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Sun J, Zhang C, Wang Y, Xiao S, Sun H, Bian Z, Shen Z, He X, Fang J, Shao X. Electroacupuncture Alleviates Hyperalgesia and Anxiety-Like Behaviors in Pain Memory Model Rats Through Activation of GABAergic Neurons and GABA Receptor in the Rostral Anterior Cingulate Cortex. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:6613-6627. [PMID: 38329679 PMCID: PMC11338974 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03986-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have confirmed that pain memory is often accompanied by negative emotions. Electroacupuncture (EA) can block the retrieval of painful memories, thereby alleviating the associated negative behaviors. However, the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. This study revealed that the effect of EA on pain memory-induced negative behaviors is related to the mediation of GABAergic neuron activity and GABA receptor expression in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC). Previous studies have shown that the rACC is a crucial area for regulating nociceptive behaviors and negative emotions in pain memory models. The GABAergic neurons and receptors in the rACC are largely involved in pain sensation and related effects. However, the relationships among pain memory, GABAergic neurons and receptors in the rACC have not been investigated. In this study, we established a pain memory model via secondary plantar cross-injection of carrageenan and EA treatment. Using chemogenetic methods and behavioral assessments of pain and negative emotion, we found that early excitation of GABAergic neurons in the rACC blocked the recall of pain memories and reduced anxiety-like behaviors in pain memory model rats. Furthermore, pharmacological methods revealed that excitation of GABAA and GABAB receptors in the rACC blocks hyperpathia associated with pain memory and pain-induced anxiety-like behaviors, while inhibition of GABAA and GABAB receptors reverses these effects. These results suggest that EA may alleviate pain and associated anxiety-like behaviors related to pain memories through the activation of GABAergic neurons and excitation of GABAA and GABAB receptors in the rACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Siqi Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiju Sun
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyuan Bian
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zui Shen
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofen He
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
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Li X, Zhu Y, Sun H, Shen Z, Sun J, Xiao S, He X, Liu B, Wang Y, Hu Y, Liu B, Liang Y, Jiang Y, Du J, Xu C, Fang J, Shao X. Electroacupuncture Inhibits Pain Memory and Related Anxiety-Like Behaviors by Blockading the GABA B Receptor Function in the Midcingulate Cortex. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6613-6626. [PMID: 37468738 PMCID: PMC10533721 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Pain memory is commonly considered an underlying cause of chronic pain and is also responsible for a range of anxiety. Electroacupuncture (EA) has been shown to ameliorate pain memories and exert anti-anxiety effects. Previous research has indicated that GABAergic neurons and/or GABA receptors (GABARs) in the midcingulate cortex (MCC) have potential associations with chronic pain and anxiety. However, there is no known empirical research that has specifically studied the effects of EA on the GABAergic system in the MCC. Here, we used cross-injection of carrageenan to establish the pain memory rats model. Immunofluorescence were used to detect the excitability of GABAergic neurons within MCC. Von Frey filament, elevated zero maze, and open field tests were used to measure mechanical allodynia and anxiety-like behaviors, combined with chemogenetic and pharmacologic technologies. Finally, this study provides evidence that pain memories contribute to generalized negative emotions and that downregulating the activity of GABAergic neurons within MCC could block pain memories and reverse anxiety emotion. Specifically, GABABR is involved in pain memory and related anxiety-like behaviors. Activation of GABAergic neurons in the MCC did not reverse the effects of EA on pain memories and related anxiety-like behaviors, whereas these effects could be reversed by a GABABR agonist. These findings highlight the functional significance of GABABR in the EA-mediated attenuation of pain memories and related anxiety-like behaviors in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Li
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yichen Zhu
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haiju Sun
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zui Shen
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Sun
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Siqi Xiao
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaofen He
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Boyu Liu
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yifang Wang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuxin Hu
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Boyi Liu
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Liang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongliang Jiang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junying Du
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chi Xu
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
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Ma C, Zou Y, Ye Y, Cao M, Yan X. Progress in the mechanism of acupuncture intervention on pain emotion and pain cognition mediated by limbic system. JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE AND TUINA SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11726-022-1351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPain is a complex physiological and psychological activity, involving at least three dimensions, including pain sensation, pain emotion, and pain cognition. Acupuncture can clearly relieve the pain sensation of patients and improve pain emotion and pain cognition induced by pain; acupuncture participates in the multi-dimensional regulation of pain through brain regions of the limbic system such as anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), amygdala (AMY), and hippocampus. By analyzing relevant literature, it has been found that the regulation of acupuncture on pain emotion is mainly related to the activation of pertinent opioid receptors in the ACC, the decrease of the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and the promotion of the expression of glutamic acid (Glu) A1, metabotropic glutamate receptor-1 (mGluR1), and γ-aminobutyric acid aminobutyric acid (GABA) B2 protein in the AMY. The regulation of acupuncture on pain cognition is mainly related to the elevation of the expression of protein kinase A (PKA) and phospho-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (phospho-p38 MAPK) and the inhibition of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/PKA/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway in the ACC.
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Zhu J, Wang C, Wang Y, Guo C, Lu P, Mou F, Shao S. Electroacupuncture alleviates anxiety and modulates amygdala CRH/CRHR1 signaling in single prolonged stress mice. Acupunct Med 2022; 40:369-378. [PMID: 35044840 DOI: 10.1177/09645284211056352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety-related psychiatric disorder, manifesting high comorbidity with anxiety disorders. Its underlying neurobiological mechanisms have been associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction and stress hormones. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a primary stress hormone, expressed in the hypothalamus and amygdala. Electroacupuncture (EA) can improve mood disorders, but its mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to observe the effect of EA on PTSD and explore the related mechanisms. METHODS We used single prolonged stress (SPS) mice to establish a PTSD model, and EA was performed after SPS or 7 days later for a week. Then we observed their fear and anxiety-like behavior through cue-induced fear condition tests, open field test and the elevated zero maze. CRH and CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1) protein levels in the amygdala were measured in SPS mice after EA intervention. RESULTS We found that EA at ST36 and GV20 improved fear and anxiety behavior in SPS mice. The amygdala CRH and CRHR1 protein levels increased in the SPS mice, and this effect was reversed by the EA intervention. CRHR1 inhibition by the CRHR1 antagonist NBI 27914 alleviated anxiety behavior in SPS mice. CONCLUSION CRH/CRHR1 signaling in the amygdala may contribute to the anxiolytic effect of EA in SPS mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Wang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Institutes of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunxia Guo
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Pingping Lu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangfang Mou
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuijin Shao
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Guo Q, Di Z, Tian HF, Zhang QA. Contralateral Acupuncture for the Treatment of Phantom Limb Pain and Phantom Limb Sensation in Oncologic Lower Limb Amputee: A Case Report. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:713548. [PMID: 34744604 PMCID: PMC8568952 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.713548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Phantom limb pain (PLP) and phantom limb sensation (PLS) are common and distressing sequelae of amputation. Current pain management following amputation is challenging and unsatisfying. In this case study, a 74-year-old woman underwent above-knee amputation because of the rhabdomyosarcoma in the right leg. Despite several analgesics, pain was poorly controlled. The phantom limb pain and sensation were immediately reduced by the contralateral acupuncture, and abolished after the third session with no side-effects, no relapse during the next 9 months. Contralateral acupuncture showed positive effect on PLP and PLS in this case, but more robust evidence would be needed to support the efficacy of this treatment technique for indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Guo
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Di
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Fang Tian
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Quan-Ai Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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Wang Y, Han J, Zhu J, Zhang M, Ju M, Du Y, Tian Z. GluN2A/ERK/CREB Signaling Pathway Involved in Electroacupuncture Regulating Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Hyperactivity. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:703044. [PMID: 34658758 PMCID: PMC8514998 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.703044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis caused by stress will inevitably disrupt the homeostasis of the neuroendocrine system and damage physiological functions. It has been demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) can modulate HPA axis hyperactivity during the perioperative period. As the initiating factor of the HPA axis, hypothalamic corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) is the critical molecule affected by EA. However, the mechanism by which EA reduces CRH synthesis and secretion remains unclear. Activated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has been linked to over-secretion of hypothalamic CRH induced by stress. To determine whether NMDAR is involved in EA regulating the over-expression of CRH, a surgical model of partial hepatectomy (HT) was established in our experiment. The effect of EA on hypothalamic NMDAR expression in HT mice was examined. Then, we investigated whether the extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK)/cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway mediated by NMDAR was involved in EA regulating HPA axis hyperactivity. It was found that surgery enhanced the expression of hypothalamic CRH and caused HPA axis hyperactivity. Intriguingly, EA effectively suppressed the expression of CRH and decreased the activation of GluN2A (NMDAR subunit), ERK, and CREB in HT mice. GluN2A, ERK, and CREB antagonists had similar effects on normalizing the expression of CRH and HPA axis function compared with EA. Our findings suggested that surgery enhanced the activation of the hypothalamic GluN2A/ERK/CREB signaling pathway, thus promoting the synthesis and secretion of CRH. EA suppressed the phosphorylation of GluN2A, ERK, and CREB in mice that had undergone surgery, indicating that the GluN2A/ERK/CREB signaling pathway was involved in EA alleviating HPA axis hyperactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Han
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mizhen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minda Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueshan Du
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhanzhuang Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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7
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Ahn YJ, Shin HJ, Jeong EA, An HS, Lee JY, Jang HM, Kim KE, Lee J, Shin MC, Roh GS. Exendin-4 Pretreatment Attenuates Kainic Acid-Induced Hippocampal Neuronal Death. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102527. [PMID: 34685508 PMCID: PMC8534217 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Exendin-4 (Ex-4) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist that protects against brain injury. However, little is known about the effect of Ex-4 on kainic acid (KA)-induced seizures and hippocampal cell death. Therefore, this study evaluated the neuroprotective effects of Ex-4 pretreatment in a mouse model of KA-induced seizures. Three days before KA treatment, mice were intraperitoneally injected with Ex-4. We found that Ex-4 pretreatment reversed KA-induced reduction of GLP-1R expression in the hippocampus and attenuated KA-induced seizure score, hippocampal neuronal death, and neuroinflammation. Ex-4 pretreatment also dramatically reduced hippocampal lipocalin-2 protein in KA-treated mice. Furthermore, immunohistochemical studies showed that Ex-4 pretreatment significantly alleviated blood–brain barrier leakage. Finally, Ex-4 pretreatment stimulated hippocampal expression of phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-binding protein (p-CREB), a known target of GLP-1/GLP-1R signaling. These findings indicate that Ex-4 pretreatment may protect against KA-induced neuronal damage by regulating GLP-1R/CREB-mediated signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jeong Ahn
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Hyun-Joo Shin
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Eun-Ae Jeong
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Hyeong-Seok An
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Jong-Youl Lee
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Hye-Min Jang
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Kyung-Eun Kim
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Jaewoong Lee
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Meong-Cheol Shin
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea;
| | - Gu-Seob Roh
- Bio Anti-Aging Medical Research Center, Department of Anatomy and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Korea; (Y.-J.A.); (H.-J.S.); (E.-A.J.); (H.-S.A.); (J.-Y.L.); (H.-M.J.); (K.-E.K.); (J.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-55-772-8035; Fax: +82-55-772-8039
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Guo Y, Liu FY, Shen Y, Xu JY, Xie LZ, Li SY, Ding DN, Zhang DQ, Han FJ. Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Dysmenorrhea Caused by Endometriosis: A Review of Utilization and Mechanism. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:6663602. [PMID: 34306150 PMCID: PMC8272670 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6663602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is a common and benign estrogen-dependent gynecological disorder among women of reproductive age, and secondary dysmenorrhea is one of the more severe symptoms. However, the mechanism behind the development of dysmenorrhea is poorly understood, and there is a lack of effective methods for diagnosing and treating EM dysmenorrhea. In this regard, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has recently come into widespread use due to its limited adverse reactions and high efficiency. This review updates the progress of CAM in the treatment of EM dysmenorrhea and seeks to identify the therapeutic efficacy as well as the mechanisms behind these effects based on the available clinical and experimental studies. According to the literature, CAM therapy for EM dysmenorrhea, including herbs (herbal prescriptions, extracts, and patents), acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine enema (CHM enema), is effective for relieving dysmenorrhea with fewer unpleasant side effects when compared to hormonal and surgical treatments. In addition, we discuss and analyze the existing gaps in the literature. We hope to provide some instructive suggestions for clinical treatment and experimental research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Fang-Yuan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jia-Yue Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Liang-Zhen Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Shi-Ying Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Dan-Ni Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Dan-Qi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Feng-Juan Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
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9
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Xiao X, Ding M, Zhang YQ. Role of the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Translational Pain Research. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:405-422. [PMID: 33566301 PMCID: PMC7954910 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00615-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most common symptomatic reason to seek medical consultation, pain is a complex experience that has been classified into different categories and stages. In pain processing, noxious stimuli may activate the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). But the function of ACC in the different pain conditions is not well discussed. In this review, we elaborate the commonalities and differences from accumulated evidence by a variety of pain assays for physiological pain and pathological pain including inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer pain in the ACC, and discuss the cellular receptors and signaling molecules from animal studies. We further summarize the ACC as a new central neuromodulation target for invasive and non-invasive stimulation techniques in clinical pain management. The comprehensive understanding of pain processing in the ACC may lead to bridging the gap in translational research between basic and clinical studies and to develop new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Ministry of Education; Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Ming Ding
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Ministry of Education; Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yu-Qiu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Brain Science; Institute of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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10
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Electroacupuncture Improves IBS Visceral Hypersensitivity by Inhibiting the Activation of Astrocytes in the Medial Thalamus and Anterior Cingulate Cortex. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:2562979. [PMID: 32617101 PMCID: PMC7306073 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2562979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective To explore whether the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on visceral hypersensitivity (VH) in rats with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is related to the changes of astrocyte activation in the medial thalamus (MT) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Method Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the normal control (NC) group, model control (MC) group, electroacupuncture (EA) group, and fluorocitrate (FCA) group. A model of visceral hypersensitivity was established by neonatal colorectal irritation. In the EA group, needles were inserted into the skin at the Tianshu (ST25) and Shangjuxu (ST37) acupoints, once a day for 7 days. The FCA group received intrathecal injection of FCA on the 1st, 4th, and 7th days. Visceral hypersensitivity was evaluated by the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) mRNA and protein levels in the MT and ACC were detected by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blots. Results The AWR score in the MC group was significantly higher than in the NC group, and EA and FCA reduced the AWR score of VH rats. GFAP mRNA and protein levels in the MT and ACC of rats in the MC group were significantly increased compared with the NC group. After either electroacupuncture or fluorocitrate, GFAP mRNA and protein levels in the MT and ACC were both clearly reduced. Conclusion Electroacupuncture alleviates IBS visceral hypersensitivity by inhibiting the activation of astrocytes in the MT and ACC.
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11
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Du J, Fang J, Xu Z, Xiang X, Wang S, Sun H, Shao X, Jiang Y, Liu B, Fang J. Electroacupuncture suppresses the pain and pain-related anxiety of chronic inflammation in rats by increasing the expression of the NPS/NPSR system in the ACC. Brain Res 2020; 1733:146719. [PMID: 32044336 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.146719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neuropeptide S/Neuropeptide S receptor (NPS/NPSR) system is involved in the regulation of anxiety in rodents. Chronic inflammation can induce anxiety. Our lab has observed that electroacupuncture (EA) has a beneficial effect on chronic inflammatory pain and pain-related anxiety; however, the mechanism should be further clarified. In the present study, we used an inflammatory pain model to investigate the role of the NPS/NPSR system in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in the analgesic and antianxiety effects of EA. RESULTS In an inflammatory pain model, the paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) were decreased, pain-related anxiety-like behaviors were induced, and the ipsilateral protein expression of NPS and NPSR was decreased in the ACC. EA stimulation increased the PWTs, reduced pain-related anxiety-like behavior, and enhanced the ipsilateral protein expression of NPS and NPSR in the ACC. NPS microinjection increased the PWTs and decreased pain-related anxiety-like behaviors. Furthermore, an NPSR inhibitor combined with EA reversed the effect of EA on the PWTs and pain-related anxiety-like behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that EA suppresses pain and pain-related anxiety-like behavior of chronic inflammation in rats by increasing the expression of the NPS/NPSR system in the ACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Du
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Junfan Fang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Zitong Xu
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xuaner Xiang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Sisi Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Haiju Sun
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yongliang Jiang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Boyi Liu
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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12
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Effects of Electroacupuncture on Pain Memory-Related Behaviors and Synchronous Neural Oscillations in the Rostral Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Freely Moving Rats. Neural Plast 2019; 2019:2057308. [PMID: 31223307 PMCID: PMC6541966 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2057308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies have confirmed that electroacupuncture (EA) can effectively intervene in pain memory, but the neural mechanism involved remains unclear. In this study, we observed the effects of EA in regulating pain memory-related behaviors and synchronous neural oscillations in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC). During nociceptive behavioral testing, pain memory induced a nonpain stimulus that spurred a neural oscillatory reaction similar to that caused by pain stimuli in the rACC. After EA, nonpain stimuli did not induce decreased neural oscillatory activity in the rACC until the presentation of pain stimuli. During aversive behavioral testing, EA, through the downregulation of theta power, inhibited the retrieval of aversive memory and relieved pain memory-induced aversive behaviors. These changes of oscillatory activity may be the hallmarks of EA therapy for pain memory.
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13
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Abstract
Pain has a strong emotional component and is defined by its unpleasantness. Chronic pain represents a complex disorder with anxio-depressive symptoms and cognitive deficits. Underlying mechanisms are still not well understood but an important role for interactions between prefrontal cortical areas and subcortical limbic structures has emerged. Evidence from preclinical studies in the rodent brain suggests that neuroplastic changes in prefrontal (anterior cingulate, prelimbic and infralimbic) cortical and subcortical (amygdala and nucleus accumbens) brain areas and their interactions (corticolimbic circuitry) contribute to the complexity and persistence of pain and may be predetermining factors as has been proposed in recent human neuroimaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX, United States; Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.
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14
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Inhibition of the cAMP/PKA/CREB Pathway Contributes to the Analgesic Effects of Electroacupuncture in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in a Rat Pain Memory Model. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:5320641. [PMID: 28090359 PMCID: PMC5206448 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5320641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain memory is considered as endopathic factor underlying stubborn chronic pain. Our previous study demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) can alleviate retrieval of pain memory. This study was designed to observe the different effects between EA and indomethacin (a kind of nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs) in a rat pain memory model. To explore the critical role of protein kinase A (PKA) in pain memory, a PKA inhibitor was microinjected into anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in model rats. We further investigated the roles of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), PKA, cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway in pain memory to explore the potential molecular mechanism. The results showed that EA alleviates the retrieval of pain memory while indomethacin failed. Intra-ACC microinjection of a PKA inhibitor blocked the occurrence of pain memory. EA reduced the activation of cAMP, PKA, and CREB and the coexpression levels of cAMP/PKA and PKA/CREB in the ACC of pain memory model rats, but indomethacin failed. The present findings identified a critical role of PKA in ACC in retrieval of pain memory. We propose that the proper mechanism of EA on pain memory is possibly due to the partial inhibition of cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway by EA.
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15
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Lin JG, Lee YC, Tseng CH, Chen DY, Shih CY, MacDonald I, Hung SY, Chen YH. Electroacupuncture inhibits pruritogen-induced spinal microglial activation in mice. Brain Res 2016; 1649:23-29. [PMID: 27396909 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined whether electroacupuncture (EA) represses pruritogen-induced microglial activation. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that a subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of the pruritogen 5'-guanidinonaltrindole (GNTI; 0.3mg/kg) to the back of the neck in mice induced acute expression of the ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) in both gray and white matter of the spinal cord, with the highest expression in the dorsal horn area. EA application (2Hz) to LI4 and LI11 attenuated GNTI-induced scratching behavior and repressed GNTI-induced Iba1 expression and Iba1 (+) microglia in the dorsal horn. In contrast, EA at the ST36 acupoint had no such effects. Confocal image analysis revealed co-expression of phosphorylated p38 and Iba1 in microglia with EA at the ST36 acupoint, but not at the LI4 or LI11 acupoints. In Western blot analysis, s.c. injection of GNTI to the back of the neck increased Iba1 and phospho-p38 expression in the spinal cord as compared with injection of saline, while EA at LI4 and LI11 reduced GNTI-induced expression of Iba1 and phospho-p38. These findings indicate that EA at LI4 and LI11, but not at ST36, reduces GNTI-induced microglial activation in the mouse spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaung-Geng Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hsin Tseng
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Dai-Yin Chen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Yun Shih
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Iona MacDonald
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ya Hung
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Division of Colorectal Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Department of Photonics and Communication Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan.
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