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Zheng Y, Li S, Kang Y, Hu Q, Zheng Y, Wang X, Chi H, Guo K, Jiang M, Wei Z, Shao X, Xu C, Liu B, Du J, He X, Fang J, Lu Z, Jiang Y. Electroacupuncture Alleviates Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Neuropathic Pain via the TRPV1-Mediated CaMKII/CREB Pathway in Rats. J Mol Neurosci 2024; 74:79. [PMID: 39162890 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-024-02256-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is a diabetic complication that causes severe pain and deeply impacts the quality of the sufferer's daily life. Currently, contemporary clinical treatments for DNP generally exhibit a deficiency in effectiveness. Electroacupuncture (EA) is recognized as a highly effective and safe treatment for DNP with few side effects. Regrettably, the processes via which EA alleviates DNP are still poorly characterized. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and phosphorylated calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (p-CaMKII) are overexpressed on spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH) in DNP rats, and co-localization is observed between them. Capsazepine, a TRPV1 antagonist, effectively reduced nociceptive hypersensitivity and downregulated the overexpression of phosphorylated CaMKIIα in rats with DNP. Conversely, the CaMKII inhibitor KN-93 did not have any impact on TRPV1. EA alleviated heightened sensitivity to pain caused by nociceptive stimuli and downregulated the level of TRPV1, p-CaMKIIα, and phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (p-CREB) in DNP rats. Intrathecal injection of capsaicin, on the other hand, reversed the above effects of EA. These findings indicated that the CaMKII/CREB pathway on SCDH is located downstream of TRPV1 and is affected by TRPV1. EA alleviates DNP through the TRPV1-mediated CaMKII/CREB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinmu Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Siyi Li
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yurong Kang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qunqi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiang Wang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hengyu Chi
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keying Guo
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Minjian Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhouyuan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chi Xu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Boyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junying Du
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofen He
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Yongliang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
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Chi H, Hu Q, Li X, Kang Y, Zheng Y, Jiang M, Xu X, Wang X, He X. Electroacupuncture alleviates diabetes-induced mechanical allodynia and downregulates bradykinin B1 receptor expression in spinal cord dorsal horn. Neuroreport 2024; 35:692-701. [PMID: 38874969 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000002059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is one of the most prevalent symptoms of diabetes. The alteration of proteins in the spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH) plays a significant role in the genesis and the development of DNP. Our previous study has shown electroacupuncture could effectively relieve DNP. However, the potential mechanism inducing DNP's genesis and development remains unclear and needs further research. METHODS This study established DNP model rats by intraperitoneally injecting a single high-dose streptozotocin; 2 Hz electroacupuncture was used to stimulate Zusanli (ST36) and Kunlun (BL60) of DNP rats daily from day 15 to day 21 after streptozotocin injection. Behavioral assay, quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and western blotting were used to study the analgesic mechanism of electroacupuncture. RESULTS The bradykinin B1 receptor (B1R) mRNA, nuclear factor-κB p65 (p65), substance P, and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) protein expression were significantly enhanced in SCDH of DNP rats. The paw withdrawal threshold was increased while body weight and fasting blood glucose did not change in DNP rats after the electroacupuncture treatment. The expression of B1R, p65, substance P, and CGRP in SCDH of DNP rats was also inhibited after the electroacupuncture treatment. CONCLUSION This work suggests that the potential mechanisms inducing the allodynia of DNP rats were possibly related to the increased expression of B1R, p65, substance P, and CGRP in SCDH. Downregulating B1R, p65, substance P, and CGRP expression levels in SCDH may achieve the analgesic effect of 2 Hz electroacupuncture treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengyu Chi
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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Wang J, Zhang Y, Wu Q, Bian Z, Luo N, Sun J, Yu B, Fang J. The efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302228. [PMID: 38662762 PMCID: PMC11045088 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus, which is the most common neuropathy worldwide. Owing to the inadequacies of existing treatment methods, managing DPN remains a significant challenge. Studies suggest that electroacupuncture (EA) could potentially serve as a beneficial alternative treatment for this condition. Nevertheless, there is still inadequate proof of its therapeutic effectiveness and safety. As a result, the goal of this protocol is to methodically compile the data pertaining to the effectiveness and security of EA in the management of DPN. METHODS To find appropriate randomized controlled trials (RCTs), nine reliable databases in the English and Chinese languages will be examined. RevMan5.3 will be used to combine the retrieved data and perform meta-analyses. The methodological quality of the included RCTs will be evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment 2.0 tool. The Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system will be utilized to evaluate the degree of strength and certainty of the evidence. We will also perform publication bias, sensitivity and subgroup analyses. DISCUSSION This protocol describes the intended scope and approach for a forthcoming systematic review and meta-analysis that will inform therapeutic decision-making by offering current information on the efficacy and safety of EA in the treatment of DPN. The results of the study will help standardize strategies for EA in the treatment of DPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Wang
- The Third Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yajun Zhang
- The Third Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiqi Wu
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Massage, Wenzhou Central Hospital, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhiyuan Bian
- The Third Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ning Luo
- The Third Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Binyan Yu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 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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Zhou L, Wu T, Zhong Z, Yi L, Li Y. Acupuncture for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1281485. [PMID: 38046594 PMCID: PMC10690617 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1281485] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (PDPN) is a common complication of diabetes, it severely affects the quality of life of patients. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of PDPN. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for pain relief in patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. Method We thoroughly searched specific databases, which included PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database and the Wanfang Data. All randomized controlled trials of acupuncture therapy for PDPN with pain change scales were included. Included studies were assessed for methodological quality according to the risk of bias from the Cochrane handbook. Meta-analyses were carried out to analyze the outcomes, subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses, and funnel plot analyses were undertaken. Results This systematic review evaluated a total of 25 trials of acupuncture therapy in combination with conventional treatment, involving a total of 1,561 patients with PDPN. According to the results, among 16 trials using VAS scores with a total of 1,552 patients, 2 acupoint injection trials (MD -2.38, 95% CI: -2.76 to -2.01, p < 0.00001), 12 acupuncture trials (MD -1. 31, 95% CI: -1.60 to -1.02, p < 0.00001) and 2 moxibustion trials showed that acupuncture therapy combined with conventional treatment improved pain better than conventional treatment (MD -2.50, 95% CI: -2.76 to -2.24, p < 0.00001). In the subgroup analysis of the acupuncture group, the results of the 5 trials in which the location of acupuncture was only in the limbs (MD -1.27, 95% CI: -1.54 to -1.01, p < 0.00001) and the 7 trials both in limbs and torso (MD -1.38, 95% CI: -1.81 to -0.95, p < 0.00001) also demonstrated that acupuncture was effective in pain improvement. Conclusion This meta-analysis analyzed the possible efficacy of acupuncture in combination with conventional treatment for pain in diabetic peripheral neuropathy, particularly when acupoints are located in the limbs. However, there are limitations to this meta-analysis and future clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023449447, identifier (CRD42023449447).
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Affiliation(s)
- Luolin Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tong Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhishan Zhong
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lichen Yi
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuemei Li
- Department of Rehabilitation, Guangzhou Eighth People’s Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Qu SY, Wang HZ, Hu QQ, Ma YQ, Kang YR, Ma LQ, Li X, Chen LH, Liu BY, Shao XM, Liu BY, Du JY, Liang Y, Zhao HL, Jiang YL, Fang JQ, He XF. Electroacupuncture may alleviate diabetic neuropathic pain by inhibiting the microglia P2X4R and neuroinflammation. Purinergic Signal 2023:10.1007/s11302-023-09972-9. [PMID: 37870716 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-023-09972-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is a common and destructive complication of diabetes mellitus. The discovery of effective therapeutic methods for DNP is vitally imperative because of the lack of effective treatments. Although 2 Hz electroacupuncture (EA) was a successful approach for relieving DNP, the mechanism underlying the effect of EA on DNP is still poorly understood. Here, we established a rat model of DNP that was induced by streptozotocin (STZ) injection. P2X4R was upregulated in the spinal cord after STZ-injection. The upregulation of P2X4R was mainly expressed on activated microglia. Intrathecal injection of a P2X4R antagonist or microglia inhibitor attenuated STZ-induced nociceptive thermal hyperalgesia and reduced the overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the spinal cord. We also assessed the effects of EA treatment on the pain hypersensitivities of DNP rats, and further investigated the possible mechanism underlying the analgesic effect of EA. EA relieved the hyperalgesia of DNP. In terms of mechanism, EA reduced the upregulation of P2X4R on activated microglia and decreased BDNF, IL-1β and TNF-α in the spinal cord. Mechanistic research of EA's analgesic impact would be beneficial in ensuring its prospective therapeutic effect on DNP as well as in extending EA's applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Ying Qu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Han-Zhi Wang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Qun-Qi Hu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Qi Ma
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu-Rong Kang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li-Qian Ma
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lu-Hang Chen
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo-Yu Liu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Shao
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo-Yi Liu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun-Ying Du
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Liang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong-Li Zhao
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Yong-Liang Jiang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jian-Qiao Fang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xiao-Fen He
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
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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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Ma YQ, Hu QQ, Kang YR, Ma LQ, Qu SY, Wang HZ, Zheng YM, Li SY, Shao XM, Li XY, Hu HT, Jiang YL, Fang JQ, He XF. Electroacupuncture Alleviates Diabetic Neuropathic Pain and Downregulates p-PKC and TRPV1 in Dorsal Root Ganglions and Spinal Cord Dorsal Horn. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2023; 2023:3333563. [PMID: 36777630 PMCID: PMC9918371 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3333563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is a common complication of diabetes. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced changes of protein in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH) are critical for DNP genesis. However, which proteins change remains elusive. Here, the DNP model was established by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ, accompanied by increased fasting blood glucose (FBG), decreased body weight (BW), and decreased paw withdrawal latency (PWL). Proteins change in L4-L6 DRGs and SCDH of rats were detected. Western blot and immunofluorescence results showed that expression levels of phosphorylated protein kinase C (p-PKC), transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1), Substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the DRG and the SCDH of rats were increased after STZ injection. A preliminary study from our previous study showed that 2 Hz electroacupuncture (EA) effectively alleviates DNP. However, the analgesic mechanism of EA needs further elucidation. Here, EA at the bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and KunLun (BL60) acupoints was applied for one week, and to investigate the effect on DNP. EA reversed thermal hyperalgesia in DNP rats and downregulated the expression of p-PKC, TRPV1, SP, and CGRP in DRG and SCDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-qi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Qun-qi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Yu rong Kang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Li-qian Ma
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Si-ying Qu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Han-zhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Yin-mu Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Si-yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Xiao-mei Shao
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Xiao-yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Han-tong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Yong-liang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Jian-qiao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Xiao-fen He
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
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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: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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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10
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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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11
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Zhang Y, Lin C, Yang Q, Wang Y, Zhao W, Li L, Ren X, Zhao J, Zang W, Cao J. Spinal Sirtuin 3 Contributes to Electroacupuncture Analgesia in Mice with Chronic Constriction Injury–Induced Neuropathic Pain. Neuromodulation 2022; 26:563-576. [PMID: 36030144 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroacupuncture (EA) is a traditional Chinese therapeutic technique that has a beneficial effect on neuropathic pain; however, the specific mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we investigated whether EA inhibits spinal Ca/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKIIα) phosphorylation through Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) protein, thus relieving neuropathic pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used wild-type and SIRT3 knockout (SIRT3-/-) mice and used chronic constriction injury (CCI) as a pain model. We performed Western blotting, immunostaining, von Frey, and Hargreaves tests to gather biochemical and behavioral data. Downregulation and overexpression and spinal SIRT3 protein were achieved by intraspinal injection of SIRT3 small interfering RNA and intraspinal injection of lentivirus-SIRT3. To test the hypothesis that CaMKIIα signaling was involved in the analgesic effects of EA, we expressed CaMKIIα-specific designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH) of mice. RESULTS These results showed that the mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia induced by CCI was related to the decreased spinal SIRT3 expression in the SDH of mice. A significant reduction of mechanical and thermal thresholds was found in the SIRT3-/- mice. SIRT3 overexpression or EA treatment alleviated CCI-induced neuropathic pain and prevented the spinal CaMKIIα phosphorylation. Most importantly, EA increased the expression of spinal SIRT3 protein in the SDH. Downregulation of spinal SIRT3 or CaMKIIα Gq-DREADD activation inhibited the regulatory effect of EA on neuropathic pain. CONCLUSION Our results showed that CaMKIIα phosphorylation was inhibited by spinal SIRT3 in neuropathic pain and that EA attenuated CCI-induced neuropathic pain mainly by upregulating spinal SIRT3 expression in the SDH of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Caihong Lin
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qingqing Yang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yuanzeng Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiuhua Ren
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jianyuan Zhao
- Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation of National Population and Family Planning Commission, and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weidong Zang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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12
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Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhao W, Li L, Li L, Sun Y, Shao J, Ren X, Zang W, Cao J. Role of spinal RIP3 in inflammatory pain and electroacupuncture-mediated analgesic effect in mice. Life Sci 2022; 306:120839. [PMID: 35902029 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Electroacupuncture (EA) is a potentially useful treatment for inflammatory pain. Receptor-interacting protein 3 (RIP3) triggers the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome; activation independent of necroptosis has been reported. However, the role of RIP3 in inflammatory pain and its EA-induced analgesic effects remains unclear. MAIN METHODS Mice were treated with EA (2 Hz, 2 mA) after complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) pain models were established. Inhibition or activation of spinal RIP3 was achieved by intrathecal administration of GSK-843 (a specific RIP3 inhibitor) or microinjection of lentivirus-RIP3, respectively. Mechanical analgesiometry and thermal analgesiometry were used to assess paw withdrawal threshold and paw withdrawal latency in mice. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to evaluate the expression of RIP3 and NLPR3 in spinal dorsal horn (SDH) of mice. KEY FINDINGS The expression of spinal RIP3 and NLPR3 increased significantly after CFA injection. Both intrathecal administration of GSK-843 and EA alleviated mechanical and thermal pain behaviors induced by CFA and inhibited the expression of RIP3 and NLRP3 in the SDH of CFA mice. Over-expression of RIP3 induces pain-like symptoms in mice and inhibits the regulatory effects of EA on inflammatory pain. SIGNIFICANCE Our results indicate that the EA analgesia effect may be related to suppression of RIP3 and NLRP3 expression in the SDH. This study could provide potential insights into the underlying spinal mechanisms involved in the analgesic effect of EA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Yuanzeng Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Luyao Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Yanyan Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Jinping Shao
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Xiuhua Ren
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Weidong Zang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China; Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China.
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13
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Hossain MJ, Kendig MD, Letton ME, Morris MJ, Arnold R. Peripheral Neuropathy Phenotyping in Rat Models of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Evaluating Uptake of the Neurodiab Guidelines and Identifying Future Directions. Diabetes Metab J 2022; 46:198-221. [PMID: 35385634 PMCID: PMC8987683 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2021.0347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) affects over half of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, with an urgent need for effective pharmacotherapies. While many rat and mouse models of T2DM exist, the phenotyping of DPN has been challenging with inconsistencies across laboratories. To better characterize DPN in rodents, a consensus guideline was published in 2014 to accelerate the translation of preclinical findings. Here we review DPN phenotyping in rat models of T2DM against the 'Neurodiab' criteria to identify uptake of the guidelines and discuss how DPN phenotypes differ between models and according to diabetes duration and sex. A search of PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases identified 125 studies, categorised as either diet and/or chemically induced models or transgenic/spontaneous models of T2DM. The use of diet and chemically induced T2DM models has exceeded that of transgenic models in recent years, and the introduction of the Neurodiab guidelines has not appreciably increased the number of studies assessing all key DPN endpoints. Combined high-fat diet and low dose streptozotocin rat models are the most frequently used and well characterised. Overall, we recommend adherence to Neurodiab guidelines for creating better animal models of DPN to accelerate translation and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jakir Hossain
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael D. Kendig
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Meg E. Letton
- Department of Exercise Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Margaret J. Morris
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ria Arnold
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Exercise Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Exercise and Rehabilitation, School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Science, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- Corresponding author: Ria Arnold https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7469-6587 Department of Exercise Physiology, School of Health Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia E-mail:
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14
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Liu C, Wang Z, Guo T, Zhuang L, Gao X. Effect of acupuncture on menopausal hot flushes and serum hormone levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acupunct Med 2021; 40:289-298. [PMID: 34894774 DOI: 10.1177/09645284211056655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for the treatment of hot flushes and its impact on serum hormone levels in menopausal women. METHODS A total of 10 databases were searched from their inception to August 2018. Reference lists of reviews and included articles were also hand-searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of acupuncture versus sham acupuncture, or acupuncture versus hormone therapy (HT), as treatment for menopausal hot flushes were included. Outcomes included hot flush frequency, hot flush severity and serum hormone levels of estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.3 software. RESULTS Thirteen RCTs including 1784 patients were selected, seven of which were available for meta-analysis. Compared with sham acupuncture, acupuncture significantly decreased hot flush frequency (mean difference (MD) -0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) [-1.64, -0.05], I2 = 54%) from baseline to the end of study, but did not impact end scores of hot flush frequency (MD 0.19, 95% CI [-0.61, 0.99], I2 = 0%) or severity (MD 0.02, 95% CI [-0.13, 0.17], I2 = 0%). No differences were found between acupuncture and HT in serum levels of E2 (MD 6.56, 95% CI [-3.77, 16.89], I2 = 76%), FSH (MD 1.06, 95% CI [-1.44, 3.56], I2 = 0%) or LH (MD -3.36, 95% CI [-13.37, 6.65], I2 = 89%). CONCLUSION Acupuncture may not decrease hot flush frequency, but yet appears to have similar effects on serum hormone levels as HT, that is, increased E2 and decreased FSH and LH. Considering that no firm conclusions could be drawn due to the low quality and limited number of included trials included, further high-quality RCTs need to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhijie Wang
- Shanxi Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ting Guo
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lixing Zhuang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Gao
- The Southern Harbin Hospital Affiliated to Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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15
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Liu Y, Du J, Fang J, Xiang X, Xu Y, Wang S, Sun H, Fang J. Electroacupuncture inhibits the interaction between peripheral TRPV1 and P2X3 in rats with different pathological pain. Physiol Res 2021; 70:635-647. [PMID: 34062076 PMCID: PMC8820540 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is regarded to be one of the common and refractory diseases to cure in the clinic. One hundred Hz electroacupuncture (EA) is commonly used for inflammatory pain and 2 Hz for neuropathic pain possibly by modulating the transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) or the purinergic P2X3 related pathways. To clarify the mechanism of EA under various conditions of pathological pain, rats received a subcutaneous administration of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) for inflammatory pain and spared nerve injury (SNI) for neuropathic pain. The EA was performed at the bilateral ST36 and BL60 1 d after CFA or SNI being successfully established for 3 consecutive days. The mechanical hyperalgesia test was measured at baseline, 1 d after model establishment, 1 d and 3 d after EA. The co-expression changes, co-immunoprecipitation of TRPV1 and P2X3, and spontaneous pain behaviors (SPB) test were performed 3 d after EA stimulation. One hundred Hz EA or 2Hz EA stimulation could effectively down-regulate the hyperalgesia of CFA or SNI rats. The increased co-expression ratio between TRPV1 and P2X3 at the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in two types of pain could be reduced by 100Hz or 2Hz EA intervention. While 100Hz or 2Hz EA was not able to eliminate the direct physical interaction between TRPV1 and P2X3. Moreover, EA could significantly inhibit the SPB induced by the co-activation of peripheral TRPV1 and P2X3. All results indicated that EA could significantly reduce the hyperalgesia and the SPB, which was partly related to inhibiting the co-expression and indirect interaction between peripheral TRPV1 and P2X3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun 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, China.
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16
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Fei X, He X, Tai Z, Wang H, Qu S, Chen L, Hu Q, Fang J, Jiang Y. Electroacupuncture alleviates diabetic neuropathic pain in rats by suppressing P2X3 receptor expression in dorsal root ganglia. Purinergic Signal 2020; 16:491-502. [PMID: 33011961 PMCID: PMC7855163 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-020-09728-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) is a troublesome diabetes complication all over the world. P2X3 receptor (P2X3R), a purinergic receptor from dorsal root ganglion (DRG), has important roles in neuropathic pain pathology and nociceptive sensations. Here, we investigated the involvement of DRG P2X3R and the effect of 2 Hz electroacupuncture (EA) on DNP. We monitored the rats' body weight, fasting blood glucose level, paw withdrawal thresholds, and paw withdrawal latency, and evaluated P2X3R expression in DRG. We found that P2X3R expression is upregulated on DNP, while 2 Hz EA is analgesic against DNP and suppresses P2X3R expression in DRG. To evaluate P2X3R involvement in pain modulation, we then treated the animals with A317491, a P2X3R specific antagonist, or α β-me ATP, a P2X3R agonist. We found that A317491 alleviates hyperalgesia, while α β-me ATP blocks EA's analgesic effects. Our findings indicated that 2 Hz EA alleviates DNP, possibly by suppressing P2X3R upregulation in DRG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyu Fei
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiaofen He
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Zhaoxia Tai
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Hanzhi Wang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Siying Qu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Luhang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Qunqi Hu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Yongliang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Electroacupuncture Modulates Spinal BDNF/TrκB Signaling Pathway and Ameliorates the Sensitization of Dorsal Horn WDR Neurons in Spared Nerve Injury Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186524. [PMID: 32906633 PMCID: PMC7555233 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is more complex and severely affects the quality of patients’ life. However, the therapeutic strategy for neuropathic pain in the clinic is still limited. Previously we have reported that electroacupuncture (EA) has an attenuating effect on neuropathic pain induced by spared nerve injury (SNI), but its potential mechanisms remain to be further elucidated. In this study, we designed to determine whether BDNF/TrκB signaling cascade in the spinal cord is involved in the inhibitory effect of 2 Hz EA on neuropathic pain in SNI rats. The paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) of rats was used to detect SNI-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. The expression of BDNF/TrκB cascade in the spinal cord was evaluated by qRT-PCR and Western blot assay. The C-fiber-evoked discharges of wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons in spinal dorsal horn were applied to indicate the noxious response of WDR neurons. The results showed that 2 Hz EA significantly down-regulated the levels of BDNF and TrκB mRNA and protein expression in the spinal cord of SNI rats, along with ameliorating mechanical hypersensitivity. In addition, intrathecal injection of 100 ng BDNF, not only inhibited the analgesic effect of 2 Hz EA on pain hypersensitivity, but also reversed the decrease of BDNF and TrκB expression induced by 2 Hz EA. Moreover, 2 Hz EA obviously reduced the increase of C-fiber-evoked discharges of dorsal horn WDR neurons by SNI, but exogenous BDNF (100 ng) effectively reversed the inhibitory effect of 2 Hz EA on SNI rats, resulting in a remarkable improvement of excitability of dorsal horn WDR neurons in SNI rats. Taken together, these data suggested that 2 Hz EA alleviates mechanical hypersensitivity by blocking the spinal BDNF/TrκB signaling pathway-mediated central sensitization in SNI rats. Therefore, targeting BDNF/TrκB cascade in the spinal cord may be a potential mechanism of EA against neuropathic pain.
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Du ER, Fan RP, Rong LL, Xie Z, Xu CS. Regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic potential of microglial inhibitors in neuropathic pain and morphine tolerance. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2020; 21:204-217. [PMID: 32133798 PMCID: PMC7086010 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1900425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are important cells involved in the regulation of neuropathic pain (NPP) and morphine tolerance. Information on their plasticity and polarity has been elucidated after determining their physiological structure, but there is still much to learn about the role of this type of cell in NPP and morphine tolerance. Microglia mediate multiple functions in health and disease by controlling damage in the central nervous system (CNS) and endogenous immune responses to disease. Microglial activation can result in altered opioid system activity, and NPP is characterized by resistance to morphine. Here we investigate the regulatory mechanisms of microglia and review the potential of microglial inhibitors for modulating NPP and morphine tolerance. Targeted inhibition of glial activation is a clinically promising approach to the treatment of NPP and the prevention of morphine tolerance. Finally, we suggest directions for future research on microglial inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-rong Du
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Rong-ping Fan
- Department of Fourth Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Li-lou Rong
- Department of Fourth Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Zhen Xie
- Department of First Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Chang-shui Xu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang 330006, China
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19
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Ni CM, Sun HP, Xu X, Ling BY, Jin H, Zhang YQ, Zhao ZQ, Cao H, Xu L. Spinal P2X7R contributes to streptozotocin-induced mechanical allodynia in mice. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2020; 21:155-165. [PMID: 32115912 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1900456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is a diabetes mellitus complication. Unfortunately, the mechanisms underlying PDN are still poorly understood. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-gated P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) plays a pivotal role in non-diabetic neuropathic pain, but little is known about its effects on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced peripheral neuropathy. Here, we explored whether spinal cord P2X7R was correlated with the generation of mechanical allodynia (MA) in STZ-induced type 1 diabetic neuropathy in mice. MA was assessed by measuring paw withdrawal thresholds and western blotting. Immunohistochemistry was applied to analyze the protein expression levels and localization of P2X7R. STZ-induced mice expressed increased P2X7R in the dorsal horn of the lumbar spinal cord during MA. Mice injected intrathecally with a selective antagonist of P2X7R and P2X7R knockout (KO) mice both presented attenuated progression of MA. Double-immunofluorescent labeling demonstrated that P2X7R-positive cells were mostly co-expressed with Iba1 (a microglia marker). Our results suggest that P2X7R plays an important role in the development of MA and could be used as a cellular target for treating PDN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Ming Ni
- Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China
| | - He-Ping Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Kunshan First People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Kunshan 215300, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China
| | - Bing-Yu Ling
- Department of Emergency, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Hui Jin
- Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China
| | - Yu-Qiu Zhang
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhi-Qi Zhao
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hong Cao
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lan Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China
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Electroacupuncture Stimulation Alleviates CFA-Induced Inflammatory Pain Via Suppressing P2X3 Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20133248. [PMID: 31269659 PMCID: PMC6651287 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory pain is one of the most common complaints that seriously affects patients’ quality of life. Previous studies have demonstrated that the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation on inflammatory pain is related to its frequency. In this study, we focused on whether the analgesic effects of EA are related to the period of stimulation. Purinergic receptor P2X3 (P2X3) is involved in the pathological process underlying chronic inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain. We hypothesized that 100 Hz EA stimulation alleviated Freund’s complete adjuvant (CFA) induced inflammatory pain via regulating P2X3 expression in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and/or spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH). We also assumed that the analgesic effect of EA might be related to the period of stimulation. We found that both short-term (three day) and long-term (14 day) 100 Hz EA stimulation effectively increased the paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and reversed the elevation of P2X3 in the DRG and SCDH of CFA rats. However, the analgesic effects of 100 Hz EA were not dependent on the period of stimulation. Moreover, P2X3 inhibition or activation may contribute to or attenuate the analgesic effects of 100 Hz EA on CFA-induced inflammatory pain. This result indicated that EA reduced pain hypersensitivity through P2X3 modulation.
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21
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Low-Frequency Electroacupuncture Alleviates Chronic Constrictive Injury-Induced Mechanical Allodynia by Inhibiting NR2B Upregulation in Ipsilateral Spinal Dorsal Horn in Rats. Chin J Integr Med 2018; 25:462-467. [PMID: 30467696 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-018-3057-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) in chronic constrictive injury (CCI) rat model and the expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor type 2B (NR2B) in ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn in rats to explore the analgesic mechanisms of EA. METHODS According to the random number table, totally 180 rats were evenly divided into a sham group, a CCI group, and an EA group. CCI model was conducted with four 4-0 chromic gut ligatures loosely ligated around the left sciatic nerve 1 cm above the trifurcation. Rats in the EA group received 2 Hz EA therapy bilaterally at acupoints of Zusanli (ST 36) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) once daily (30 min/d) for 30 days after surgery. Paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) were measured on 0 (baseline), 1, 3, 7, 15, 30 days after surgery. Rats were sacrificed on 0, 1, 3, 7, 15 and 30 days after surgery, and the L4-5 segments of spinal cord were removed to detect the expression of NR2B by immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS PWTs in the CCI group were significantly lower than the sham group at Day 1-30 after surgery, and reached its lowest at Day 1 (P<0.01). After EA treatment, the PWTs recovered rapidly and were significantly higher than those in the CCI group on 3, 7, 15 and 30 days after surgery (P<0.01). The numbers of NR2B-immunoreactive cells of the CCI group significantly increased after CCI surgery compared with the sham group (P<0.01). Compared with the CCI group, stimulation of EA markedly decreased the numbers of NR2B-immunoreactive cells at Day 3, 7, 15 and 30 (P<0.05). In the sham group, NR2B mRNA was expressed at a low level. It increased after CCI surgery, which increased rapidly at Day 7 (P<0.01) and reached its peak value at Day 15 (P<0.01). After EA stimulation, relative quantity of NR2B mRNA expression was less than that in the CCI group at Day 15 and 30 (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Low frequency of EA had antinociceptive effect in CCI rat model. The analgesic effects of EA might be through the inhibition of NR2B.
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Tang Y, Yin HY, Liu J, Rubini P, Illes P. P2X receptors and acupuncture analgesia. Brain Res Bull 2018; 151:144-152. [PMID: 30458249 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purinergic signaling has recently been suggested to constitute the cellular mechanism underlying acupuncture-induced analgesia (AA). By extending the original hypothesis on endogenous opioids being released during AA, Geoffrey Burnstock and Maiken Nedergaard supplied evidence for the involvement of purinoceptors (P2 and P1/A1 receptors) in the beneficial effects of AA. In view of certain pain states (e.g. neuropathic pain) which respond only poorly to therapy with standard analgesics, as well as with respect to the numerous unwanted effects of opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it is of great significance to search for alternative therapeutic options. Because clinical studies on AA yielded sometimes heterogeneous results, it is of eminent importance to relay on experiments carried out on laboratory animals, by evaluating the data with stringent statistical methods including comparison with a sufficient number of control groups. In this review, we summarize the state of the art situation with respect to the participation of P2 receptors in AA and try to forecast how the field is likely to move forward in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Tang
- Medical & Nursing School, Chengdu University, 610106 Chengdu, China; Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China.
| | - Hai-Yan Yin
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China
| | - Patrizia Rubini
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Leipzig, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Illes
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Universität Leipzig, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 610075 Chengdu, China.
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23
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Zhou YF, Ying XM, He XF, Shou SY, Wei JJ, Tai ZX, Shao XM, Liang Y, Fang F, Fang JQ, Jiang YL. Suppressing PKC-dependent membrane P2X3 receptor upregulation in dorsal root ganglia mediated electroacupuncture analgesia in rat painful diabetic neuropathy. Purinergic Signal 2018; 14:359-369. [PMID: 30084084 PMCID: PMC6298917 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-018-9617-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is a common and troublesome diabetes complication. Protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated dorsal root ganglia (DRG) P2X3 receptor upregulation is one important mechanism underlying PDN. Accumulating evidence demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) at low frequency could effectively attenuate neuropathic pain. Our previous study showed that 2-Hz EA could relieve pain well in PDN. The study aimed to investigate whether 2-Hz EA relieves pain in PDN through suppressing PKC-mediated DRG P2X3 receptor upregulation. A 7-week feeding of high-fat and high-sugar diet plus a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ) in a dose of 35 mg/kg after a 5-week feeding of the diet successfully induced type 2 PDN in rats as revealed by the elevated body weight, fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin and insulin resistance, and the reduced paw withdrawal threshold (PWT), as well as the destructive ultrastructural change of sciatic nerve. DRG plasma membrane P2X3 receptor level and DRG PKC expression were elevated. Two-hertz EA failed to improve peripheral neuropathy; however, it reduced PWT, DRG plasma membrane P2X3 receptor level, and DRG PKC expression in PDN rats. Intraperitoneal administration of P2X3 receptor agonist αβ-meATP or PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) blocked 2-Hz EA analgesia. Furthermore, PMA administration increased DRG plasma membrane P2X3 receptor level in PDN rats subject to 2-Hz EA treatment. These findings together indicated that the analgesic effect of EA in PDN is mediated by suppressing PKC-dependent membrane P2X3 upregulation in DRG. EA at low frequency is a valuable approach for PDN control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Feng Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310014, China.,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Ying
- Department of Massage, the Third Affliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China
| | - Xiao-Fen He
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Sheng-Yun Shou
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jun-Jun Wei
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Zhao-Xia Tai
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Shao
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Yi Liang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jian-Qiao Fang
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Yong-Liang Jiang
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, the Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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24
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Electroacupuncture Alleviates Pain Responses and Inflammation in a Rat Model of Acute Gout Arthritis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:2598975. [PMID: 29743920 PMCID: PMC5884439 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2598975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 01/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Acute gout arthritis is one of the most painful inflammatory conditions. Treatments for gout pain are limited to colchicine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids, which oftentimes result in severe adverse effects. Electroacupuncture (EA) has been proved to be effective in relieving many inflammatory pain conditions with few side effects. Here, we aim to investigate the therapeutic potentials of EA on pain and inflammation of a rat model of acute gout arthritis and underlying mechanisms. We found that 2/100 Hz EA produced the most robust analgesic effect on mechanical hyperalgesia of acute gout arthritis rat model compared with 2 and 100 Hz. EA produced similar analgesic effect compared with indomethacin. 2/100 Hz EA also significantly alleviates the ongoing pain behavior, thermal hyperalgesia, and ankle edema. Locally applied μ and κ-opioid receptor antagonists but not adenosine A1 receptor antagonist significantly abolished the analgesic effect of EA. Locally applied μ and κ-opioid receptor agonists produced significant antiallodynia on acute gout arthritis rats, mimicking EA. Furthermore, 2/100 Hz EA upregulated β-endorphin expression in inflamed ankle skin tissue. Our results demonstrated, for the first time, that EA can be used for relieving acute gout arthritis with effect dependent on peripheral opioid system and comparable with the one obtained with indomethacin.
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