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Wang X, Wang J, Han R, Yu C, Shen F. Neural circuit mechanisms of acupuncture effect: where are we now? Front Neurol 2024; 15:1399925. [PMID: 38938783 PMCID: PMC11208484 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1399925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, there has been increasing attention on the impact of acupuncture on the dysregulated neural circuits in different disease. This has led to new understandings of how acupuncture works. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of research that have examined the impact of acupuncture on abnormal neural circuits associated with pain, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, addiction disorders, cognitive problems, and gastrointestinal disorders. These studies have shown that acupuncture's therapeutic effects are mediated by specific brain areas and neurons involved in neural circuit mechanisms, emphasising its wide-ranging influence. The positive impacts of acupuncture can be ascribed to its ability to modify the functioning of neurocircuits in various physiological conditions. Nevertheless, contemporary studies on acupuncture neural circuits frequently overlook the comprehensive circuit mechanism including the periphery, central nervous system, and target organ. Additionally, the scope of diseases studied is restricted. Future study should focus on broadening the range of diseases studied and exploring the neural circuit mechanisms of these diseases in depth in order to enhance our understanding of acupuncture's neurobiological impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuesong Wang
- College of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Wuhan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Han
- Department of Child Rehabilitation Medicine, Qujing Hospital of Maternity and Childcare, Qujing, China
| | - Chaochao Yu
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Shen
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Chen Y, Li Y, Wu M, Li Z. Electroacupuncture improves cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice by inhibiting oxidative stress related hippocampal neuronal ferroptosis. Brain Res 2024; 1831:148744. [PMID: 38163562 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroacupuncture, recognized as a crucial non-pharmacological therapeutic approach, has demonstrated notable efficacy in enhancing cognitive function among Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective properties of electroacupuncture in APP/PS1 mice with AD. METHODS A total of thirty APP/PS1 mice were randomly assigned to three groups: the Alzheimer's disease group (AD), the electroacupuncture treatment group (EA), and the ferroptosis inhibitor deferasirox treatment group (DFX). Additionally, ten C57BL/6 mice were included as a control group (Control). In the EA group, mice underwent flat needling at Baihui and Yintang, as well as point needling at Renzhong, once daily for 15 min each time. In the DFX group, mice received intraperitoneal injections of deferasirox at a dosage of 100 mg/kg/day. Following the 28-day treatment period, behavioral evaluation, morphological observation of neurons, and detection of neuronal ferroptosis were conducted. RESULTS The electroacupuncture treatment demonstrated a significant improvement in spatial learning, memory ability, and neuronal damage in mice with AD. Analysis of neuronal ferroptosis markers indicated that electroacupuncture interventions reduced the elevated levels of malondialdehyde, iron, and ptgs2 expression, while also increasing superoxide dismutase activity, Ferroportin 1 and glutathione peroxidase 4 expression. Moreover, the regulatory impact of electroacupuncture on ferroptosis may be attributed to its ability to enhance the expression and nuclear translocation of Nrf2. CONCLUSIONS This study suggested that electroacupuncture could inhibit the neuronal ferroptosis by activating the antioxidant function in neurons through p62/Keap1/Nrf2 signal pathway, thereby improve the cognitive function of AD mice by the neuronal protection effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yitong Li
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Wu
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- School of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
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Seok JW, Kim G, Kim JU. Comparative efficacy of seven nonpharmacological interventions on global cognition in older adults with and without mild cognitive impairment: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8402. [PMID: 38600212 PMCID: PMC11006946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58232-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To maintain current cognitive function and access greater cognitive reserves, nonpharmacological interventions may be a viable alternative for older adults with or without cognitive impairment. This study aimed to compare different nonpharmacological interventions for enhancing global cognition, including mind-body exercise, physical exercise, non-invasive brain stimulation, cognitive training intervention (CTI), acutherapy (ACU), meditation, and music therapy, by applying a network meta-analysis (NMA). Sixty-one randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of interventions on global cognition in older adults with or without mild cognitive decline were selected. An NMA was conducted to compare the efficacy of different nonpharmacological interventions. The NMA revealed that mind-body exercise (standardized mean difference, 1.384; 95% confidence interval, 0.777-1.992); ACU (1.283; 0.478-2.088); meditation (0.910; 0.097-1.724); non-invasive brain stimulation (1.242; 0.254-2.230); CTI (1.269; 0.736-1.802); and physical exercise (0.977; 0.212-1.742), showed positive effects compared to passive controls. There were no significant differences between the efficacies of other interventions. Nonpharmacological interventions may potentially enhance and maintain global cognition through various pathways, such as memorizing movements and enhancing brain plasticity by reducing stress in the older adult population. Additional studies are needed to clarify the impact of other variables, including intervention methods or psychological variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Woo Seok
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672, Yuseong-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Gahye Kim
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672, Yuseong-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeuk U Kim
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672, Yuseong-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea.
- KM Convergence Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea.
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Chen H, Yang X, Gao Y, Jiang H, Guo M, Zhou Y, Li C, Tan Y, Zhang Y, Xue W. Electroacupuncture ameliorates cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 mouse by modulating TFEB levels to relieve ALP dysfunction. Brain Res 2024; 1823:148683. [PMID: 37992796 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the underlying mechanisms of acupuncture on the effects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment have not been fully elucidated. Defects in ALP (autophagy-lysosomal pathway) and TFEB (transcription factor EB) play critical roles in AD. Our previous studies have demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) can ameliorate both β-amyloid (Aβ) pathology and cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice. However, the effects of EA on the expression of ALP and TFEB and their potential mechanisms require further investigation. Twenty-eight male APP/PS1 mice were randomly divided into Tg and Tg + EA groups, and 14 C57BL/6 mice served as the wild-type (WT) group. After 1 week of adaptation to the living environment, mice in the Tg + EA group were restrained in mouse bags and received manual acupuncture at Baihui (GV20) acupoint and EA stimulation at bilateral Yongquan (KI1) acupoints, using the same restraint method for WT and Tg groups. The intervention was applied for 15 min each time, every other day, lasting for six weeks. After intervention, the spatial learning and memory of the mice was assessed using the Morris water maze test. Hippocampal Aβ expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and ELISA. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to observe autophagic vacuoles and autolysosomes in the hippocampus. Immunofluorescence method was applied to examine the expression of TFEB in CA1 region of the hippocampus and the co-localization of CTSD or LAMP1 with Aβ. Western blot analysis was performed to evaluate the changes of LC3, p62, CTSD, LAMP1, TFEB and n-TFEB (nuclear TFEB) in the hippocampus. The findings of behavioral assessment indicated that EA alleviated the cognitive impairment of APP/PS1 mice. Compared with the WT group, the Tg group showed significant cognitive decline and abnormalities in ALP and TFEB function (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). However, these abnormal changes were alleviated in the Tg + EA group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). The Tg group also showed more senile plaques and ALP dysfunction features, compared with the WT group, and these changes were alleviated by EA. In conclusion, this study highlights that EA ameliorated Aβ pathology-related cognitive impairments in the APP/PS1 model associated with ALP and TFEB dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Chen
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xiaokun Yang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yushan Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Huili Jiang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Mengwei Guo
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yingyi Zhou
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Chenlu Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yunxiang Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, 510405, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Guangshui City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 432700, China
| | - Weiguo Xue
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
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Shi J, Zhang X, Chen J, Shen R, Cui H, Wu H. Acupuncture and moxibustion therapy for cognitive impairment: the microbiome-gut-brain axis and its role. Front Neurosci 2024; 17:1275860. [PMID: 38274501 PMCID: PMC10808604 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1275860] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment poses a significant burden on individuals, families, and society worldwide. Despite the lack of effective treatment strategies, emerging evidence suggests that the microbiome-gut-brain (MGB) axis may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment. While targeted treatment is not yet comprehensive, recently, acupuncture and moxibustion therapy has participated increasingly in the treatment of degenerative diseases and has achieved a certain therapeutic effect. In this review, the possible mechanisms by which acupuncture and moxibustion therapy may improve cognitive impairment through the MGB axis are reviewed, including regulating gut microbial homeostasis, improving intestinal inflammation mediated by the neuroendocrine-immune system, and enhancing intestinal barrier function. We also discuss common acupoints and corresponding mechanism analysis to provide insights into further exploration of mechanisms that target the MGB axis and thereby intervene in cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiatian Shi
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Chen
- Department of Mental Health, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruishi Shen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huashun Cui
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huangan Wu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Yueyang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Alam MJ, Chen JDZ. Non-invasive neuromodulation: an emerging intervention for visceral pain in gastrointestinal disorders. Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:27. [PMID: 37990288 PMCID: PMC10664460 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00130-5] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, which extend from the esophagus to the anus, are the most common diseases of the GI tract. Among these disorders, pain, encompassing both abdominal and visceral pain, is a predominant feature, affecting the patients' quality of life and imposing a substantial financial burden on society. Pain signals originating from the gut intricately shape brain dynamics. In response, the brain sends appropriate descending signals to respond to pain through neuronal inhibition. However, due to the heterogeneous nature of the disease and its limited pathophysiological understanding, treatment options are minimal and often controversial. Consequently, many patients with GI disorders use complementary and alternative therapies such as neuromodulation to treat visceral pain. Neuromodulation intervenes in the central, peripheral, or autonomic nervous system by alternating or modulating nerve activity using electrical, electromagnetic, chemical, or optogenetic methodologies. Here, we review a few emerging noninvasive neuromodulation approaches with promising potential for alleviating pain associated with functional dyspepsia, gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and non-cardiac chest pain. Moreover, we address critical aspects, including the efficacy, safety, and feasibility of these noninvasive neuromodulation methods, elucidate their mechanisms of action, and outline future research directions. In conclusion, the emerging field of noninvasive neuromodulation appears as a viable alternative therapeutic avenue for effectively managing visceral pain in GI disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jahangir Alam
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Jiande D Z Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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