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Shamsnia HS, Peyrovinasab A, Amirlou D, Sirouskabiri S, Rostamian F, Basiri N, Shalmani LM, Hashemi M, Hushmandi K, Abdolghaffari AH. BDNF-TrkB Signaling Pathway in Spinal Cord Injury: Insights and Implications. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04381-4. [PMID: 39046702 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04381-4] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a neurodegenerative disorder that has critical impact on patient's life expectance and life span, and this disorder also leads to negative socioeconomic features. SCI is defined as a firm collision to the spinal cord which leads to the fracture and the dislocation of vertebrae. The current available treatment is surgery. However, it cannot fully treat SCI, and many consequences remain after the surgery. Accordingly, finding new therapeutics is critical. BDNF-TrkB signaling is a vital signaling in neuronal differentiation, survival, overgrowth, synaptic plasticity, etc. Hence, many studies evaluate its impact on various neurodegenerative disorders. There are several studies evaluating this signaling in SCI, and they show promising outcomes. It was shown that various exercises, chemical interventions, etc. had significant positive impact on SCI by affecting BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway. This study aims to accumulate and evaluate these data and inspect whether this signaling is effective or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedieh Sadat Shamsnia
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Peyrovinasab
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Dorsa Amirlou
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Sirouskabiri
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rostamian
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Basiri
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Mohaghegh Shalmani
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran.
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Amir Hossein Abdolghaffari
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, No. 99, Yakhchal, Gholhak, Shariati St, P. O. Box: 19419-33111, Tehran, Iran.
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
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Miao C, Li X, Zhang Y. Effect of acupuncture on BDNF signaling pathways in several nervous system diseases. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1248348. [PMID: 37780709 PMCID: PMC10536971 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1248348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the understanding of the mechanisms of acupuncture in the treatment of neurological disorders has deepened, and considerable progress has been made in basic and clinical research on acupuncture, but the relationship between acupuncture treatment mechanisms and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has not yet been elucidated. A wealth of evidence has shown that acupuncture exhibits a dual regulatory function of activating or inhibiting different BDNF pathways. This review focuses on recent research advances on the effect of acupuncture on BDNF and downstream signaling pathways in several neurological disorders. Firstly, the signaling pathways of BDNF and its function in regulating plasticity are outlined. Furthermore, this review discusses explicitly the regulation of BDNF by acupuncture in several nervous system diseases, including neuropathic pain, Parkinson's disease, cerebral ischemia, depression, spinal cord injury, and other diseases. The underlying mechanisms of BDNF regulation by acupuncture are also discussed. This review aims to improve the theoretical system of the mechanism of acupuncture action through further elucidation of the mechanism of acupuncture modulation of BDNF in the treatment of neurological diseases and to provide evidence to support the wide application of acupuncture in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxin Miao
- Second Clinical Medical School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaoning Li
- Department of Acupuncture, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yishu Zhang
- Second Clinical Medical School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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Zargani M, Ramirez-Campillo R, Arabzadeh E. Swimming and L-arginine loaded chitosan nanoparticles ameliorates aging-induced neuron atrophy, autophagy marker LC3, GABA and BDNF-TrkB pathway in the spinal cord of rats. Pflugers Arch 2023; 475:621-635. [PMID: 36869900 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02795-y] [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: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Aging is associated with muscle atrophy, and erosion and destruction of neuronal pathways in the spinal cord. The study aim was to assess the effect of swimming training (Sw) and L-arginine loaded chitosan nanoparticles (LA-CNPs) on the sensory and motor neuron population, autophagy marker LC3, total oxidant status/total antioxidant capacity, behavioural test, GABA and BDNF-TrkB pathway in the spinal cord of aging rats. The rats were randomized to five groups: young (8-weeks) control (n = 7), old control (n = 7), old Sw (n = 7), old LA-CNPs (n = 7) and old Sw + LA-CNPs (n = 7). Groups under LA-CNPs supplementation received 500 mg/kg/day. Sw groups performed a swimming exercise programme 5 days per week for 6 weeks. Upon the completion of the interventions the rats were euthanized and the spinal cord was fixed and frozen for histological assessment, IHC, and gene expression analysis. The old group had more atrophy in the spinal cord with higher changes in LC3 as an indicator of autophagy in the spinal cord compared to the young group (p < 0.0001). The old Sw + LA-CNPs group increased (improved) spinal cord GABA (p = 0.0187), BDNF (p = 0.0003), TrkB (p < 0.0001) gene expression, decreased autophagy marker LC3 protein (p < 0.0001), nerve atrophy and jumping/licking latency (p < 0.0001), improved sciatic functional index score and total oxidant status/total antioxidant capacity compared to the old group (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, swimming and LA-CNPs seems to ameliorate aging-induced neuron atrophy, autophagy marker LC3, oxidant-antioxidant status, functional restoration, GABA and BDNF-TrkB pathway in the spinal cord of aging rats. Our study provides experimental evidence for a possible positive role of swimming and L-arginine loaded chitosan nanoparticles to decrease complications of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Zargani
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
| | - Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, 7591538, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ehsan Arabzadeh
- Exercise Physiology Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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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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Electroacupuncture Suppresses CCI-Induced Neuropathic Pain through GABAA Receptors. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4505934. [PMID: 36248405 PMCID: PMC9568313 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4505934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain remains a chronic and intractable pain. Recent studies have shown a close relationship between gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor and neuropathic pain. Spinal cord GABAA receptors are key modulators of pain processing. Electroacupuncture (EA) is currently used worldwide to relieve pain. The immunomodulatory effect of EA in animals has been proposed in previous studies. However, it remains unclear how EA contributes to alleviating neuropathic pain. In this study, the chronic constriction injury (CCI) rat model was used to explore the relationship between GABAA receptor and neuropathic pain. We also investigated whether EA treatment could ameliorate pain hypersensitivity by modulating the GABAA receptor. To determine the function of EA in neurological diseases, in this study, the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) were assessed to determine the threshold of pain. In addition, we used Western blot, immunofluorescence, and real-time quantitative PCR to confirm whether EA treatment relieves pain hypersensitivity by regulating GABAA receptors. The morphology of synapse was examined using an electron microscope. In the present study, EA relieved mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. EA also inhibited microglial activation in the spinal cord, accompanied by increased levels of GABAARα2, GABAARα3, and GABAARγ2 subunits. However, the analgesic effect of EA was attenuated by treatment with the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculine. Overall, the present results indicate that microglia and GABAA receptor might participate in EA analgesia. These results contribute to our understanding of the impact of EA on rats after sciatic nerve compression, providing a theoretical basis for the clinical application of EA analgesia.
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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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Lai Z, Liu H, Liu G. Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Electric Acupuncture on Neural Functional Recovery and Related Pathways of Rats after Spinal Cord Injury. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:8613384. [PMID: 35937410 PMCID: PMC9355760 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8613384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a type of damage to the central nervous system (CNS) caused by various factors. The secondary injury of SCI is more complicated. Studies have found that electroacupuncture can help the recovery of nerve function during spinal cord injury. Therefore, this study explored the efficacy of electroacupuncture on complications after spinal cord injury through meta-analysis. Methods Relevant literatures published from January 2010 to March 2022 were searched with "Electric acupuncture, Spinal cord injury, Neural functional recovery, Spinal cord injury in rats, Neuronal Signaling" as search words. The risk of bias of included references was analyzed and assessed using RevMan 5.3 software and Stata software. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Q-test and heterogeneity (I 2). Results There was no heterogeneity among the study groups. The comparison on the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture and conventional therapy suggested that electroacupuncture was more effective for nerve recovery after spinal cord injury than conventional therapy. It can better improve the recovery of motor function after spinal cord injury in rats. On the other hand, SCI+EA had a good inhibitory effect on the expression of RhoA protein signal in rats and had a positive effect on the signal pathway. Discussion. The results of meta-analysis confirmed that electroacupuncture was more effective than conventional therapy in inhibiting pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengjiao Lai
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Minzu University, Liaotong, 028000 Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Huihui Liu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150001 Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Guobin Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Kequ, Tongliao, 028000 Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
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Liu Y, Huang L, Xu G, Tian H, Zhou Z, Huang F, Liang F. The Application of Acupuncture Therapy for Postoperative Pain Over the Past 20 Years: A Bibliometric Analysis. J Pain Res 2022; 15:2085-2104. [PMID: 35923845 PMCID: PMC9343020 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s371399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyze and visualize the research trends on acupuncture therapy for postoperative pain over the past 20 years to identify hotspots and frontiers, and provide new research ideas. Methods A search of the Web of Science database, with a time frame of 2001–01-01 to 2022–02-28, was conducted to collect literatures related to acupuncture therapy for postoperative pain. A bibliometric analysis and visualization of results was performed using CiteSpace software for the volume of annual publications, journals, countries, institutions, authors, keywords, and references. Results A total of 840 literatures were eventually included in the analysis. The number of publications has fluctuated upwards each year over the past 20 years and reached a peak in the latest three years. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine was the journal with the most relevant publications and Pain was the most frequently cited journal. The country with the highest volume of publications was China, and the USA contributed most to the international collaboration. The most prolific and influential authors were Inhyunk Ha and Han JS respectively. The most frequent keyword was “acupuncture”. References with highest frequency or centrality were both systematic evaluations focusing on different acupuncture therapies for postoperative pain relief. Conclusion The field of acupuncture therapy for postoperative pain is currently in a period of high growth. China and the USA have made the largest contribution to the volume of publications. The most influential institutions and authors are mainly from China and South Korea. The overall collaborative network needs to be strengthened. Electroacupuncture and auricular acupuncture (therapeutic techniques), low back surgery (types of surgery), and “postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting” are research hotspots in this field. Improvement of postoperative life quality, proof of clinical efficacy and evidence-based evaluation are the current research trends and frontiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Liu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liuyang Huang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guixing Xu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Tian
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhuo Zhou
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fengyuan Huang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fanrong Liang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Fanrong Liang, Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion in Sichuan Province, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 136 0805 8216, Fax +86-028-87683962, Email
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Electroacupuncture Alleviates Neuropathic Pain through Regulating miR-206-3p Targeting BDNF after CCI. Neural Plast 2022; 2022:1489841. [PMID: 35719137 PMCID: PMC9203241 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1489841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Electroacupuncture (EA) has benefits for neuropathic pain. However, the underlying mechanisms are still unknown. The current study explores the underlying mechanisms of EA in neuropathic pain of chronic constriction injury (CCI) rats. Material/Methods. Overall, 126 Sprague-Dawley (200-250 g) rats were divided into nine groups randomly: the sham-operated, CCI, CCI+EA, CCI+sham EA, CCI+NS, CCI+AAV-NC, CCI+AAV-miR-206-3p, CCI+EA+NS, and CCI+EA+AAV-miR-206-3p groups. The animals were sacrificed 14 days postsurgery. Mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) tests were used to determine differences in neurobehavioral manifestations. qPCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence (IF) were carried out to detect the expression levels of miR-206-3p, BDNF, BAX/Bcl-2, TNF-α, and IL-6. Nissl staining was measured to observe morphological changes in neurons. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to evaluate microscopic changes in dorsal horn synapses. Results Hyperalgesia was reduced markedly by EA in the CCI model. The expression level of miR-206-3p was elevated, whereas the expression levels of BDNF, BAX/Bcl-2, TNF-α, and IL-6 were decreased in EA-treated CCI rats. However, a miR-206-3p inhibitor partially abrogated the analgesic effect of EA and resulted in poor behavioral performance and the BDNF, BAX/Bcl-2, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression was elevated as well. Conclusions EA can relieve neuropathic pain by regulating the miR-206-3p/BDNF pathway, thus exerting anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effect.
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Jiang K, Sun Y, Chen X. Mechanism Underlying Acupuncture Therapy in Spinal Cord Injury: A Narrative Overview of Preclinical Studies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875103. [PMID: 35462893 PMCID: PMC9021644 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results from various pathogenic factors that destroy the normal structure and function of the spinal cord, subsequently causing sensory, motor, and autonomic nerve dysfunction. SCI is one of the most common causes of disability and death globally. It leads to severe physical and mental injury to patients and causes a substantial economic burden on families and the society. The pathological changes and underlying mechanisms within SCI involve oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, etc. As a traditional therapy, acupuncture has a positive effect promoting the recovery of SCI. Acupuncture-induced neuroprotection includes several mechanisms such as reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting the inflammatory response and neuronal apoptosis, alleviating glial scar formation, promoting neural stem cell differentiation, and improving microcirculation within the injured area. Therefore, the recent studies exploring the mechanism of acupuncture therapy in SCI will help provide a theoretical basis for applying acupuncture and seeking a better treatment target and acupuncture approach for SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunpeng Jiang
- Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
| | - Yulin Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
| | - Xinle Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
- *Correspondence: Xinle Chen,
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11
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Needling Interventions for Sciatica: Choosing Methods Based on Neuropathic Pain Mechanisms-A Scoping Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10102189. [PMID: 34069357 PMCID: PMC8158699 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10102189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sciatica is a condition often accompanied by neuropathic pain (NP). Acupuncture and dry needling are common treatments for pain, and the current literature supports acupuncture as an effective treatment for sciatica. However, it is unknown if the mechanisms of NP are considered in the delivery of needling interventions for sciatica. Our objective was to assess the efficacy and the effectiveness of needling therapies, to identify common needling practices and to investigate if NP mechanisms are considered in the treatment of sciatica. A scoping review of the literature on needling interventions for sciatica and a review of the literature on mechanisms related to NP and needling interventions were performed. Electronic literature searches were conducted on PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to August, 2020 to identify relevant papers. Reference lists of included papers were also manually screened and a related-articles search through PubMed was performed on all included articles. Mapping of the results included description of included studies, summary of results, and identification of gaps in the existing literature. Ten articles were included. All studies used acupuncture for the treatment of sciatica, no studies on dry needling were identified. Current evidence supports the efficacy and effectiveness of acupuncture for sciatica, however, no studies considered underlying NP mechanisms in the acupuncture approach for sciatica and the rationale for using acupuncture was inconsistent among trials. This review reveals that neuropathic pain mechanisms are not routinely considered in needling approaches for patients with sciatica. Studies showed acupuncture to be an effective treatment for sciatic pain, however, further research is warranted to explore if needling interventions for sciatica and NP would be more effective if NP mechanisms are considered.
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Garzón C, Caminos JE, Alzate JP, Eslava-Schmalbach JH, Garcés MF, Beltrán-Dussan EH. Effect of neural therapy on NGF and BDNF serum levels in patients with chronic pain. A pilot study. REVISTA DE LA FACULTAD DE MEDICINA 2021. [DOI: 10.15446/revfacmed.v69n3.80142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Neurotrophins (NT) are a family of proteins consisting of the nerve growth factor (NGF), the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and NT-3 and NT-4/5. These proteins play an essential role in neuronal survival, differentiation, and proliferation.
Objectives: To analyze the variations of NGF and BDNF serum levels in patients with chronic pain after undergoing neural therapy and to establish the effects of this type of intervention on their quality of life.
Materials and methods: Prospective pilot study conducted in 10 patients with chronic pain treated with neural therapy between July 2017 and April 2018 in Bogotá D.C., Colombia. Three consultations were performed (one in which the intervention was initiated, and two follow-up visits every three weeks). During each consultation, the patients’ quality of life was assessed using the SF-12 scale and their NGF and BDNF serum levels were measured. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics, using medians and interquartile ranges for quantitative variables, and absolute frequencies and percentages for qualitative variables.
Results: The median score on the SF-12 scale tended to improve in the first and second follow-up visits compared with the baseline score (pre-intervention), particularly during the first follow-up visit (consultation No. 1: 34.5; follow-up No. 1: 39.5, and follow-up No. 2: 38). Median NGF serum levels had a downward trend after the intervention, particularly in the first follow-up visit (157.6, 42.95, and 237.8, respectively), and in the case of BNDF, an overall downward trend was also found (29.96, 19.24 and 20.43, respectively). An improvement in quality of life related to the decrease in the serum levels of both neurotrophins was observed.
Conclusion: Neural therapy intervention reduced NGF and BDNF serum levels and improved the quality of life of the participants. Therefore, the behavior of these neurotrophins could become a biomarker for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with chronic pain.
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13
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Wan C, Xu Y, Cen B, Xia Y, Yao L, Zheng Y, Zhao J, He S, Chen Y. Neuregulin1-ErbB4 Signaling in Spinal Cord Participates in Electroacupuncture Analgesia in Inflammatory Pain. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:636348. [PMID: 33584196 PMCID: PMC7875897 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.636348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory pain is a severe clinical symptom that aggravates the life quality of patients and places a huge economic burden on individuals and society. As one complementary and alternative therapy, electroacupuncture (EA) is widely used in clinical practice to treat chronic inflammatory pain based on its safety and efficacy. Previous studies have revealed the potential role of adenosine, neuropeptides, and inflammatory factors in EA analgesia in various pain models, but the identity of some of the signaling pathways involved remain unknown. In the present study, we explored whether neuregulin1 (NRG1)-ErbB4 signaling is involved in EA analgesia in inflammatory pain. Repeated EA treatment at the acupoints Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) for 3 consecutive days remarkably attenuated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-treated mice, with an increased expression of NRG1 in spinal cord (SC). We found that ErbB4 kinase participated in both the EA and NRG1 mediated analgesic effects on inflammatory pain by pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation ErbB4 in vivo. Intriguingly, the mice with conditional knockout of ErbB4 from PV+ interneurons in SC showed abnormal basal mechanical threshold. Meanwhile, NRG1 treatment could not relieve tactile allodynia in PV-Erbb4–/– mice or AAV-PV-Erbb4–/– mice after CFA injection. These experimental results suggest that regulating NRG1-ErbB4 signaling in SC could reduce pain hypersensitivity and contribute to EA analgesia in inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaofan Wan
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunlong Xu
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Baoyan Cen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yucen Xia
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Yao
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanjia Zheng
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaying Zhao
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Su He
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Chen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangzhou, China
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14
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Lyu Z, Guo Y, Gong Y, Fan W, Dou B, Li N, Wang S, Xu Y, Liu Y, Chen B, Guo Y, Xu Z, Lin X. The Role of Neuroglial Crosstalk and Synaptic Plasticity-Mediated Central Sensitization in Acupuncture Analgesia. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:8881557. [PMID: 33531894 PMCID: PMC7834789 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8881557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although pain is regarded as a global public health priority, analgesic therapy remains a significant challenge. Pain is a hypersensitivity state caused by peripheral and central sensitization, with the latter considered the culprit for chronic pain. This study summarizes the pathogenesis of central sensitization from the perspective of neuroglial crosstalk and synaptic plasticity and underlines the related analgesic mechanisms of acupuncture. Central sensitization is modulated by the neurotransmitters and neuropeptides involved in the ascending excitatory pathway and the descending pain modulatory system. Acupuncture analgesia is associated with downregulating glutamate in the ascending excitatory pathway and upregulating opioids, 𝛾-aminobutyric acid, norepinephrine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine in the descending pain modulatory system. Furthermore, it is increasingly appreciated that neurotransmitters, cytokines, and chemokines are implicated in neuroglial crosstalk and associated plasticity, thus contributing to central sensitization. Acupuncture produces its analgesic action by inhibiting cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, and upregulating interleukin-10, as well as modulating chemokines and their receptors such as CX3CL1/CX3CR1, CXCL12/CXCR4, CCL2/CCR2, and CXCL1/CXCR2. These factors are regulated by acupuncture through the activation of multiple signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling (e.g., the p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinases, and c-Jun-N-terminal kinase pathways), which contribute to the activation of nociceptive neurons. However, the responses of chemokines to acupuncture vary among the types of pain models, acupuncture methods, and stimulation parameters. Thus, the exact mechanisms require future clarification. Taken together, inhibition of central sensitization modulated by neuroglial plasticity is central in acupuncture analgesia, providing a novel insight for the clinical application of acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxi Lyu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yongming Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yinan Gong
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Wen Fan
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka 5100293, Japan
| | - Baomin Dou
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Ningcen Li
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Shenjun Wang
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300381, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
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15
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Wu Q, Yue J, Lin L, Yu X, Zhou Y, Ying X, Chen X, Tu W, Lou X, Yang G, Zhou K, Jiang S. Electroacupuncture may alleviate neuropathic pain via suppressing P2X7R expression. Mol Pain 2021; 17:1744806921997654. [PMID: 33626989 PMCID: PMC7934063 DOI: 10.1177/1744806921997654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a severe problem that is difficult to treat clinically. Reducing abnormal remodeling of dendritic spines/synapses and increasing the anti-inflammatory effects in the spinal cord dorsal horn are potential methods to treat this disease. Previous studies have reported that electroacupuncture (EA) could increase the pain threshold after peripheral nerve injury. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) mediate the activation of microglia and participate in the occurrence and development of neuropathic pain. We hypothesized that the effects of EA on relieving pain may be related to the downregulation of the P2X7R. Spinal nerve ligation (SNL) rats were used as a model in this experiment, and 2'(3')-O-(4-benzoyl)benzoyl ATP (BzATP) was used as a P2X7R agonist. We found that EA treatment decreased dendritic spine density, inhibited synaptic reconstruction and reduced inflammatory response, which is consistent with the decrease in P2X7R expression as well as the improved neurobehavioral performance. In contrast to the beneficial effects of EA, BzATP enhanced abnormal remodeling of dendritic spines/synapses and inflammation. Furthermore, the EA-mediated positive effects were reversed by BzATP, which is consistent with the increased P2X7R expression. These findings indicated that EA improves neuropathic pain by reducing abnormal dendritic spine/synaptic reconstruction and inflammation via suppressing P2X7R expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyun Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Yue
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Li Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaolan Yu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ye Zhou
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xinwang Ying
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenzhan Tu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xinfa Lou
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Guanhu Yang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Kecheng Zhou
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Songhe Jiang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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16
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Cao BQ, Tan F, Zhan J, Lai PH. Mechanism underlying treatment of ischemic stroke using acupuncture: transmission and regulation. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:944-954. [PMID: 33229734 PMCID: PMC8178780 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.297061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion is an important cause of neurological damage and repair. After cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, microglia are activated, and a large number of circulating inflammatory cells infiltrate the affected area. This leads to the secretion of inflammatory mediators and an inflammatory cascade that eventually causes secondary brain damage, including neuron necrosis, blood-brain barrier destruction, cerebral edema, and an oxidative stress response. Activation of inflammatory signaling pathways plays a key role in the pathological process of ischemic stroke. Increasing evidence suggests that acupuncture can reduce the inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion and promote repair of the injured nervous system. Acupuncture can not only inhibit the activation and infiltration of inflammatory cells, but can also regulate the expression of inflammation-related cytokines, balance the effects of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, and interfere with inflammatory signaling pathways. Therefore, it is important to study the transmission and regulatory mechanism of inflammatory signaling pathways after acupuncture treatment for cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury to provide a theoretical basis for clinical treatment of this type of injury using acupuncture. Our review summarizes the overall conditions of inflammatory cells, mediators, and pathways after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, and discusses the possible synergistic intervention of acupuncture in the inflammatory signaling pathway network to provide a foundation to explore the multiple molecular mechanisms by which acupuncture promotes nerve function restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Qian Cao
- Department of Neurology, Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Feng Tan
- Department of Neurology, Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jie Zhan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Peng-Hui Lai
- Department of Rehabilitation, Nan'ao People's Hospital Dapeng New District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
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17
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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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Liu Q, Liu Y, Bian J, Li Q, Zhang Y. The preemptive analgesia of pre-electroacupuncture in rats with formalin-induced acute inflammatory pain. Mol Pain 2020; 15:1744806919866529. [PMID: 31322476 PMCID: PMC6685110 DOI: 10.1177/1744806919866529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Electroacupuncture has been elicited to effectively alleviate the pain sensation. Preemptive analgesic effect of pre-electroacupuncture has also been suggested in recent studies, while the underlying analgesic mechanism of pre-electroacupuncture requires further investigation. This study aimed to explore the preemptive analgesia of pre-electroacupuncture in formalin-induced acute inflammatory pain model. Methods Forty rats were randomly divided into control, model, pre-electroacupuncture, and post-electroacupuncture group. Inflammatory pain model was induced via injecting 50 µl 5% formalin into the plantar surface of right hind paw, while the equal volume of saline injection in the control group. Rats in the pre-electroacupuncture group were treated with electroacupuncture at ipsilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Weizhong (BL40) acupoints (2 Hz, 1 mA) for 30 min before formalin injection, while received the same electroacupuncture treatment immediately after formalin injection in the post-electroacupuncture group. Flinching number and licking time were recorded during 60 min after formalin injection. Immunofluorescence and Western blot were used to detect the expression of ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1) and c-fos in spinal cord. Moreover, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was applied to measure the secretion of IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-4, substance P, and calcitonin gene-related peptide in spinal cord. Results Paw flinching and licking were obviously induced by formalin injection. Iba1, c-fos, proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ), and pain neurotransmitters (substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide) were dramatically increased in the L4-5 spinal cord after formalin injection, while anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 was decreased. Pre-electroacupuncture and post-electroacupuncture administration significantly attenuated formalin-induced nociceptive effects, spinal microglia and neurons activation, proinflammatory cytokines and pain neurotransmitters upregulation, and upregulated the anti-inflammatory cytokine. Furthermore, these effects of pre-electroacupuncture were more significant than that of post-electroacupuncture. Conclusions This study illustrates the potential therapeutic effect of pre-electroacupuncture against acute inflammatory pain and reveals the mechanism underlying pre-electroacupuncture mediated analgesia, thus providing a novel preemptive analgesic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Liu
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan Liu
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiang Bian
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Qun Li
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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19
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Li Y, Zhang X, Fu Z, Zhou Q. MicroRNA-212-3p Attenuates Neuropathic Pain via Targeting Sodium Voltage-gated Channel Alpha Subunit 3 (NaV 1.3). Curr Neurovasc Res 2020; 16:465-472. [PMID: 31713483 DOI: 10.2174/1567202616666191111104145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose:
To explore the role and potential mechanism of miR-212-3p in neuropathic
pain regulation.
Methods:
Adult male rats were used to establish chronic constriction injury (CCI) model to mimic
the neuropathic pain. Then, paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal thermal latency
(PWL) were determined. The concentrations of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and
tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured with enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay
(ELISA) kit and the expression of miR-212-3p was measured by real time quantitative PCR (RTqPCR).
Besides, miR-212-3p agomir was intrathecally injected into CCI rats and the expression of
key apoptotic proteins was determined by western blot. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter assay
was used to determine the binding of miR-212-3p and 3’ untranslated regions (3’UTR) of NaV1.3
and the expression levels of NaV1.3 were measured by western blot and RT-qPCR.
Results:
In the CCI group, the PWT and PWL were significantly decreased and IL-1β, IL-6 and
TNF-α were increased. miR-212-3p was decreased in response to CCI. The intrathecal injection of
miR-212-3p agomir into CCI rats improved the PWT and PWL, decreased the IL-1β, IL-6 and
TNF-α, decreased the expression levels of BCL2 associated X, apoptosis regulator (Bax), cleaved
caspase-3 and increased the expression levels of BCL2 apoptosis regulator (Bcl-2). The results of
dual--luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-212-3p could directly bind with 3’UTR of NaV1.3.
The expression of NaV1.3 was up-regulated in CCI rats who were intrathecally injected with miRctrl,
whereas it decreased in CCI rats intrathecally injected with miR-212-3p agomir.
Conclusion:
The expression of miR-212a-3p attenuates neuropathic pain by targeting NaV1.3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingda Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chifeng Municipal Hospital, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, 024000, China
| | - Xizhe Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chifeng Municipal Hospital, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, 024000, China
| | - Zhimei Fu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310012, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chifeng Municipal Hospital, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, 024000, China
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20
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Li Y, Fang Z, Gu N, Bai F, Ma Y, Dong H, Yang Q, Xiong L. Inhibition of chemokine CX3CL1 in spinal cord mediates the electroacupuncture-induced suppression of inflammatory pain. J Pain Res 2019; 12:2663-2672. [PMID: 31564958 PMCID: PMC6732508 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s205987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Chemokine CX3CL1 and its receptor CX3CR1 in the lumbar spinal cord play crucial roles in pain processing. Electroacupuncture (EA) is recognized as an alternative therapy in pain treatment due to its efficacy and safety. However, the analgesic mechanism of EA remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether EA suppressed complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced pain via modulating CX3CL1-CX3CR1 pathway. Materials and methods Inflammatory pain was induced by intraplantar injection of CFA to the left hind paw of Sprague-Dawley rats. EA with 2 Hz for 30 mins was given to bilateral Zusanli acupoints (ST36) on the first and third day after CFA injection. Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were tested with von Frey tests and Hargreaves tests, respectively. The expressions of CX3CL1, CX3CR1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were quantified with Western blots. The release of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were evaluated with ELISA. Recombinant CX3CL1 or control IgG were then injected through intrathecal catheters in the EA-treated CFA model rats. The behavioral tests, p38 MAPK activation and cytokine release were then evaluated. Results EA significantly inhibited inflammatory pain induced by CFA for 3 days. Meanwhile, EA downregulated the expression of CX3CL1 but not CX3CR1 in the lumbar spinal cord of the CFA rats. Besides, activation of p38 MAPK and the release of pain-related cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) were inhibited by EA. Intrathecal injection of CX3CL1 largely reversed the analgesic effect of EA treatment and re-activated p38 MAPK signaling, and resulted in pro-inflammatory cytokines increase in acupuncture-treated rats. Conclusion Our findings indicate that EA alleviates inflammatory pain via modulating CX3CL1 signaling in lumbar spinal cord, revealing a potential mechanism of anti-nociception of EA in inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongping Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuhai Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongyuan Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailong Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianzi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Lize Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
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21
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Kim YM, Ji ES, Ko IG, Jin JJ, Cho YH, Seo TB. Combination of treadmill exercise with bone marrow stromal cells transplantation activates protein synthesis-related molecules in soleus muscle of the spinal cord injured rats. J Exerc Rehabil 2019; 15:377-382. [PMID: 31316929 PMCID: PMC6614772 DOI: 10.12965/jer.1938284.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated whether treadmill exercise with bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) transplantation increase expression level of protein synthesis-related molecules in the soleus muscle after spinal cord injury (SCI). The spinal cord contusion injury was performed at the T9-10 level using the impactor (10 g×25 mm). BMSCs were cultured from femur and tibia of 4-week-old rats and then transplanted directly into the lesion 1-week post injury. The rats in exercise group were walking on treadmill device for 6 days per a week during 6 weeks. Prepared soleus muscles were used for examining mechanisms of protein synthesis after SCI. Myostatin induction level was increased by SCI, but BMSCs engrafting after SCI decreased compared to SCI group. Combination of treadmill exercise with BMSCs showed more potent decrement on myostatin expression. Protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) levels were significantly increased in SCI and BMSCs transplantation group compared to SCI group. Combination of treadmill exercise with BMSCs further facilitated expression levels of Akt and mTOR. Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (p-CREB) induction levels were more increased in SCI and BMSC transplantation group compared to SCI group. Combination of treadmill exercise with BMSCs further increased expression levels of IGF-I and p-CREB, although statistical significance was not appeared. Combining treadmill exercise with BMSCs transplantation might accelerate protein synthesis and hypertrophy in the soleus muscle after SCI through activation of IGF-I/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Mi Kim
- Sports Science Research Institution, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun-Sang Ji
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Il-Gyu Ko
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun-Jang Jin
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeong-Hyun Cho
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Natural Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Tae-Beom Seo
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Natural Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
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22
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Kim YM, Jin JJ, Lee SJ, Seo TB, Ji ES. Treadmill exercise with bone marrow stromal cells transplantation facilitates neuroprotective effect through BDNF-ERK1/2 pathway in spinal cord injury rats. J Exerc Rehabil 2018; 14:335-340. [PMID: 30018915 PMCID: PMC6028222 DOI: 10.12965/jer.1836264.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) has been known as one of the effective therapeutic methods for functional recovery of spinal cord injury (SCI). Treadmill exercise also facilitates the functional recovery of SCI. Previously, we reported that combination of BMSCs transplantation with treadmill exercise potentiated the locomotor function in SCI rats. In the present study, we investigated whether recovery effect of BMSCs transplantation or treadmill exercise appears through the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-extracellular signal–regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway. The spinal cord contusion injury was performed at the T9–T10 level using the impactor. Cultured BMSCs were transplanted directly into the lesion 1 week after SCI. Treadmill exercise was performed 6 days per a week for 6 weeks. Western blot for Bax, Bcl-2, BDNF, tyrosine kinase B (TrkB), and phosphorylated ERK1/2 (p-ERK1/2), phosphorylated JNK was performed. In the present results, combination of BMSCs transplantation with tread-mill exercise potently decreased Bax expression, potently increased Bcl-2 expression, and potently enhanced BDNF and TrkB expressions in the injured spinal cord. Combination of BMSCs transplantation with treadmill exercise further facilitated p-ERK1/2 and p-c-Jun expression levels. The present findings demonstrated the synergistic effect of treadmill exercise on neuroregenerative effect of BMSCs transplantation appeared through the activation of BDNF-ERK1/2 pathway in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Mi Kim
- Sports Science Research Institution, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun-Jang Jin
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sam-Jun Lee
- Department of Physical Education, College of Health, Welfare, and Education, Tong Myong University, Busan, Korea
| | - Tae-Beom Seo
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Natural Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Eun-Sang Ji
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
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