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Zhao W, Liu SL, Lin SS, Zhang Y, Yu C. Astrocytic P2X7 receptor in retrosplenial cortex drives electroacupuncture analgesia. Purinergic Signal 2024:10.1007/s11302-024-10043-w. [PMID: 39222236 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-024-10043-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) has been found to contribute to the peripheral mechanism of acupuncture analgesia (AA). However, whether it plays an important role in central mechanism remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to reveal the role of astrocytic P2X7R in retrosplenial cortex (RSC) in AA and provide new evidence for underlying the central mechanism of AA. We applied the chemogenetic receptors hM3Dq to stimulate or hM4Di to inhibit astrocytes ligand clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) following injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV) into the bilateral RSC, or pharmacologically intervened in the activity of the purinergic receptor P2X7R. Current data indicated that chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes or injection of P2X7R agonist Bz-ATP in the bilateral RSC significantly reverses the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) in formalin tests while the bilateral injection of the P2X7R antagonist A438079 alleviated formalin-induced nociceptive behavior. Additionally, chemogenetic suppression of astrocytic P2X7R by injection of AAV in the bilateral RSC decreased hind paw flinches induced by formalin in the mice. These findings indicate the participation of both astrocytes and P2X7R in the RSC in EA analgesic. Moreover, P2X7R on astrocytes in the RSC appears to play a critical role in the ability of EA to attenuate formalin-induced pain responses in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Si-Le Liu
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Si-Si Lin
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Health and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
| | - Chang Yu
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
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2
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Yin L, Liu W, Zhang Z, Zhang J, Chen H, Xiong L. Hyperbaric Oxygen Attenuates Chronic Postsurgical Pain by Regulating the CD73/Adenosine/A1R Axis of the Spinal Cord in Rats. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2024:104623. [PMID: 39002742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2024.104623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) affects postoperative rehabilitation and quality of life in patients, but its mechanisms are still poorly understood. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) attenuates neuropathic pain in animal and human studies, but its efficacy for CPSP treatment and its underlying mechanism have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the analgesic effect of HBO in a CPSP rat model and the role of spinal cord adenosine circulation in HBO-induced analgesia. A skin/muscle incision and retraction (SMIR) rat model was used to mimic CPSP, and HBO treatment (2.5 atmospheric absolute, 60 minutes) was administered once daily for 5 consecutive days beginning 3 days after surgery. The role of spinal cord adenosine circulation in HBO-induced analgesia was investigated using β-methylene ADP (a CD73 inhibitor), 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (an A1R antagonist), or an intrathecal injection of adenosine. The mechanical paw withdrawal threshold was determined at different timepoints before and after surgery. The spinal cord adenosine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) contents were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography, and the spinal cord expression of adenosine-1 receptor (A1R), extracellular 5'-nucleotidase (CD73), and adenosine kinase (ADK) was examined by Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. The results showed that the mechanical paw withdrawal threshold of the ipsilateral hind paw and the adenosine content decreased, and the spinal cord expression of A1R, CD73, and ADK and ATP content increased within 14 days after surgery. HBO treatment alleviated mechanical allodynia, reduced ATP content, and increased adenosine content by activating CD73 but downregulated the spinal cord expression of A1R, CD73, and ADK. Intrathecal adenosine alleviated mechanical allodynia after SMIR and downregulated the spinal cord expression of A1R and CD73, and intrathecal β-methylene ADP or 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine attenuated the analgesic effect of HBO treatment on SMIR-induced CPSP. PERSPECTIVE: Spinal cord adenosine is involved in the occurrence and development of CPSP, and HBO treatment alleviates CPSP by regulating adenosine production/metabolism in the spinal cord. Thus, HBO may be employed for the treatment of CPSP with favorable efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Yin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Women and Children's Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo City, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenwu Liu
- Department of Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine, Chinese People's Liberation Army Naval Medical Center, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingyue Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lize Xiong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative medicine, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
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Ye Q, Li J, Ren WJ, Zhang Y, Wang T, Rubini P, Yin HY, Illes P, Tang Y. Astrocyte activation in hindlimb somatosensory cortex contributes to electroacupuncture analgesia in acid-induced pain. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1348038. [PMID: 38633538 PMCID: PMC11021577 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1348038] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have confirmed the direct relationship between extracellular acidification and the occurrence of pain. As an effective pain management approach, the mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment of acidification-induced pain is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to assess the analgesic effect of EA in this type of pain and to explore the underlying mechanism(s). Methods We used plantar injection of the acidified phosphate-buffered saline (PBS; pH 6.0) to trigger thermal hyperalgesia in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats aged 6-8 weeks. The value of thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) was quantified after applying EA stimulation to the ST36 acupoint and/or chemogenetic control of astrocytes in the hindlimb somatosensory cortex. Results Both EA and chemogenetic astrocyte activation suppressed the acid-induced thermal hyperalgesia in the rat paw, whereas inhibition of astrocyte activation did not influence the hyperalgesia. At the same time, EA-induced analgesia was blocked by chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes. Conclusion The present results suggest that EA-activated astrocytes in the hindlimb somatosensory cortex exert an analgesic effect on acid-induced pain, although these astrocytes might only moderately regulate acid-induced pain in the absence of EA. Our results imply a novel mode of action of astrocytes involved in EA analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Ye
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Li
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen-Jing Ren
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Patrizia Rubini
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hai-Yan Yin
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Peter Illes
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Yong Tang
- International Joint Research Centre on Purinergic Signalling, School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Acupuncture and Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, School of Health and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Huo M, Zhang Q, Si Y, Zhang Y, Chang H, Zhou M, Zhang D, Fang Y. The role of purinergic signaling in acupuncture-mediated relief of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Purinergic Signal 2024:10.1007/s11302-024-09985-y. [PMID: 38305986 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-024-09985-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is a traditional medicinal practice in China that has been increasingly recognized in other countries in recent decades. Notably, several reports have demonstrated that acupuncture can effectively aid in pain management. However, the analgesic mechanisms through which acupuncture provides such benefits remain poorly understood. Purinergic signaling, which is mediated by purine nucleotides and purinergic receptors, has been proposed to play a central role in acupuncture analgesia. On the one hand, acupuncture affects the transmission of nociception by increasing adenosine triphosphate dephosphorylation and thereby decreasing downstream P2X3, P2X4, and P2X7 receptors signaling activity, regulating the levels of inflammatory factors, neurotrophic factors, and synapsin I. On the other hand, acupuncture exerts analgesic effects by promoting the production of adenosine, enhancing the expression of downstream adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, and regulating downstream inflammatory factors or synaptic plasticity. Together, this systematic overview of the field provides a sound, evidence-based foundation for future research focused on the application of acupuncture as a means of relieving pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Huo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxiang Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Si
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Youlin Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongen Chang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Zhou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Engineering of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
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5
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Zhou M, Zhang Q, Huo M, Song H, Chang H, Cao J, Fang Y, Zhang D. The mechanistic basis for the effects of electroacupuncture on neuropathic pain within the central nervous system. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 161:114516. [PMID: 36921535 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nociceptive signaling responses to painful stimuli are transmitted to the central nervous system (CNS) from the afferent nerves of the periphery through a series of neurotransmitters and associated signaling mechanisms. Electroacupuncture (EA) is a pain management strategy that is widely used, with clinical evidence suggesting that a frequency of 2-10 Hz is better able to suppress neuropathic pain in comparison to higher frequencies such as 100 Hz. While EA is widely recognized as a viable approach to alleviating neuralgia, the mechanistic basis underlying such analgesic activity remains poorly understood. The present review offers an overview of current research pertaining to the mechanisms whereby EA can alleviate neuropathic pain in the CNS, with a particular focus on the serotonin/norepinephrine, endogenous opioid, endogenous cannabinoid, amino acid neurotransmitter, and purinergic pathways. Moreover, the corresponding neurotransmitters, neuromodulatory compounds, neuropeptides, and associated receptors that shape these responses are discussed. Together, this review seeks to provide a robust foundation for further studies of the EA-mediated alleviation of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Zhou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Qingxiang Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Mingzhu Huo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Huijun Song
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Hongen Chang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Jiaojiao Cao
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China.
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Engineering of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China.
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6
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Zhou M, Wu J, Chang H, Fang Y, Zhang D, Guo Y. Adenosine signaling mediate pain transmission in the central nervous system. Purinergic Signal 2023; 19:245-254. [PMID: 35000074 PMCID: PMC9984632 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common clinical symptom that seriously affects the quality of life in a variety of patient populations. In recent years, research on the role of adenosine signaling in pain modulation has made great progress. Adenosine is a purine nucleoside and a neuromodulator, and regulates multiple physiological and pathophysiological functions through the activation of four G protein-coupled receptors, which are classified as A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs). Adenosine and its receptors that are widespread in the central nervous system (CNS) play an important role in the processing of nociceptive sensory signals in different pain models. A1Rs have the highest affinity to adenosine, and the role in analgesia has been well investigated. The roles of A2ARs and A2BRs in the modulation of pain are controversial because they have both analgesic and pronociceptive effects. The analgesic effects of A3Rs are primarily manifested in neuropathic pain. In this article, we have reviewed the recent studies on ARs in the modulation of neuropathic pain, inflammatory pain, postoperative pain, and visceral pain in the CNS. Furthermore, we have outlined the pathways through which ARs contribute to pain regulation, thereby shedding light on how this mechanism can be targeted to provide effective pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Zhou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinrong Wu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongen Chang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Fang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Engineering of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, College of Acumox and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China. .,College of Chinese Medical, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Chen Y, Li D, Li N, Loh P, Guo Y, Hu X, Zhang J, Dou B, Wang L, Yang C, Guo T, Chen S, Liu Z, Chen B, Chen Z. Role of nerve signal transduction and neuroimmune crosstalk in mediating the analgesic effects of acupuncture for neuropathic pain. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1093849. [PMID: 36756246 PMCID: PMC9899820 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1093849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurogenic pain rises because of nervous system damage or dysfunction and is the most difficult to treat among other pathological pains. Acupuncture has been reported as a great treatment option for neurogenic pain owing to its unlimited advantages. However, previous studies on the analgesic effects of acupuncture for NP were scattered and did not form a whole. In this study, we first comprehensively review the relevant basic articles on acupuncture for NP published in the last 5 years and summarize the analgesic mechanisms of acupuncture in terms of nerve signaling, neuro-immune crosstalk, and metabolic and oxidative stress regulation. Acupuncture inhibits the upstream excitatory system and suppresses neuronal transmission efficiency by downregulating glutamate, NMDA receptors, P2XR, SP, CGRP, and other neurotransmitters and receptors in the spinal cord, as well as plasma channels such as TRPV1, HCN. It can also activate the downstream pain inhibitory pathway by upregulating opioid peptide (β-endorphin), MOR receptors, GABA and GABA receptors, bi-directional regulating 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and its receptors (upregulate 5-HT 1A and downregulate 5-HT7R) and stimulating hypothalamic appetite-modifying neurons. Moreover, neuroinflammation in pain can be inhibited by acupuncture through inhibiting JAK2/STAT3, PI3K/mTOR pathways, down regulating chemokine receptor CX3CR1 on microglia and up regulating adenosine receptor A1Rs on astrocytes, inhibiting the activation of glia and reducing TNF-α and other inflammatory substances. Acupuncture also inhibits neuronal glucose metabolism by downregulating mPFC's GLUT-3 and promotes metabolic alterations of the brain, thus exerting an analgesic effect. In conclusion, the regulation of nerve signal transduction and neuroimmune crosstalk at the peripheral and central levels mediates the analgesic effects of acupuncture for neuropathic pain in an integrated manner. These findings provide a reliable basis for better clinical application of acupuncture in the management of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Dan Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ningcen Li
- Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - PeiYong Loh
- School of International Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiyou Hu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingyu Zhang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Lifen Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Chaobo Yang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuangli Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,*Correspondence: Zelin Chen ✉
| | - Zelin Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China,Bo Chen ✉
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8
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Matesanz-García L, Schmid AB, Cáceres-Pajuelo JE, Cuenca-Martínez F, Arribas-Romano A, González-Zamorano Y, Goicoechea-García C, Fernández-Carnero J. Effect of Physiotherapeutic Interventions on Biomarkers of Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Literature. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 23:1833-1855. [PMID: 35768044 PMCID: PMC7613788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of physiotherapeutic interventions on biomarkers of neuropathic pain in preclinical models of peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP). The search was performed in Pubmed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane, Cinhal, Psycinfo, Scopus, Medline, and Science Direct. Studies evaluating any type of physiotherapy intervention for PNP (systemic or traumatic) were included. Eighty-one articles were included in this review. The most common PNP model was chronic constriction injury, and the most frequently studied biomarkers were related to neuro-immune processes. Exercise therapy and Electro-acupuncture were the 2 most frequently studied physiotherapy interventions while acupuncture and joint mobilization were less frequently examined. Most physiotherapeutic interventions modulated the expression of biomarkers related to neuropathic pain. Whereas the results seem promising; they have to be considered with caution due to the high risk of bias of included studies and high heterogeneity of the type and anatomical localization of biomarkers reported. The review protocol is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42019142878). PERSPECTIVE: This article presents the current evidence about physiotherapeutic interventions on biomarkers of neuropathic pain in preclinical models of peripheral neuropathic pain. Existing findings are reviewed, and relevant data are provided on the effectiveness of each physiotherapeutic modality, as well as its certainty of evidence and clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Matesanz-García
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Departamento de Fisioterapia, Centro Superior de Estudios Universitarios La Salle, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Annina B Schmid
- Nuffield Department for Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ferran Cuenca-Martínez
- Exercise Intervention for Health Research Group (EXINH-RG), Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Alberto Arribas-Romano
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yeray González-Zamorano
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Grupo de Investigación de Neurorrehabilitación del Daño Cerebral y los Trastornos del Movimiento (GINDAT), Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Josué Fernández-Carnero
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain; Grupo de Investigación de Neurorrehabilitación del Daño Cerebral y los Trastornos del Movimiento (GINDAT), Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain; Motion in Brains Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience and Sciences of the Movement (INCIMOV), Centro Superior de Estudios Universitarios La Salle, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor, Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander, Madrid, Spain; La Paz Hospital Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
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9
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Chen Y, Liu Y, Song Y, Zhao S, Li B, Sun J, Liu L. Therapeutic applications and potential mechanisms of acupuncture in migraine: A literature review and perspectives. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1022455. [PMID: 36340786 PMCID: PMC9630645 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1022455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is commonly used as a treatment for migraines. Animal studies have suggested that acupuncture can decrease neuropeptides, immune cells, and proinflammatory and excitatory neurotransmitters, which are associated with the pathogenesis of neuroinflammation. In addition, acupuncture participates in the development of peripheral and central sensitization through modulation of the release of neuronal-sensitization-related mediators (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, glutamate), endocannabinoid system, and serotonin system activation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that acupuncture may be a beneficial migraine treatment, particularly in decreasing pain intensity, duration, emotional comorbidity, and days of acute medication intake. However, specific clinical effectiveness has not been substantiated, and the mechanisms underlying its efficacy remain obscure. With the development of biomedical and neuroimaging techniques, the neural mechanism of acupuncture in migraine has gained increasing attention. Neuroimaging studies have indicated that acupuncture may alter the abnormal functional activity and connectivity of the descending pain modulatory system, default mode network, thalamus, frontal-parietal network, occipital-temporal network, and cerebellum. Acupuncture may reduce neuroinflammation, regulate peripheral and central sensitization, and normalize abnormal brain activity, thereby preventing pain signal transmission. To summarize the effects and neural mechanisms of acupuncture in migraine, we performed a systematic review of literature about migraine and acupuncture. We summarized the characteristics of current clinical studies, including the types of participants, study designs, and clinical outcomes. The published findings from basic neuroimaging studies support the hypothesis that acupuncture alters abnormal neuroplasticity and brain activity. The benefits of acupuncture require further investigation through basic and clinical studies.
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Ma X, Chen W, Yang NN, Wang L, Hao XW, Tan CX, Li HP, Liu CZ. Potential mechanisms of acupuncture for neuropathic pain based on somatosensory system. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:940343. [PMID: 36203799 PMCID: PMC9530146 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.940343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain, caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory system, is common and distressing. In view of the high human and economic burden, more effective treatment strategies were urgently needed. Acupuncture has been increasingly used as an adjuvant or complementary therapy for neuropathic pain. Although the therapeutic effects of acupuncture have been demonstrated in various high-quality randomized controlled trials, there is significant heterogeneity in the underlying mechanisms. This review aimed to summarize the potential mechanisms of acupuncture on neuropathic pain based on the somatosensory system, and guided for future both foundational and clinical studies. Here, we argued that acupuncture may have the potential to inhibit neuronal activity caused by neuropathic pain, through reducing the activation of pain-related ion channels and suppressing glial cells (including microglia and astrocytes) to release inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, amongst others. Meanwhile, acupuncture as a non-pharmacologic treatment, may have potential to activate descending pain control system via increasing the level of spinal or brain 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and opioid peptides. And the types of endogenously opioid peptides was influenced by electroacupuncture-frequency. The cumulative evidence demonstrated that acupuncture provided an alternative or adjunctive therapy for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ma
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Chen
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Na-Na Yang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Wan Hao
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Xia Tan
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Ping Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Hong-Ping Li,
| | - Cun-Zhi Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Cun-Zhi Liu,
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Combined-Acupoint Electroacupuncture Induces Better Analgesia via Activating the Endocannabinoid System in the Spinal Cord. Neural Plast 2022; 2022:7670629. [PMID: 36160326 PMCID: PMC9499800 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7670629] [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: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroacupuncture (EA) therapy has been widely reported to alleviate neuropathic pain with few side effects in both clinical practice and animal studies worldwide. However, little is known about the comparison of the therapeutic efficacy among the diverse EA schemes used for neuropathic pain. The present study is aimed at investigating the therapeutic efficacy discrepancy between the single and combined-acupoint EA and to reveal the difference of mechanisms behind them. Electroacupuncture was given at both Zusanli (ST36) and Huantiao (GB30) in the combined group or ST36 alone in the single group. Paw withdrawal mechanical threshold (PWMT) was measured to determine the pain level. Electrophysiology was performed to detect the effects of EA on synaptic transmission in the spinal dorsal horn of the vGlut2-tdTomato mice. Spinal contents of endogenous opioids, endocannabinoids, and their receptors were examined. Inhibitors of CBR (cannabinoid receptor) and opioid receptors were used to study the roles of opioid and endocannabinoid system (ECS) in EA analgesia. We found that combined-acupoint acupuncture provide stronger analgesia than the single group did, and the former inhibited the synaptic transmission at the spinal level to a greater extent than later. Besides, the high-intensity stimulation at ST36 or normal stimulation at two sham acupoints did not mimic the similar efficacy of analgesia in the combined group. Acupuncture stimulation in single and combined groups both activated the endogenous opioid system. The ECS was only activated in the combined group. Naloxone totally blocked the analgesic effect of single-acupoint EA; however, it did not attenuate that of combined-acupoint EA unless coadministered with CBR antagonists. Hence, in the CCI-induced neuropathic pain model, combined-acupoint EA at ST36 and GB30 is more effective in analgesia than the single-acupoint EA at ST36. EA stimulation at GB30 alone neither provided a superior analgesic effect to EA treatment at ST36 nor altered the content of AEA, 2-AG, CB1 receptor, or CB2 receptor compared with the CCI group. Activation of the ECS is the main contributor of the better analgesia by the combined acupoint stimulation than that induced by single acupoint stimulation.
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12
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Jiang K, Sun Y, Chen X. Mechanism Underlying Acupuncture Therapy in Spinal Cord Injury: A Narrative Overview of Preclinical Studies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875103. [PMID: 35462893 PMCID: PMC9021644 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results from various pathogenic factors that destroy the normal structure and function of the spinal cord, subsequently causing sensory, motor, and autonomic nerve dysfunction. SCI is one of the most common causes of disability and death globally. It leads to severe physical and mental injury to patients and causes a substantial economic burden on families and the society. The pathological changes and underlying mechanisms within SCI involve oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, etc. As a traditional therapy, acupuncture has a positive effect promoting the recovery of SCI. Acupuncture-induced neuroprotection includes several mechanisms such as reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting the inflammatory response and neuronal apoptosis, alleviating glial scar formation, promoting neural stem cell differentiation, and improving microcirculation within the injured area. Therefore, the recent studies exploring the mechanism of acupuncture therapy in SCI will help provide a theoretical basis for applying acupuncture and seeking a better treatment target and acupuncture approach for SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunpeng Jiang
- Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
| | - Yulin Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
| | - Xinle Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
- *Correspondence: Xinle Chen,
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13
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Abstract
Extracellular nucleosides and nucleotides have widespread functions in responding to physiological stress. The "purinome" encompasses 4 G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) for adenosine, 8 GPCRs activated by nucleotides, 7 adenosine 5'-triphosphate-gated P2X ion channels, as well as the associated enzymes and transporters that regulate native agonist levels. Purinergic signaling modulators, such as receptor agonists and antagonists, have potential for treating chronic pain. Adenosine and its analogues potently suppress nociception in preclinical models by activating A1 and/or A3 adenosine receptors (ARs), but safely harnessing this pathway to clinically treat pain has not been achieved. Both A2AAR agonists and antagonists are efficacious in pain models. Highly selective A3AR agonists offer a novel approach to treat chronic pain. We have explored the structure activity relationship of nucleoside derivatives at this subtype using a computational structure-based approach. Novel A3AR agonists for pain control containing a bicyclic ring system (bicyclo [3.1.0] hexane) in place of ribose were designed and screened using an in vivo phenotypic model, which reflected both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. High specificity (>10,000-fold selective for A3AR) was achieved with the aid of receptor homology models based on related GPCR structures. These A3AR agonists are well tolerated in vivo and highly efficacious in models of chronic neuropathic pain. Furthermore, signaling molecules acting at P2X3, P2X4, P2X7, and P2Y12Rs play critical roles in maladaptive pain neuroplasticity, and their antagonists reduce chronic or inflammatory pain, and, therefore, purine receptor modulation is a promising approach for future pain therapeutics. Structurally novel antagonists for these nucleotide receptors were discovered recently.
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Du J, Fang J, Xiang X, Yu J, Le X, Liang Y, Jin X, Fang J. Effects of low- and high-frequency electroacupuncture on protein expression and distribution of TRPV1 and P2X3 in rats with peripheral nerve injury. Acupunct Med 2020; 39:478-490. [PMID: 33334124 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420968845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation at different frequencies has a similar effect on spared nerve injury (SNI) as other neuropathic pain models, and how EA at different frequencies causes distinct analgesic effects on neuropathic pain is still not clear. METHODS Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham SNI, SNI, 2 Hz, 100 Hz and sham EA groups. Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were measured. EA was performed once a day on days 1 to 14 after SNI. The expressions of transient receptor potential cation subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and peripheral purinergic P2X receptor 3 (P2X3) were determined by western blotting and immunofluorescence. TRPV1 siRNA and P2X3 siRNA were administered by intrathecal injection. TRPV1 or P2X3 agonists were combined with EA. RESULTS There were significant decreases in PWT, but no changes in PWL in the 14 days after SNI. EA using 2- or 100-Hz stimulation similarly increased PWT at every time point. The cytosol protein expression of P2X3 in the L4-L6 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) increased, but the expression of TRPV1 decreased in the SNI model. Both these effects were ameliorated by EA, with 2-Hz stimulation having a stronger effect than 100-Hz stimulation. Blocking either TRPV1 or P2X3 specific siRNAs attenuated the decreased PWT induced by SNI. Administration of either a TRPV1 or P2X3 agonist inhibited EA analgesia. CONCLUSION 2- and 100-Hz EA similarly induced analgesic effects in SNI. This effect was related to up-regulation and down-regulation, respectively, of cytosol protein expression of P2X3 and TRPV1 in L4-L6 DRG, with 2 Hz having a better effect than 100 Hz.
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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, 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, 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, China
| | - Jie Yu
- 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, China
| | - Xiaoqin Le
- 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, China
| | - Yi Liang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoming Jin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - 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, China
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Shaw S, Uniyal A, Gadepalli A, Tiwari V, Belinskaia DA, Shestakova NN, Venugopala KN, Deb PK, Tiwari V. Adenosine receptor signalling: Probing the potential pathways for the ministration of neuropathic pain. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 889:173619. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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16
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Targeting Adenosine Receptors: A Potential Pharmacological Avenue for Acute and Chronic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228710. [PMID: 33218074 PMCID: PMC7698931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine is a purine nucleoside, responsible for the regulation of multiple physiological and pathological cellular and tissue functions by activation of four G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), namely A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs). In recent years, extensive progress has been made to elucidate the role of adenosine in pain regulation. Most of the antinociceptive effects of adenosine are dependent upon A1AR activation located at peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal sites. The role of A2AAR and A2BAR is more controversial since their activation has both pro- and anti-nociceptive effects. A3AR agonists are emerging as promising candidates for neuropathic pain. Although their therapeutic potential has been demonstrated in diverse preclinical studies, no AR ligands have so far reached the market. To date, novel pharmacological approaches such as adenosine regulating agents and allosteric modulators have been proposed to improve efficacy and limit side effects enhancing the effect of endogenous adenosine. This review aims to provide an overview of the therapeutic potential of ligands interacting with ARs and the adenosinergic system for the treatment of acute and chronic pain.
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Tribute to Prof. Geoffrey Burnstock: his contribution to acupuncture. Purinergic Signal 2020; 17:71-77. [PMID: 33034832 PMCID: PMC7954886 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-020-09729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Chen T, Zhang WW, Chu YX, Wang YQ. Acupuncture for Pain Management: Molecular Mechanisms of Action. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2020; 48:793-811. [DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x20500408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture reduces pain by activating specific areas called acupoints on the patient’s body. When these acupoints are fully activated, sensations of soreness, numbness, fullness, or heaviness called De qi or Te qi are felt by clinicians and patients. There are two kinds of acupuncture, manual acupuncture and electroacupuncture (EA). Compared with non-acupoints, acupoints are easily activated on the basis of their special composition of blood vessels, mast cells, and nerve fibers that mediate the acupuncture signals. In the spinal cord, EA can inhibit glial cell activation by down-regulating the chemokine CX3CL1 and increasing the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10. This inhibits P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathways, which are associated with microglial activation of the C-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling pathway and subsequent astrocyte activation. The inactivation of spinal microglia and astrocytes mediates the immediate and long-term analgesic effects of EA, respectively. A variety of pain-related substances released by glial cells such as the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor [Formula: see text], interleukin-1[Formula: see text], interleukin-6, and prostaglandins such as prostaglandins E2 can also be reduced. The descending pain modulation system in the brain, including the anterior cingulated cortex, the periaqueductal gray, and the rostral ventromedial medulla, plays an important role in EA analgesia. Multiple transmitters and modulators, including endogenous opioids, cholecystokinin octapeptide, 5-hydroxytryptamine, glutamate, noradrenalin, dopamine, [Formula: see text]-aminobutyric acid, acetylcholine, and orexin A, are involved in acupuncture analgesia. Finally, the “Acupuncture [Formula: see text]” strategy is introduced to help clinicians achieve better analgesic effects, and a newly reported acupuncture method called acupoint catgut embedding, which injects sutures made of absorbable materials at acupoints to achieve long-term effects, is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Chen
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Institutes of Integrative Medicine School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Wen Wen Zhang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Institutes of Integrative Medicine School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Xia Chu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Institutes of Integrative Medicine School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Qing Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, Institutes of Integrative Medicine School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University Shanghai, P. R. China
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19
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Javad-Moosavi BZ, Nasehi M, Vaseghi S, Jamaldini SH, Zarrindast MR. Activation and Inactivation of Nicotinic Receptnors in the Dorsal Hippocampal Region Restored Negative Effects of Total (TSD) and REM Sleep Deprivation (RSD) on Memory Acquisition, Locomotor Activity and Pain Perception. Neuroscience 2020; 433:200-211. [PMID: 32200080 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sleep deprivation (SD) is a common issue in today's society. Sleep is essential for proper cognitive functions, including learning and memory. Furthermore, sleep disorders can alter pain information processing. Meanwhile, hippocampal nicotinic receptors have a role in modulating pain and memory. The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of dorsal hippocampal (CA1) nicotinic receptors on behavioral changes induced by Total (TSD) and REM Sleep Deprivation (RSD). A modified water box and multi-platform apparatus were used to induce TSD and RSD, respectively. To investigate the interaction between nicotinic receptors and hippocampus-dependent memory, nicotinic receptor agonist (nicotine) or antagonist (mecamylamine) was injected into the CA1 region. The results showed, nicotine at the doses of 0.001 and 0.1 µg/rat and mecamylamine at the doses of 0.01 and 0.1 µg/rat decreased memory acquisition, while both at the doses of 0.01 and 0.1 µg/rat enhanced locomotor activity. Additionally, all doses used for both drugs did not alter pain perception. Also, 24 h TSD or RSD attenuated memory acquisition with no effect on locomotor activity and only TSD induced an analgesic effect. Intra-CA1 administration of subthreshold dose of nicotine (0.0001 µg/rat) and mecamylamine (0.001 µg/rat) did not alter memory acquisition, pain perception and locomotor activity in sham of TSD/RSD rats. Both drugs reversed all behavioral changes induced by TSD. Furthermore, both drugs reversed the effect of RSD on memory acquisition, while only mecamylamine reversed the effect of RSD on locomotor activity. In conclusion, CA1 nicotinic receptors play a significant role in TSD/RSD-induced behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Salar Vaseghi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hamid Jamaldini
- Department of Genetic, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroendocrinology, Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran
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20
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Dai QX, Huang LP, Mo YC, Yu LN, Du WW, Zhang AQ, Geng WJ, Wang JL, Yan M. Role of spinal adenosine A1 receptors in the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture in a rat model of neuropathic pain. J Int Med Res 2019; 48:300060519883748. [PMID: 31868057 PMCID: PMC7783270 DOI: 10.1177/0300060519883748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the role of spinal adenosine A1 receptors (A1Rs) in the analgesic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) for neuropathic pain. METHODS We performed EA for 30 minutes at the zusanli acupoint in the legs of rats with previously induced chronic constriction injuries and observed the mechanical and thermal pain thresholds 1 hour later. We also examined adenosine levels by high-performance liquid chromatography and A1R expression in the L4-6 spinal cord by western blot analysis. We then injected A1R short interfering RNA (AV-shA1RNA) into the L4-6 spinal cord to downregulate A1R expression and re-examined the mechanical and thermal pain thresholds. RESULTS Adenosine levels and A1R expression in the L4-6 spinal cord were increased at 1 hour after EA. In addition, EA exhibited an analgesic effect that was reversed by AV-shA1RNA. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that EA at the zusanli acupoint elicits an analgesic effect against neuropathic pain, mediated by A1Rs in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin-Xue Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hang Zhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - Lu-Ping Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - Yun-Chang Mo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - Li-Na Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hang Zhou, China
| | - Wen-Wen Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - An-Qi Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - Wu-Jun Geng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - Jun-Lu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wen Zhou Medical University, Wen Zhou, China
| | - Min Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hang Zhou, China
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