241256669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, there is no effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is increasing in prevalence worldwide. The objective of this review was to summarize the core targets and signaling pathways involved in acupuncture treatment for AD. METHODS We reviewed numerous signaling pathways, including mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B (PI3 K/Akt), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor (NF)-kB, p53, Wnt, nitric oxide (NO), Janus kinase / signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/ STAT), RhoA/ROCK (Rho-associated protein kinase) and Ca2+/ calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) / cyclic adenosine monophosphate-response element-binding protein (CREB). The relevant data were obtained from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang databases. RESULTS In summary, the effects of acupuncture are mediated by multiple targets and pathways. Furthermore, acupuncture can improve pathological changes associated with AD (such as abnormal deposition of amyloid (A)β, tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction and neuronal apoptosis) through multiple signaling pathways. CONCLUSION Overall, our findings provide a basis for future research into the effects of acupuncture on AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ke
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Shengtao Shan
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Tan
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Yang Cao
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhengrong Xie
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Senjie Shi
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Jiang Pan
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tan Q, Liu X, Xu S, Chen J, Li W, Zhang S, Du Y. Global trends and hotspots in research on acupuncture for neurodegenerative diseases over the last decade: a bibliometric and visualization analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1390384. [PMID: 38800611 PMCID: PMC11116584 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1390384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to explore the current status and trends of acupuncture for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) in the last decade and provide new insights for researchers in future studies. Methods The publications concerning acupuncture treatment for NDs published between 2014 and 2023 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection. We used CiteSpace and VOSviewer to analyze data on numbers of annual publications, countries, institutions, cited journals, cited authors, cited references, keywords, and citation bursts about acupuncture for NDs. Results A total of 635 publications were obtained from 2014 to 2023. We identified the most prolific journals, countries, institutions, authors, patterns of authorship, and the main direction of future research in the field of acupuncture for NDs in the last decade. The country, institution, and journal with the most publications are China (389 articles), Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (56 articles), and Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (42 articles), respectively. The high-frequency keywords focused on "Alzheimer's disease," "Parkinson's disease," "acupuncture," "dementia," and "electroacupuncture." The top five keywords in terms of centrality were "cerebral ischemia," "acupuncture stimulation," "fMRI," "apoptosis," and "deep brain stimulation." Conclusion The results from this bibliometric study provide insight into the research trends in acupuncture therapy for NDs, and the current status and trends of the past decade, which may help researchers confirm the current status, hotspots, and frontier trends in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Tan
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuyu Xu
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiangmin Chen
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Weixian Li
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanjun Du
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Shizhen Laboratory, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zgorzynska E. TREM2 in Alzheimer's disease: Structure, function, therapeutic prospects, and activation challenges. Mol Cell Neurosci 2024; 128:103917. [PMID: 38244651 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2024.103917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is a membrane glycoprotein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of microglial survival, activation, phagocytosis, as well as in the maintenance of brain homeostasis and the inflammatory response to injury or neurodegeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of TREM2 structure and functions, highlighting the role of its variants in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a devastating neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Additionally, the article discusses the potential of TREM2 as a therapeutic target in AD, analyzing the current state of research and future prospects. Given the significant challenges associated with the activation of TREM2, particularly due to its diverse isoforms and the delicate balance required to modulate the immune response without triggering hyperactivation, this review aims to enhance our understanding of TREM2 in AD and inspire further research into this promising yet challenging therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Zgorzynska
- Department of Cell-to-Cell Communication, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen Z, Wang X, Du S, Liu Q, Xu Z, Guo Y, Lin X. A review on traditional Chinese medicine natural products and acupuncture intervention for Alzheimer's disease based on the neuroinflammatory. Chin Med 2024; 19:35. [PMID: 38419106 PMCID: PMC10900670 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00900-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease with insidious onset and progressive development. It is clinically characterized by cognitive impairment, memory impairment and behavioral change. Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture are important components of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and are commonly used in clinical treatment of AD. This paper systematically summarizes the research progress of traditional Chinese medicine natural products and acupuncture treatment of AD, which combined with existing clinical and preclinical evidence, based on a comprehensive review of neuroinflammation, and discusses the efficacy and potential mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine natural products and acupuncture treatment of AD. Resveratrol, curcumin, kaempferol and other Chinese herbal medicine components can significantly inhibit the neuroinflammation of AD in vivo and in vitro, and are candidates for the treatment of AD. Acupuncture can alleviate the memory and cognitive impairment of AD by improving neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, nerve cell apoptosis and reducing the production and aggregation of amyloid β protein (Aβ) in the brain. It has the characteristics of early, safe, effective and benign bidirectional adjustment. The purpose of this paper is to provide a basis for improving the clinical strategies of TCM for the treatment of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihan Chen
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinrui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Simin Du
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Theory of Innovation and Application, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Theory of Innovation and Application, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Theory of Innovation and Application, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
JIANG J, ZHANG X, LUO Z, SU C, ZHOU H, JIANG Y, XIAO X, CHEN Y, ZHU J. Efficacy of electroacupuncture stimulating Zusanli (ST36) and Xuanzhong (GB39) on synovial angiogenesis in rats with adjuvant arthritis. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2023; 43:955-962. [PMID: 37679983 PMCID: PMC10465822 DOI: 10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.20221111.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulating Zusanli (ST36) and Xuanzhong (GB39) on synovial angiogenesis in rats with adjuvant arthritis (AA). METHODS AA models were established by bilateral injection of Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Three days after injection, rats were given EA at Zusanli (ST36) and Xuanzhong (GB39) acupoints, once every other day, for 16 d. The arthritis index score, paw volume, and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed for each animal. Angiogenesis marker cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34) expression and synovial cell apoptosis in synovial tissue were observed. The levels of Notch1, hairy and enhancer of split homolog-1 (Hes1), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were subsequently detected. RESULTS We found that EA significantly decreased arthritis index scores, paw volume, and HE staining scores. EA could significantly inhibit the expression of CD34, promoting apoptosis of synovial cells in the joint synovial tissue of AA rats. The expression of Notch1 signaling pathway proteins and mRNAs (Notch1, Hes1, TGF-β, and bFGF) were markedly downregulated by EA treatment. CONCLUSIONS These results prove that EA attenuates synovial angiogenesis by inhibiting the Notch1 signaling pathway in AA rat models. Based on our findings, we propose that EA is a promising complementary and alternative therapy in rheumatoid arthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhen JIANG
- 1 School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Xin ZHANG
- 1 School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Zhenguo LUO
- 2 Vocational Training Department, Acupuncture and Moxibustion School Affiliated to Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Chengguo SU
- 3 Department of Acupuncture, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Haiyan ZHOU
- 1 School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Yuqing JIANG
- 1 School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Xianjun XIAO
- 1 School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Yunfei CHEN
- 3 Department of Acupuncture, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Jun ZHU
- 1 School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhang Z, Chen L, Guo Y, Li D, Zhang J, Liu L, Fan W, Guo T, Qin S, Zhao Y, Xu Z, Chen Z. The neuroprotective and neural circuit mechanisms of acupoint stimulation for cognitive impairment. Chin Med 2023; 18:8. [PMID: 36670425 PMCID: PMC9863122 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00707-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a prevalent neurological disorder that burdens families and the healthcare system. Current conventional therapies for cognitive impairment, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists, are unable to completely stop or reverse the progression of the disease. Also, these medicines may cause serious problems with the digestive system, cardiovascular system, and sleep. Clinically, stimulation of acupoints has the potential to ameliorate the common symptoms of a variety of cognitive disorders, such as memory deficit, language dysfunction, executive dysfunction, reduced ability to live independently, etc. There are common acupoint stimulation mechanisms for treating various types of cognitive impairment, but few systematic analyses of the underlying mechanisms in this domain have been performed. This study comprehensively reviewed the basic research from the last 20 years and found that acupoint stimulation can effectively improve the spatial learning and memory of animals. The common mechanism may be that acupoint stimulation protects hippocampal neurons by preventing apoptosis and scavenging toxic proteins. Additionally, acupoint stimulation has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting neural regeneration, regulating synaptic plasticity, and normalizing neural circuits by restoring brain functional activity and connectivity. Acupoint stimulation also inhibits the production of amyloid β-peptide and the phosphorylation of Tau protein, suggesting that it may protect neurons by promoting correct protein folding and regulating the degradation of toxic proteins via the autophagy-lysosomal pathway. However, the benefits of acupoint stimulation still need to be further explored in more high-quality studies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Zhang
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Liuyi Chen
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.257143.60000 0004 1772 1285First Clinical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Li
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingyu Zhang
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Liu
- grid.257143.60000 0004 1772 1285First Clinical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065 People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Fan
- grid.412879.10000 0004 0374 1074Department of Rehabilitation Physical Therapy Course, Faculty of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka City, 5100293 Japan
| | - Tao Guo
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Siru Qin
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yadan Zhao
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zelin Chen
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhou R, Xiao L, Xiao W, Yi Y, Wen H, Wang H. Bibliometric review of 1992–2022 publications on acupuncture for cognitive impairment. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1006830. [PMID: 36226080 PMCID: PMC9549373 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1006830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the development context, research hotspots, and frontiers of acupuncture therapy for cognitive impairment (CI) from 1992 to 2022 by visualization analysis. Methods Articles about acupuncture therapy for cognitive impairment were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) until 1 March 2022. Basic information was collected by Excel 2007, and VOSviewer 1.6.17 was used to analyze the co-occurrence of countries, institutes, and authors. Co-citation maps of authors and references were analyzed by CiteSpace V.5.8.R3. In addition, CiteSpace was used to analyze keyword clusters and forecast research frontiers. Results A total of 279 articles were retrieved, including articles from 19 countries, 334 research institutes, and 101 academic journals. The most published country and institutes were the People's Republic of China (217) and the Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (40). Ronald C Petersen owned the highest co-citations (56). Keywords and co-cited references cluster showed the main research directions in this area, including “ischemic stroke,” “cerebral ischemia/reperfusion,” “mild cognitive impairment,” “Alzheimer's disease,” “vascular dementia,” “vascular cognitive impairment with no dementia,” “multi-infarct dementia,” “synaptic injury,” “functional MRI,” “glucose metabolism,” “NMDA,” “nuclear factor-kappa b pathway,” “neurotrophic factor,” “matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2),” “tumor necrosis factor-alpha,” “Bax,” “Caspase-3,” and “Noxa”. Trending keywords may indicate frontier topics, such as “randomized controlled trial,” “rat model,” and “meta-analysis.” Conclusion This research provides valuable information for the study of acupuncture. Diseases focus on mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD). Tauopathies with hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein as the main lesions also need to be paid attention to. The development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) will better explain the therapeutic effect of acupuncture treatment. The effect of acupuncture on a single point is more convincing, and acupuncture on Baihui (GV20) may be needed in the future. Finally, the implementation of high-quality multicenter randomized controlled trials (RCTs) requires increased collaboration among experts from multiple fields and countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runjin Zhou
- Medical College of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Ganzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lu Xiao
| | - Wei Xiao
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Ganzhou, China
| | - Yanfei Yi
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Ganzhou, China
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fu QH, Pei J, Zhou HG, Wang T, Zhan YJ, Tao L, Xu J, Zhou Q, Wang LY. Effect of acupuncture with donepezil based on syndrome differentiation on cognitive function in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease: a study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:695. [PMID: 35986297 PMCID: PMC9389745 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06532-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
There has been a rapid increase in the worldwide prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Previous studies have shown that acupuncture can improve neurological and cognitive function; however, the utility of applying acupuncture in patients with AD remains unclear. This study protocol describes a clinical trial for evaluating the efficacy and safety of acupuncture based on syndrome differentiation with donepezil hydrochloride on cognitive function in patients with AD.
Methods/design
This multicenter randomized controlled trial commenced on February 1, 2019, at the Shanghai Longhua Hospital of TCM, Shanghai Huashan Hospital of Fudan University, and Shanghai Mental Health Center, and will conclude on June 30, 2022. The study will recruit 184 patients randomly divided into an acupuncture group or a control group at a 1:1 ratio. All participants will receive donepezil hydrochloride (5 mg/day), and those in the acupuncture group will receive acupuncture based on syndrome differentiation with donepezil for 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be the post-treatment change in the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-cognition score at 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes will be the efficacy scores of the Minimum Mental State Examination, Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Research Activity-Daily Life, and Quality of Life-Alzheimer’s Disease. All assessments will be performed at baseline, after treatment (week 12), and at follow-up (weeks 24 and 36).
Discussion
This trial may provide high-quality evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of AD. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.govNCT03810794. Registered on 17 January 2019.
Collapse
|
9
|
Burlacu CC, Neag MA, Mitre AO, Sirbu AC, Badulescu AV, Buzoianu AD. The Role of miRNAs in Dexmedetomidine's Neuroprotective Effects against Brain Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105452. [PMID: 35628263 PMCID: PMC9141783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
There are limited neuroprotective strategies for various central nervous system conditions in which fast and sustained management is essential. Neuroprotection-based therapeutics have become an intensively researched topic in the neuroscience field, with multiple novel promising agents, from natural products to mesenchymal stem cells, homing peptides, and nanoparticles-mediated agents, all aiming to significantly provide neuroprotection in experimental and clinical studies. Dexmedetomidine (DEX), an α2 agonist commonly used as an anesthetic adjuvant for sedation and as an opioid-sparing medication, stands out in this context due to its well-established neuroprotective effects. Emerging evidence from preclinical and clinical studies suggested that DEX could be used to protect against cerebral ischemia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury, neurodegenerative diseases, and postoperative cognitive disorders. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression at a post-transcriptional level, inhibiting the translation of mRNA into functional proteins. In vivo and in vitro studies deciphered brain-related miRNAs and dysregulated miRNA profiles after several brain disorders, including TBI, ischemic stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, providing emerging new perspectives in neuroprotective therapy by modulating these miRNAs. Experimental studies revealed that some of the neuroprotective effects of DEX are mediated by various miRNAs, counteracting multiple mechanisms in several disease models, such as lipopolysaccharides induced neuroinflammation, β-amyloid induced dysfunction, brain ischemic-reperfusion injury, and anesthesia-induced neurotoxicity models. This review aims to outline the neuroprotective mechanisms of DEX in brain disorders by modulating miRNAs. We address the neuroprotective effects of DEX by targeting miRNAs in modulating ischemic brain injury, ameliorating the neurotoxicity of anesthetics, reducing postoperative cognitive dysfunction, and improving the effects of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Codrin-Constantin Burlacu
- Faculty of Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.-C.B.); (A.-O.M.); (A.-V.B.)
| | - Maria-Adriana Neag
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-C.S.); (A.-D.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrei-Otto Mitre
- Faculty of Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.-C.B.); (A.-O.M.); (A.-V.B.)
| | - Alexandru-Constantin Sirbu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-C.S.); (A.-D.B.)
| | - Andrei-Vlad Badulescu
- Faculty of Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.-C.B.); (A.-O.M.); (A.-V.B.)
| | - Anca-Dana Buzoianu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.-C.S.); (A.-D.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Visualization and Analysis of the Mapping Knowledge Domain of Acupuncture and Central Nervous System Cell Apoptosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:1751702. [PMID: 35463084 PMCID: PMC9023158 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1751702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Chinese acupuncture therapy has demonstrated good clinical effects on neurological diseases and is widely used internationally. In the past 20 years, an increasing number of researchers around the world have devoted themselves to the study of the effect and mechanism of acupuncture for the treatment of central nervous system cell apoptosis. To discover the current research status of acupuncture-induced antiapoptosis in the central nervous system, we used the method of scientometric research and data visualization software to visually analyse 155 articles. The findings are as follows. First, the antiapoptosis effects of acupuncture in the central nervous system have received increasing attention overseas and domestically. China and the United States have leading positions in this research field. Second, 5 stable and high-yielding research teams have been formed in the field of acupuncture-induced antiapoptosis. The main research directions of these teams are electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment for the central nervous system cell apoptosis, acupuncture for antineuronal apoptosis in vascular dementia, EA regulation of related signalling pathways, EA regulation of nerve cell apoptosis and autophagy after stroke, and EA regulation of the MAPK signalling pathway. Researchers on teams with more extensive cooperation have more research results and better research continuity. Third, there are diversified research hotspots. The original research hotspots are still receiving attention, and new hotspots have emerged in recent years.
Collapse
|
11
|
Sun L, Yong Y, Wei P, Wang Y, Li H, Zhou Y, Ruan W, Li X, Song J. Electroacupuncture ameliorates postoperative cognitive dysfunction and associated neuroinflammation via NLRP3 signal inhibition in aged mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2021; 28:390-400. [PMID: 34951130 PMCID: PMC8841296 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is associated with worsened prognosis especially in aged population. Clinical and animal studies suggested that electroacupuncture (EA) could improve POCD. However, the underlying mechanisms especially EA’s regulatory role of inflammasomes remain unclear. Methods The model of POCD was established by partial hepatectomy surgery in 18‐month mice with or without postoperative EA treatment to the Baihui acupoint (GV20) for 7 days. Cognitive functions were assessed by Morris water maze test, and proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β and IL‐6 and microglia activity were assayed by qPCR, ELISA, or immunohistochemistry. Tight junction proteins, NLRP3 inflammasome and downstream proteins, and NF‐κB pathway proteins were evaluated by western blotting. Results EA markedly preserved cognitive dysfunctions in POCD mice, associated with the inhibition of neuroinflammation as evidenced by reduced microglial activation and decreased IL‐1β and IL‐6 levels in brain tissue. EA also preserved hippocampal neurons and tight junction proteins ZO‐1 and claudin 5. Mechanistically, the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF‐κB was inhibited by EA, while NLRP3 activation abolished EA’s treatment effects on cognitive function. Conclusion EA alleviates POCD‐mediated cognitive dysfunction associated with ameliorated neuroinflammation. Mechanistically, EA’s treatment effects are dependent on NLRP3 inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yue Yong
- Research Institute of Acupuncture Anesthesia, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Pan Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yongqiang Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - He Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yalan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Wenqing Ruan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Jiangang Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Teja Y, Helianthi DR, Nareswari I. The Role of Medical Acupuncture Therapy in Alzheimer's Disease. Med Acupunct 2021; 33:396-402. [PMID: 34987697 PMCID: PMC8717884 DOI: 10.1089/acu.2021.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory deficits and other cognitive disorders, which can be accompanied by personality changes. Long-term use of medications available to treat AD today have a variety of side-effects. Acupuncture, as a nonpharmacologic therapeutic modality providing stimulation at acupuncture points, using filiform needles, has been widely tested and used to manage of AD and can be a therapeutic option, considering its effectiveness and lack of side-effects. Methods: This literature review examines the role of acupuncture in AD treatment. Results: Acupuncture can ameliorate AD symptoms through decreasing amyloid-β protein, reducing neuroinflammation, enhancing the antioxidant system, improving neurogenesis, enhancing prosurvival protein, reducing proapoptotic protein, and regulating brain energy metabolism. Conclusions: According to various research findings, acupuncture may be a therapeutic choice for addressing AD that avoids the long-term side-effects caused by medical therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Teja
- Department of Medical Acupuncture, RSUPN
Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
- Medical Acupuncture Specialist Program,
Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Rachma Helianthi
- Department of Medical Acupuncture, RSUPN
Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
- Medical Acupuncture Specialist Program,
Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Irma Nareswari
- Department of Medical Acupuncture, RSUPN
Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Central Jakarta, Indonesia
- Medical Acupuncture Specialist Program,
Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The Role of Acupuncture Improving Cognitive Deficits due to Alzheimer's Disease or Vascular Diseases through Regulating Neuroplasticity. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:8868447. [PMID: 33505460 PMCID: PMC7815402 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8868447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia affects millions of elderly worldwide causing remarkable costs to society, but effective treatment is still lacking. Acupuncture is one of the complementary therapies that has been applied to cognitive deficits such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), while the underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic efficiency remain elusive. Neuroplasticity is defined as the ability of the nervous system to adapt to internal and external environmental changes, which may support some data to clarify mechanisms how acupuncture improves cognitive impairments. This review summarizes the up-to-date and comprehensive information on the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment on neurogenesis and gliogenesis, synaptic plasticity, related regulatory factors, and signaling pathways, as well as brain network connectivity, to lay ground for fully elucidating the potential mechanism of acupuncture on the regulation of neuroplasticity and promoting its clinical application as a complementary therapy for AD and VCI.
Collapse
|
14
|
Yu CC, Du YJ, Wang SQ, Liu LB, Shen F, Wang L, Lin YF, Kong LH. Experimental Evidence of the Benefits of Acupuncture for Alzheimer's Disease: An Updated Review. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:549772. [PMID: 33408601 PMCID: PMC7779610 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.549772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As the global population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is also increasing. At present, there are no widely recognized drugs able to ameliorate the cognitive dysfunction caused by AD. The failure of several promising clinical trials in recent years has highlighted the urgent need for novel strategies to both prevent and treat AD. Notably, a growing body of literature supports the efficacy of acupuncture for AD. In this review, we summarize the previously reported mechanisms of acupuncture's beneficial effects in AD, including the ability of acupuncture to modulate Aβ metabolism, tau phosphorylation, neurotransmitters, neurogenesis, synapse and neuron function, autophagy, neuronal apoptosis, neuroinflammation, cerebral glucose metabolism, and brain responses. Taken together, these findings suggest that acupuncture provides therapeutic effects for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Chao Yu
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yan-Jun Du
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu-Qin Wang
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Le-Bin Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Rongjun Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Shen
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan-Fang Lin
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li-Hong Kong
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sun W, Zhao J, Li C. Dexmedetomidine Provides Protection Against Hippocampal Neuron Apoptosis and Cognitive Impairment in Mice with Alzheimer's Disease by Mediating the miR-129/YAP1/JAG1 Axis. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 57:5044-5055. [PMID: 32839917 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02069-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease that leads to progressive cognitive, memory, and learning dysfunction that affects the aging population. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) might be beneficial for postoperative cognitive function in elderly patients. However, the exact mechanism underlying the protective role of Dex against cognitive impairment requires further elucidation. The present study aims to determine whether miR-129 is involved in the protective effect of Dex against Aβ1-42-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis and cognitive impairment in mice. In our study, Y-shaped maze and water maze tests were conducted to evaluate the cognitive function of AD mice, while neuronal apoptosis was measured by Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase-Mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) staining. The findings showed that Dex administration resulted in the enhancement of miR-129 expression with declined hippocampal neuron apoptosis and attenuated cognitive impairment in Aβ1-42-injected mice. miR-129 targeted YAP1 and disrupted its interaction with JAG1, leading to a decline in hippocampal neuron apoptosis and attenuated cognitive impairment in Aβ1-42-injected mice. In conclusion, the miR-129/YAP1/JAG1 axis could potentially be the mechanism by which Dex protects AD mice from cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiying Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Linyi People's Hospital, No. 27, Jiefang East Road, Lanshan District, Linyi, 276000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, 276000, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunzhi Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Linyi People's Hospital, No. 27, Jiefang East Road, Lanshan District, Linyi, 276000, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen D, Zhang Y, Wang C, Wang X, Shi J, Zhang J, Guan W, Li B, Fan W. Modulation of hippocampal dopamine and synapse-related proteins by electroacupuncture improves memory deficit caused by sleep deprivation. Acupunct Med 2020; 38:343-351. [PMID: 32370535 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420902147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep is crucial for proper functioning of the brain, whereas lack of sleep is very common in modern society and can cause memory impairment. Hence, it is of great significance to find effective methods to intervene in the pathogenesis of memory impairment. OBJECTIVE We designed this study to explore the mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the deficits caused by sleep deprivation (SD). METHODS In this study, we first utilized the modified multiple platform method (MMPM) to establish a rat model of SD, which was followed by use of the Y-maze and Morris water maze (MWM) to assess the performance of rats following EA treatment. RESULTS We found that EA at GV20 and ST36 significantly decreased the number of error reactions, increased the number of active avoidance responses in the Y-maze and shortened the latency of finding the platform in the MWM test in SD + EA versus untreated SD groups. Moreover, EA treatment partially restored SD-induced reductions in hippocampal dopamine (DA) content and significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated (p) synapsin I, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) II, and tyrosine hydroxylase, which are related to the synthesis and release of DA. CONCLUSIONS In summary, we it appears that EA at GV20 and ST36 may improve SD-induced memory deficits by restoring the quantity of DA in the hippocampus, which is related to activation of CaMK II, synapsin I, and tyrosine hydroxylase. EA may have potential as an alternative therapy for SD and could improve learning and memory deficits among those suffering from sleep deficiency, although this needs verification by prospective clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danmei Chen
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunpeng Zhang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cuiting Wang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaokun Wang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jimin Shi
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihong Zhang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wencai Guan
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Li
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhao FY, Fu QQ, Zheng Z, Lao LX, Song HL, Shi Z. Verum- versus Sham-Acupuncture on Alzheimer's Disease (AD) in Animal Models: A Preclinical Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:5901573. [PMID: 32337259 PMCID: PMC7150729 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5901573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common health condition affecting senile people and leads to severe cognitive dysfunctions. Acupuncture has been shown to be a possible alternative natural remedy for AD in some animal studies. OBJECTIVE To perform a systematic review to identify the effect of verum-acupuncture compared with sham-acupuncture on learning and memory performance among animal models of AD. METHODS Experimental animal studies of treating AD via verum- and sham- acupuncture were searched in nine electronic databases, including Sciverse ScienceDirect, PubMed, Springer, Ebsco Medline, AMED, EMBASE (Elsevier), Scopus (Elsevier), PsycINFO (ProQuest), and OVID from the dates of the databases' inception to June 2019. The Morris water maze test was considered as an outcome measure. The software Revman 5.3 and Stata 16.0 were used to conduct the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was examined by using I2 statistics. The publication bias was assessed via Begg's test by Stata 16.0. RESULTS Twelve studies involving 229 animals met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies had a moderate quality according to SYRCLE's risk of bias tool for animal studies. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that verum-acupuncture could reduce the escape latency (MD = -12.90, 95% CI (-17.08, -8.71), p < 0.001) and increase the time spent in the original platform quadrant (MD = 7.28, 95% CI (4.23, 10.33), p < 0.001) and frequency of the crossing former platform (MD = 2.01, 95% CI (1.53, 2.50), p < 0.001) compared with the sham-acupuncture. CONCLUSIONS Acupuncture is effective in improving cognitive functions in AD animal models, and this benefit is more than just a placebo effect. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm the findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Yi Zhao
- Department of Nursing, School of International Medical Technology, Shanghai Sanda University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang-Qiang Fu
- Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Zheng
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Li-Xing Lao
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, Fairfax, VA 22031, USA
| | - Hua-Ling Song
- School of Public Health, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zumin Shi
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Science, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ding N, Jiang J, Tian H, Wang S, Li Z. Benign Regulation of the Astrocytic Phospholipase A 2-Arachidonic Acid Pathway: The Underlying Mechanism of the Beneficial Effects of Manual Acupuncture on CBF. Front Neurosci 2020; 13:1354. [PMID: 32174802 PMCID: PMC7054756 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The astrocytic phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-arachidonic acid (AA) pathway is crucial in understanding the reduction of cerebral blood flow (CBF) prior to cognitive deterioration. In complementary and alternative medicine, manual acupuncture (MA) is used as one of the most important therapies for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The beneficial effects of MA on CBF were reported in our previous study. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains largely elusive. Objective To investigate the effect of MA on the astrocytic PLA2-AA pathway in SAMP8 mice hippocampi. Methods SAMP8 mice were divided into the SAMP8 control (Pc) group, the SAMP8 MA (Pm) group and the SAMP8 donepezil (Pd) group. SAMR1 mice were used as the SAMRl control (Rc) group. Mice in the Pd group were treated with donepezil hydrochloride at 0.65 μg/g. In the Pm group, MA was applied at Baihui (GV20) and Yintang (GV29) for 20 min. The above treatments were administered once a day for 26 consecutive days. The Morris water maze was applied to assess spatial learning and memory. Immunofluorescence staining, western blot and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were used to investigate the expression of related proteins and measure the contents of the metabolic intermediates of the PLA2-AA pathway. Results Compared with that in the Rc group, the escape latency in the Pc group significantly increased (p < 0.01); whereas, the platform crossover number and percentage of time and swimming distance in the platform quadrant decreased (p < 0.01). The hippocampal expression of PLA2, cyclooxygenase-1, cytochrome P450 proteins 2C23 and the levels of AA, prostaglandin E2 and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids of the Pc group was drastically higher than that in the Rc group (p < 0.01). These changes were reversed by MA and donepezil (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). Conclusion MA can effectively improve the learning and memory abilities of SAMP8 mice and has a negative regulatory effect on the PLA2-AA pathway. We propose that the increase of the arterial tone, which is induced by the inhibition of vasodilatory pathway, may be a reason for the beneficial effect of MA on CBF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Jiang
- School of Nursing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Huiling Tian
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shun Wang
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
As the worldwide population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) increases. However, the results of promising medications have been unsatisfactory. Chinese acupuncture has a long history of treating dementia, but lack of evidence from well-designed randomized controlled trials that validate its efficacy and safety, as well as its lack of clear underlying mechanisms, contribute to its limited application in clinical practice. In recent years, brain imaging technologies, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography, have been used to assess brain responses to acupuncture in a dynamic, visual, and objective way. These techniques are frequently used to explore neurological mechanisms of responses to acupuncture in AD and provide neuroimaging evidence as well as starting points to elucidate the possible mechanisms. This review summarizes the existing brain imaging evidence that explains the effects of acupuncture for AD and analyzes brain responses to acupuncture at cognitive-related acupoints [Baihui (GV 20), Shenmen (HT 7), Zusanli (ST 36), Neiguan (PC 6), and Taixi (KI 3)] from perspectives of acupoint specificity and acupoint combinations. Key issues and directions to consider in future studies are also put forward. This review should deepen our understanding of how brain imaging studies can be used to explore the underlying mechanisms of acupuncture in AD.
Collapse
|
20
|
Guo X, Ma T. Effects of Acupuncture on Neurological Disease in Clinical- and Animal-Based Research. Front Integr Neurosci 2019; 13:47. [PMID: 31543763 PMCID: PMC6729102 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2019.00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disease, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), which were caused by abnormalities in the nervous system involves the accumulation of false proteins, neurotransmitter abnormalities, neuronal apoptosis, etc. As an alternative supplementary medicine (ASM), acupuncture plays an important role in the treatment of neurological diseases. In this review article, we summarized the current evidence for the treatment efficacy of acupuncture in AD and PD from the perspective of clinical trials and animal model. Acupuncture can inhibit the accumulation of toxic proteins in neurological diseases, modulate energy supply based on glucose metabolism, depress neuronal apoptosis, etc., and exert a wide range of neuroprotective effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Guo
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Ma
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Transcription Repressor Hes1 Contributes to Neuropathic Pain Development by Modifying CDK9/RNAPII-Dependent Spinal mGluR5 Transcription. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174177. [PMID: 31454988 PMCID: PMC6747068 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse transcriptional controls in the dorsal horn have been observed in pain hypersensitivity. However, the understanding of the exact causes and mechanisms of neuropathic pain development is still fragmentary. Here, the results demonstrated nerve injury decreased the expression of spinal hairy and enhancer of split 1 (Hes1), a transcriptional repressor, and enhanced metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5) transcription/expression, which was accompanied with behavioral allodynia. Moreover, nerve injury decreased Hes1 levels and reciprocally increased cyclin dependent kinase-9 (CDK9) levels and recruited CDK9 to phosphorylate RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) in the promoter fragments of mGluR5, thereby enhancing mGluR5 transcription/expression in the dorsal horn. These effects were also induced by intrathecally administering naïve rats with Hes1 small interfering RNA (siRNA). Conversely, Hes1 overexpression using intrathecal lentiviral vectors in nerve injury rats produced reversal of pain behavior and reversed protein expressions, phosphorylation, and coupling to the promoter segments in the dorsal horn. Collectively, the results in this study indicated nerve injury diminishes spinal Hes1-dependent suppression of CDK9-dependent RNAPII phosphorylation on the mGluR5 promoter that possibly enhances mGluR5 transcription/expression for neuropathic pain development.
Collapse
|
22
|
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.
Collapse
|
23
|
Electro-acupuncture therapy to improve spatial learning and memory in APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice through the inhibition of the TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICAL SCIENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcms.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
|
24
|
Ding N, Jiang J, Xu A, Tang Y, Li Z. Manual Acupuncture Regulates Behavior and Cerebral Blood Flow in the SAMP8 Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:37. [PMID: 30766475 PMCID: PMC6365452 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that cerebrovascular function abnormality plays a key role in occurrence and worsening of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Reduction of cerebral blood flow (CBF) is a sensitive marker to early perfusion deficiencies in AD. As one of the most important therapies in complementary and alternative medicine, manual acupuncture (MA) has been used in the treatment of AD. However, the moderating effect of MA on CBF remains largely unknown. Objective: To investigate the effect of MA on the behavior and CBF of SAMP8 mice. Methods: SAMP8 mice were randomly divided into the AD, MA, and medicine (M) groups, with SAMR1 mice used as the normal control (N) group. Mice in the M group were treated with donepezil hydrochloride at 0.65 μg/g. In the MA group, MA was applied at Baihui (GV20) and Yintang (GV29) for 20 min. The above treatments were administered once a day for 15 consecutive days. The Morris water maze and arterial spin labeling MRI were used to assess spatial learning and memory in behavior and CBF respectively. Results: Compared with the AD group, both MA and donepezil significantly decreased the escape latency (p < 0.01), while also elevating platform crossover number and the percentage of time and swimming distance in the platform quadrant (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). The remarkable improvement in escape latency in the MA group appeared earlier than the M group, and no significant statistical significance was observed between the N and MA group with the exception of days 5 and 10. The CBF in the prefrontal lobe and hippocampus in the MA group was substantially higher than in the AD group (p < 0.05) with the exception of the right prefrontal lobe, with similar effects of donepezil. Conclusion: Manual acupuncture can effectively improve the spatial learning, relearning and memory abilities of SAMP8 mice. The increase in CBF in the prefrontal lobe and hippocampus could be an important mechanism for the beneficial cognitive effects of MA in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Jiang
- School of Nursing, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Anping Xu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yinshan Tang
- Department of Rehabilitation in Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kim H, Kim HK, Kim SY, Kim YI, Yoo HR, Jung IC. Cognitive improvement effects of electro-acupuncture for the treatment of MCI compared with Western medications: a systematic review and Meta-analysis. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 19:13. [PMID: 30621676 PMCID: PMC6325879 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2407-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost half of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients progress to dementia, which is associated with decreased quality of life and obstacles to independent living. Relevant management is expected to prevent MCI patients from progressing to dementia. In recent years, electroacupuncture (EA) has been used to treat various kinds of neurological disorders including MCI. This study evaluates the use of EA for MCI patients to increase cognitive function through a comparison with Western medications. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCT) or systematical reviews (SR) of EA versus Western medications for MCI were searched using the following 10 databases: Pubmed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), National Digital Science Library (NDSL), Journal of Oriental Neuropsychiatry (JON), Korean Medical Database (KMBASE), KoreaMed, and OASIS, from October 2007 to August 2017, without language restriction. A methodological quality assessment of RCTs or SRs that met inclusion criteria was conducted using Cochrane Risk of bias (RoB) tool and a meta-analysis by RevMan (Review Manager) 5.3.5 version of Cochrane collaboration. RESULTS Five RCTs with 257 patients met inclusion criteria and those were randomly divided into two groups: the EA group (n = 103) and Western medications group (n = 154). The methodological quality of the included studies showed high risk or/and unclear of risk of bias. The meta-analysis of five studies reported that the EA group was better than the Western medications group, improving the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score by 0.65 [95% CI 0.28~1.01] higher mean difference, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score by 0.66 [95% CI 0.00~1.32] higher mean difference. Adverse effects were not reported in the selected studies. CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture was an effective treatment for MCI patients by improving cognitive function. However, the included studies presented a low methodological quality and no adverse effects were reported. Thus, further comprehensive studies with a design in depth are needed to derive significant results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwan Kim
- Department of Oriental Neuropsychiatry, College of Korean Medicine, College of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon University, Yongun-dong, Dong-gu, Daejeon, South Korea
- Clinical Trial Center, Dunsan Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hong Kyoung Kim
- Clinical Trial Center, Dunsan Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, College of Oriental Medicine, DaeJeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Si Yeon Kim
- Clinical Trial Center, Dunsan Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Young Il Kim
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, College of Oriental Medicine, DaeJeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ho Ryong Yoo
- Department of Circulatory Internal Medicine, College of Oriental Medicine, DaeJeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - In Chul Jung
- Department of Oriental Neuropsychiatry, College of Korean Medicine, College of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon University, Yongun-dong, Dong-gu, Daejeon, South Korea
- Clinical Trial Center, Dunsan Korean Medicine Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
|
27
|
Synaptic Plasticity of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiating into Neuron-like Cells In Vitro Induced by Edaravone. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:5304279. [PMID: 30510585 PMCID: PMC6230402 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5304279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) are characterized with the potential ability to differentiate to several types of cells. Edaravone has been demonstrated to prevent the hUMSCs from the oxidative damage, especially its ability in antioxidative stress. We hypothesized that Edaravone induces the hUMSCs into the neuron-like cells. Methods The hUMSCs were obtained from the human umbilical cord tissue. The differentiation of hUMSCs was induced by Edaravone with three different doses: 0.65 mg/ml, 1.31 mg/ml, and 2.62 mg/ml. Flow cytometry was used to detect the cell markers. Protein and mRNA levels of nestin, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were detected by Western blot and RT-PCR. The expression of synaptophysin (SYN), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43), and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) was detected by Real-Time PCR. Results As long as the prolongation of the culture, the hUMSCs displayed with the long strips or long fusiform to fat and then characterized with the radial helix growth. By using flow cytometry, the cultured hUMSCs at the 3rd, 5th, and 10th passages were expressed with CD73, CD90, and CD105 but not CD11b, CD19, CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR. Most of the hUMSCs cultured with Edaravone exhibited typical nerve-immediately characters including the cell body contraction, increased refraction, and protruding one or more elongated protrusions, which were not found in the control group without addition of Edaravone. NSE, nestin, and GFAP were positive in these neuron-like cells. Edaravone dose-dependently increased expression levels of NSE, nestin, and GFAP. After replacement of maintenance fluid, neuron-like cells continued to be cultured for five days. These neuron-like cells were positive for SYN, PSD95, and GAP43. Conclusion Edaravone can dose-dependently induce hUMSCs to differentiate into neuron-like cells that expressed the neuronal markers including NSE, nestin, and GFAP and synaptic makers such as SYN, PSD95, and GAP43.
Collapse
|
28
|
Yang Q, Zhu S, Xu J, Tang C, Wu K, Wu Y, Wang Y, Sheng H. Effect of the electro-acupuncture on senile plaques and its formation in APP +/PS1 + double transgenic mice. Genes Dis 2018; 6:282-289. [PMID: 32042867 PMCID: PMC6997572 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and its incidence will increase with age and is aggravating. The senile plaques (SPs) are one of three main pathological features in AD patients, which are formed by amyloid β-protein (Aβ) over-accumulation. β-amyloid precursor protein (APP), β-site APP cleavage (BACE1), and insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) proteins participate in the process of Aβ production and degradation. At present, the pathogenesis of AD is not yet clear and the current treatment methods can only relief the related symptoms of AD. The electro-acupuncture (EA) is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment combined the acupuncture and electrical stimulation and the treatment effect can also be controlled by transform the electrical frequency. Thus, in this experiment, we carried out behavioral test, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Western Blot (WB) after different period treatments to the model mice by electro-acupuncturing “Baihui” and “Shenshu” acupoints in APP+/PS1+ double transgenic mice. It was found that the EA therapy can improve the ability of learning, memory and spatial exploration, and reduce the deposition of SPs in brain of AD model mice, and reduce the expressions of APP and BACE1, increase the expression of IDE protein. These results prompt that EA can effectively alleviate the pathological process of AD. We speculate that EA may play a comprehensive role in preventing the development of AD, considering the previous data.
Collapse
Key Words
- AD, Alzheimer's disease
- APP, β-
- Ach, aetylcholine
- AchE, cholinesterase
- Alzheimer's disease
- Amyloid β-protein
- Aβ, amyloid β-protein
- ChAT, aetylcholine tansferase
- EA, electro-acupuncture
- Electro-acupuncture
- IDE, insulin degrading enzyme
- IHC, immunohistochemistry
- SOD, superoxide dismutase
- SPs, senile plaques
- Senile plaques
- Transgenic mice
- amyloid precursor protein, BACE1
- β-, site APP cleavage
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Yang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shujuan Zhu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chenglin Tang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kaihui Wu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanjun Wu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yiying Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huajun Sheng
- Institute of Neuroscience, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tiaolipiwei Acupuncture Reduces Albuminuria by Alleviating Podocyte Lesions in a Rat Model of Diabetic Nephropathy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:1913691. [PMID: 29849693 PMCID: PMC5937557 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1913691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background Diabetic nephropathy is a common and serious complication of diabetes and a major cause of end-stage renal disease. Tiaolipiwei acupuncture is a safe treatment approach that may be effective for lowering albuminuria in diabetic nephropathy. Yet, the exact mechanisms of this therapeutic effect are unclear. Methods A rodent model of type 2 diabetic nephropathy (T2DN) was induced by a high-fat diet combined with low-dose streptozotocin. T2DN rats were treated with Tiaolipiwei acupuncture (ACU) for 4, 8, or 12 weeks. At the end of treatment, urinary and blood samples were collected for analysis. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe morphological changes, and protein expression levels of nephrin, CD2AP, podocalyxin, and desmin were quantified in renal tissue. Results Compared to the T2DN groups, the T2DN + ACU groups showed significant improvements in 24-hour urinary protein, serum urea, cholesterol, and triglycerides at all time points. ACU treatment also improved the density of slit diaphragms. Simultaneously, ACU promoted the renal expression of nephrin, CD2AP, and podocalyxin and decreased the expression of desmin. Conclusion Our study suggests that Tiaolipiwei acupuncture ameliorates podocyte lesions to reduce albuminuria and prevent the progression of T2DN in a rat model.
Collapse
|
30
|
Effects of CREB1 gene silencing on cognitive dysfunction by mediating PKA-CREB signaling pathway in mice with vascular dementia. Mol Med 2018; 24:18. [PMID: 30134805 PMCID: PMC6016877 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-018-0020-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As a form of dementia primarily affecting the elderly, vascular dementia (VD) is characterized by changes in the supply of blood to the brain, resulting in cognitive impairment. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects involved with cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-binding (CREB)1 gene silencing on cognitive dysfunction through meditation of the protein kinase A (PKA)-CREB signaling pathway in mice with VD. Methods Both the Morris water maze test and the step down test were applied to assess the cognitive function of the mice with VD. Immunohistochemical and TUNEL staining techniques were employed to evaluate the positive expression rates of the protein CREB1 and Cleaved Caspase-3, as well as neuronal apoptosis among hippocampal tissues in a respective manner. Flow cytometry was applied to determine the proliferation index and apoptosis rate of the hippocampal cells among each group. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis methods were applied to detect the expressions of cAMP, PKA and CREB in hippocampal cells. Results Compared with the normal group, all the other groups exhibited impaired cognitive function, reduced cell numbers in the CAI area, positive expressions of CREB1 as well as positive optical density (OD) values. Furthermore, increased Cleaved Caspase-3 positive expression, OD value, proliferation index, apoptosis rate of hippocampal cells and neurons, were observed in the other groups when compared with the normal group, as well as lower expressions of cAMP, PKA and CREB1 and p-CREB1 (the shCREB1–1, H89 and shCREB1–1 + H89 groups < the VD group). Conclusion The key findings of the present study demonstrated that CREB1 gene silencing results in aggravated VD that occurs as a result of inhibiting the PKA-CREB signaling pathway, thus exasperating cognitive dysfunction.
Collapse
|
31
|
Cai W, Shen WD. Anti-Apoptotic Mechanisms of Acupuncture in Neurological Diseases: A Review. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2018; 46:515-535. [PMID: 29595076 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x1850026x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis, known as programmed cell death, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases. Most of these diseases can be obviously alleviated by means of acupuncture treatment. Current research studies have shown that the efficacy of acupuncture to these medical conditions is closely associated with the anti-apoptotic potentials. Mainly based on the acupuncture's anti-apoptotic efficacy in prevalent neurological disorders, including cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, Alzheimer's disease, depression or stress related-modes, spinal cord injuries, etc., this review comes to a conclusion that the anti-apoptotic effect of acupuncture treatment for neurological diseases, evidently reflected through Bcl-2, Bax or caspase expression change, results from regulating mitochondrial or autophagic dysfunction as well as reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. The possible mechanisms of acupuncture's anti-apoptotic effect are associated with a series of downstream signaling pathways and the up-regulated expression of neurotrophic factors. It is of great importance to illuminate the exact mechanisms of acupuncture treatment for neurological dysfunctions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wa Cai
- 1 Department of Acupuncture, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Dong Shen
- 1 Department of Acupuncture, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang B, Dai XH, Yu XP, Zou W, Teng W, Sun XW, Yu WW, Liu H, Wang H, Sun MJ, Li M. Baihui (DU20)-penetrating- Qubin (GB7) acupuncture inhibits apoptosis in the perihemorrhagic penumbra. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:1602-1608. [PMID: 30127121 PMCID: PMC6126129 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.237123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Baihui (DU20)-penetrating-Qubin (GB7) acupuncture can inhibit inflammatory reactions and activate signaling pathways related to proliferation after intracerebral hemorrhage. However, there is no research showing the relationship between this treatment and cell apoptosis. Rat models of intracerebral hemorrhage were established by injecting 60 μL of autologous blood into the right side of the caudate-putamen. Six hours later, the needle traveled subcutaneously from the Baihui acupoint to Qubin acupoint. The needle was alternately rotated (180 ± 10 turns/min) manually along clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. Stimulation lasted for 7 days, and was performed three times each for 6 minutes with 6-minute intervals between stimulations. Rats intraperitoneally receiving Sonic hedgehog pathway activator, purmorphamine (1 mg/kg per day), served as positive controls. Motor and sensory function were assessed using the Ludmila Belayev test. Extent of pathological changes were measured in the perihemorrhagic penumbra using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Apoptosis was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay. Expression of smoothened (Smo) and glioma-associated homolog 1 (Gli1) was determined by western blot assay. Our results showed that Baihui-penetrating-Qubin acupuncture promoted recovery of motor and sensory function, reduced the apoptotic cell percentage in the perihemorrhagic penumbra, and up-regulated Smo and Gli1 expression. We conclude that Baihui-penetrating-Qubin acupuncture can mitigate hemorrhage and promote functional recovery of the brain in a rat model of intracerebral hemorrhage, possibly by activating the Sonic hedgehog pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beng Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine; First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Dai
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xue-Ping Yu
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Wei Zou
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine; Clinical Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Wei Teng
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Sun
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Wei-Wei Yu
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Meng-Juan Sun
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Meng Li
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Luo D, Chen R, Liang FX. Modulation of Acupuncture on Cell Apoptosis and Autophagy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2017; 2017:8268736. [PMID: 29279719 PMCID: PMC5723958 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8268736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture has been historically practiced to treat medical disorders by mechanically stimulating specific acupoints. Despite its well-documented efficacy, its biological basis largely remains elusive. Recent studies suggested that cell apoptosis and autophagy might play key roles in acupuncture therapy. Therefore, we searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), aiming to find the potential relationship between acupuncture and cell apoptosis and autophagy. To provide readers with objective evidence, some problems regarding the design method, acupoints selection, acupuncture intervention measure, and related diseases existing in 40 related researches were shown in this review. These findings demonstrated that acupuncture has a potential role in modulating cell apoptosis and autophagy in animal models, suggesting it as a candidate mechanism in acupuncture therapy to maintain physiologic homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Luo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Street, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Street, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Feng-xia Liang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1 Tanhualin Street, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Effects of Acupuncture on Alzheimer's Disease in Animal-Based Research. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:6512520. [PMID: 29234418 PMCID: PMC5635287 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6512520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and severe functional deficits in the brain. The pathogenesis and treatment of AD remain topics of investigation and significant global socioeconomic issues. The effect of complementary medicine has been investigated in managing AD. Acupuncture, a form of therapy practiced for more than 3000 years, has shown positive effects on several neurological disorders including AD. Animal studies have evaluated the specific utility and neuropathological mechanisms addressed by acupoint manipulation; however, no study has summarized the relationships among different acupoints and their therapeutic effects in the context of AD. Therefore, we reviewed the effects of acupuncture at different acupoints in animal models of AD. In general, acupuncture produced therapeutic benefits in rodent models of AD. Studies demonstrate the utility of GV20 as a valuable acupoint for electroacupuncture and manual acupuncture. GV20 stimulation suppresses Aβ generation, improves glucose metabolism, and attenuates neuropathological features in various disease models. However, a lack of sufficient evidence in preclinical and clinical studies makes these results controversial. Additional studies are required to confirm the exact utility of specific acupoints in clinically managing AD.
Collapse
|
35
|
Electroacupuncture alleviates surgery-induced cognitive dysfunction by increasing α7-nAChR expression and inhibiting inflammatory pathway in aged rats. Neurosci Lett 2017; 659:1-6. [PMID: 28842280 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.08.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common disorder of cognitive functions in aged patients following anesthesia and surgery. α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7-nAChR) plays a regulatory role in cognitive processes and is involved in cognitive deficits. This study aims to observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the cognitive function in aged POCD rats, and its regulation on expressions of hippocampal α7-nAChR and proinflammatory factors. Ninety healthy Sprague-Dawley male aged rats were randomly divided into three groups (each n=30): control group (sham operation), model group (partial hepatectomy), and electroacupuncture (EA) group. The cognitive function was detected by Morris water-maze test, and the changes of hippocampal expressions of α7-nAChR, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were detected by immunohistochemical method. Our results showed that compared with the model group, the EA group had significantly shorter escape latency and decreased crossing platform times at 1d, 3d and 7d after operation (P<0.05). α7-nAChR positive neurons in the hippocampus decreased and TNF-α and IL-1β positive neurons increased on postoperative days 1, 3 and 7. Compared with the model group, the α7-nAChR positive neurons were increased and TNF-α and IL-1β positive neurons were decreased in the EA group at the same time points (P<0.05). In conclusion, the electroacupuncture regulation can improve the learning and memory abilities in POCD rats, and its mechanism may be related to upregulation of α7-nAChR and downregulation of TNF-α and IL-1β in hippocampus.
Collapse
|
36
|
Effects of Combined Far-Infrared Radiation and Acupuncture at ST36 on Peripheral Blood Perfusion and Autonomic Activities. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:1947315. [PMID: 28883882 PMCID: PMC5572608 DOI: 10.1155/2017/1947315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Using four-channel photoplethysmography (PPG) for acquiring peripheral arterial waveforms, this study investigated vascular and autonomic impacts of combined acupuncture-far infrared radiation (FIR) in improving peripheral circulation. Twenty healthy young adults aged 25.5 ± 4.6 were enrolled for 30-minute measurement. Each subject underwent four treatment strategies, including acupuncture at ST36 (Zusanli), pseudoacupuncture, FIR, and combined acupuncture-FIR at different time points. Response was assessed at 5-minute intervals. Area under arterial waveform at baseline was defined as AreaBaseline, whereas AreaStim referred to area at each 5-minute substage during and after treatment. AreaStim/AreaBaseline was compared at different stages and among different strategies. Autonomic activity at different stages was assessed using low-to-high frequency power ratio (LHR). The results demonstrated increased perfusion for each therapeutic strategy from stage 1 to stage 2 (all p < 0.02). Elevated perfusion was noted for all treatment strategies at stage 3 compared to stage 1 except pseudoacupuncture. Increased LHR was noted only in subjects undergoing pseudoacupuncture at stage 3 compared to stage 1 (p = 0.045). Reduced LHR at stage 2 compared to stage 1 was found only in combined treatment group (p = 0.041). In conclusion, the results support clinical benefits of combined acupuncture-FIR treatment in enhancing peripheral perfusion and parasympathetic activity.
Collapse
|
37
|
Huang KY, Liang S, Yu ML, Fu SP, Chen X, Lu SF. A systematic review and meta-analysis of acupuncture for improving learning and memory ability in animals. Altern Ther Health Med 2016; 16:297. [PMID: 27543143 PMCID: PMC4992193 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1298-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Memory loss is the most prominent symptoms of brain aging, but there is currently no evidence-based treatment strategy. Acupuncture has been widely used in China and the effectiveness for improving learning and memory has been mentioned in previous studies. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture for improving learning and memory in animal experiments. Methods We searched Pubmed, Embase, Ovid Medline(R), the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP) and Wanfang data Information Site to collect studies published up to December 2015. Study quality for each included article was evaluated according to the CAMARADES 10-item checklist. Outcome measure is Morris water maze. A meta-analysis was conducted according to the Cochrane systematic review method by using RevMan 5.3 software. Results Forty-two studies involving 944 animals were included. The quality score of the studies ranged from 2 to 8, with a mean of 5.3. Meta-analysis results showed that 24 studies reported significant effect of acupuncture for decreasing escape latency (−3.00, 95 % CI: −3.78 ~ −2.23, P < 0.00001), 14 studies reported significant effect of acupuncture for increasing frequency of cross platform (2.57, 95 % CI: 1.92 ~ 3.22, P < 0.00001), and 7 studies reported significant effect of acupuncture for increasing time in target quadrant (2.00, 95 % CI: 1.10 ~ 2.91, P < 0.00001) compared with the control group. Conclusions These findings show acupuncture has a potential role in improving learning and memory ability in animal models, suggesting it as a candidate therapy for memory loss of aged brain.
Collapse
|
38
|
The Emerging Therapeutic Role of NGF in Alzheimer’s Disease. Neurochem Res 2016; 41:1211-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-016-1829-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|