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Zhao J, Wei M, Guo M, Wang M, Niu H, Xu T, Zhou Y. GSK3: A potential target and pending issues for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14818. [PMID: 38946682 PMCID: PMC11215492 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14818] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3), consisting of GSK3α and GSK3β subtypes, is a complex protein kinase that regulates numerous substrates. Research has observed increased GSK3 expression in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and models. AD is a neurodegenerative disorder with diverse pathogenesis and notable cognitive impairments, characterized by Aβ aggregation and excessive tau phosphorylation. This article provides an overview of GSK3's structure and regulation, extensively analyzing its relationship with AD factors. GSK3 overactivation disrupts neural growth, development, and function. It directly promotes tau phosphorylation, regulates amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleavage, leading to Aβ formation, and directly or indirectly triggers neuroinflammation and oxidative damage. We also summarize preclinical research highlighting the inhibition of GSK3 activity as a primary therapeutic approach for AD. Finally, pending issues like the lack of highly specific and affinity-driven GSK3 inhibitors, are raised and expected to be addressed in future research. In conclusion, GSK3 represents a target in AD treatment, filled with hope, challenges, opportunities, and obstacles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Zhao
- School of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Mengying Wei
- College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Future Health Laboratory, Innovation Center of Yangtze River DeltaZhejiang UniversityJiaxingChina
| | - Minsong Guo
- College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Cangnan County Qiushi Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese MedicineWenzhouChina
| | - Mengyao Wang
- School of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Hongxia Niu
- School of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Blood‐stasis‐toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
| | - Tengfei Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Cangnan County Qiushi Innovation Research Institute of Traditional Chinese MedicineWenzhouChina
| | - Yuan Zhou
- School of Basic Medical SciencesZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Blood‐stasis‐toxin Syndrome of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
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Ke C, Shan S, Tan Y, Cao Y, Xie Z, Shi S, Pan J, Zhang W. Signaling pathways in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease with acupuncture: a narrative review. Acupunct Med 2024:9645284241256669. [PMID: 38859546 DOI: 10.1177/09645284241256669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, there is no effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is increasing in prevalence worldwide. The objective of this review was to summarize the core targets and signaling pathways involved in acupuncture treatment for AD. METHODS We reviewed numerous signaling pathways, including mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B (PI3 K/Akt), adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor (NF)-kB, p53, Wnt, nitric oxide (NO), Janus kinase / signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/ STAT), RhoA/ROCK (Rho-associated protein kinase) and Ca2+/ calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) / cyclic adenosine monophosphate-response element-binding protein (CREB). The relevant data were obtained from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang databases. RESULTS In summary, the effects of acupuncture are mediated by multiple targets and pathways. Furthermore, acupuncture can improve pathological changes associated with AD (such as abnormal deposition of amyloid (A)β, tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction and neuronal apoptosis) through multiple signaling pathways. CONCLUSION Overall, our findings provide a basis for future research into the effects of acupuncture on AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ke
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Shengtao Shan
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Tan
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Yang Cao
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhengrong Xie
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Senjie Shi
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Jiang Pan
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
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Chen Z, Wang X, Du S, Liu Q, Xu Z, Guo Y, Lin X. A review on traditional Chinese medicine natural products and acupuncture intervention for Alzheimer's disease based on the neuroinflammatory. Chin Med 2024; 19:35. [PMID: 38419106 PMCID: PMC10900670 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00900-6] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease with insidious onset and progressive development. It is clinically characterized by cognitive impairment, memory impairment and behavioral change. Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture are important components of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and are commonly used in clinical treatment of AD. This paper systematically summarizes the research progress of traditional Chinese medicine natural products and acupuncture treatment of AD, which combined with existing clinical and preclinical evidence, based on a comprehensive review of neuroinflammation, and discusses the efficacy and potential mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine natural products and acupuncture treatment of AD. Resveratrol, curcumin, kaempferol and other Chinese herbal medicine components can significantly inhibit the neuroinflammation of AD in vivo and in vitro, and are candidates for the treatment of AD. Acupuncture can alleviate the memory and cognitive impairment of AD by improving neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, nerve cell apoptosis and reducing the production and aggregation of amyloid β protein (Aβ) in the brain. It has the characteristics of early, safe, effective and benign bidirectional adjustment. The purpose of this paper is to provide a basis for improving the clinical strategies of TCM for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihan Chen
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinrui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Simin Du
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- School of Acupuncture & Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Theory of Innovation and Application, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Theory of Innovation and Application, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaowei Lin
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine Theory of Innovation and Application, Tianjin, 301617, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Zhang J, Cairen Z, Shi L, Zhang M, Yang M, Wang Y, Lu Z. Acupuncture-related techniques for postoperative cognitive complications: a systemic review and meta-analysis. Perioper Med (Lond) 2023; 12:14. [PMID: 37138357 PMCID: PMC10155419 DOI: 10.1186/s13741-023-00303-5] [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: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative cognitive complications are major challenges for postoperative recovery. Acupuncture-related techniques have been used for treating neurocognitive dysfunctions. However, whether they help to prevent postoperative cognitive complicationss remains unclear. We intend to evaluate the effect of acupuncture-related techniques on the incidence of postoperative cognitive complications (PCC) in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. METHODS Based on PRISMA guidelines, a search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov was performed to identify eligible trials published from inception to June 6, 2021. The search was performed in June 2021. The inclusion criteria were prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trials that compared acupuncture-related techniques with other techniques or non-acupuncture treatment in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. Pooled odds ratios (ORs), 95% CIs, and P values were estimated for end points using fixed and random effects statistical models. RESULTS The analysis included 12 studies with 1058 patients. Compared with patients not receiving acupuncture, patients treated with acupuncture-related techniques had a lower incidence of PCCs (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.33 to 0.59; P < 0.001; n = 968) and lower levels of biomarkers, including IL-6, TNF-α, and S100β. Acupuncture with needles and without needles showed similar effects on the prevention of PCCs. The effects of acupuncture-related techniques on PCCs were observed in both English and non-English articles. Subgroup analyses showed that both agitation and/or delirium (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.76; P < 0.001; n = 490) and delayed cognitive recovery (OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.51; P < 0.001; n = 478) were reduced after treatment with acupuncture-related techniques. In adult studies evaluating MMSE scores, the scores were not different between groups (SMD, - 0.71; 95% CI, - 1.72 to 0.3; P = 0.17; n = 441). CONCLUSIONS Acupuncture-related techniques, including needle techniques and electrical techniques, are associated with fewer postoperative cognitive complications, suggesting that acupuncture could be considered a potential option in the perioperative setting. Additional research is needed to develop higher-quality evidence and optimal regimens. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42021258378).
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Affiliation(s)
- Junbao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhuoma Cairen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Xining, 810007, Qinghai, China
| | - Liwen Shi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minjuan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Manping Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Xining, 810007, Qinghai, China
| | - Zhihong Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
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Zhang Z, Chen L, Guo Y, Li D, Zhang J, Liu L, Fan W, Guo T, Qin S, Zhao Y, Xu Z, Chen Z. The neuroprotective and neural circuit mechanisms of acupoint stimulation for cognitive impairment. Chin Med 2023; 18:8. [PMID: 36670425 PMCID: PMC9863122 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00707-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a prevalent neurological disorder that burdens families and the healthcare system. Current conventional therapies for cognitive impairment, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists, are unable to completely stop or reverse the progression of the disease. Also, these medicines may cause serious problems with the digestive system, cardiovascular system, and sleep. Clinically, stimulation of acupoints has the potential to ameliorate the common symptoms of a variety of cognitive disorders, such as memory deficit, language dysfunction, executive dysfunction, reduced ability to live independently, etc. There are common acupoint stimulation mechanisms for treating various types of cognitive impairment, but few systematic analyses of the underlying mechanisms in this domain have been performed. This study comprehensively reviewed the basic research from the last 20 years and found that acupoint stimulation can effectively improve the spatial learning and memory of animals. The common mechanism may be that acupoint stimulation protects hippocampal neurons by preventing apoptosis and scavenging toxic proteins. Additionally, acupoint stimulation has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting neural regeneration, regulating synaptic plasticity, and normalizing neural circuits by restoring brain functional activity and connectivity. Acupoint stimulation also inhibits the production of amyloid β-peptide and the phosphorylation of Tau protein, suggesting that it may protect neurons by promoting correct protein folding and regulating the degradation of toxic proteins via the autophagy-lysosomal pathway. However, the benefits of acupoint stimulation still need to be further explored in more high-quality studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Zhang
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Liuyi Chen
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.257143.60000 0004 1772 1285First Clinical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Guo
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Li
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingyu Zhang
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Liu
- grid.257143.60000 0004 1772 1285First Clinical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065 People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Fan
- grid.412879.10000 0004 0374 1074Department of Rehabilitation Physical Therapy Course, Faculty of Health Science, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka City, 5100293 Japan
| | - Tao Guo
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Siru Qin
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yadan Zhao
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhifang Xu
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zelin Chen
- grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617 People’s Republic of China ,grid.410648.f0000 0001 1816 6218National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300381 People’s Republic of China
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Yin Z, Li Y, Jiang C, Xia M, Chen Z, Zhang X, Zhao L, Liang F. Acupuncture for mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1091125. [PMID: 36686535 PMCID: PMC9853885 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1091125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is insufficient evidence to support the use of acupuncture for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and there is no consensus on its efficacy. This review aimed to determine the acupuncture effect in patients with MCI. Methods Relevant and potentially eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for MCI were obtained from four Chinese databases, four English databases, and additional resources up to 1 August 2022. The primary outcome was the improvement in overall cognitive function (OCF). Secondary outcomes were improved memory function (MF) and activities of daily living (ADLs). The revised Cochrane collaboration risk of bias (ROB) assessment tool (ROB 2.0) was applied to evaluate their methodological quality. The Review Manager software v 5.4 was used for analyses. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) 0.9.5.10 β software was used to estimate the required sample size and test the reliability of the pooled outcome. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. Results This meta-analysis included 11 RCTs with a total of 602 patients. The methodological quality of all trials was moderate. Low-quality evidence showed that acupuncture significantly improved OCF (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): mean difference (MD) = 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78-1.66; the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA): MD = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.47-1.97). In subgroup analyses, it was revealed that acupuncture significantly increased OCF in patients with MCI when compared to conventional medicine (CM) and sham acupuncture (SA). TSA's findings indicated that the evidence of improving OCF with acupuncture for patients with MCI was conclusive. Meanwhile, there is no statistical difference in the improvement of MF and ADL between acupuncture and CM. TSA showed that the evidence of improving MF and ADL for patients who had MCI and received acupuncture was inconclusive. The shreds of evidence of improving MF and ADL were ranked from low to critically low. Conclusion Acupuncture appears to be an effective clinical application method for improving OCF in patients with MCI. However, due to low-quality evidence, more relevant and high-quality research is needed in this field. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021291284, PROSPERO, No. CRD42021291284.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Yin
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Acupuncture Clinical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaqin Li
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Jiang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Deyang People's Hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Manze Xia
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Acupuncture Clinical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhenghong Chen
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Acupuncture Clinical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Acupuncture Clinical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Acupuncture Clinical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Ling Zhao ✉
| | - Fanrong Liang
- School of Acu-Mox and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,Acupuncture Clinical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China,Fanrong Liang ✉
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Jiang Y, Lin Y, Tan Y, Shen X, Liao M, Wang H, Lu N, Han F, Xu N, Tang C, Song J, Tao R. Electroacupuncture ameliorates cerebrovascular impairment in Alzheimer's disease mice via melatonin signaling. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 29:917-931. [PMID: 36382345 PMCID: PMC9928543 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cerebrovascular impairment contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, it still lacks effective intervention in clinical practice. Here, we investigated the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) in cerebrovascular repair in 3xTg-AD mice and its mechanism. METHODS 3xTg-AD mice were employed to evaluate the protective effect of EA at ST36 acupoint (EAST36). Behavioral tests were performed to assess neurological disorders. Laser speckle contrast imaging, immunostaining, and Western blot were applied to determine EAST36-boosted cerebrovascular repair. The mechanism was explored in 3xTg mice and endothelial cell cultures by melatonin signaling modulation. RESULTS EAST36 at 20/100 Hz effectively alleviated the olfactory impairment and anxiety behavior and boosted cerebrovascular repair in AD mice. EAST36 attenuated cerebral microvascular degeneration in AD mice by modulating endothelial cell viability and injury. Consequently, the Aβ deposits and neural damage in AD mice were reversed after EAST36. Mechanistically, we revealed that EAST36 restored melatonin levels in AD mice. Melatonin supplement mimicked the EAST36 effect on cerebrovascular protection in AD mice and endothelial cell cultures. Importantly, blockage of melatonin signaling by antagonist blunted EAST36-induced cerebrovascular recovery and subsequent neurological improvement. CONCLUSIONS These findings provided strong evidence to support EAST36 as a potential nonpharmacological therapy against cerebrovascular impairment in AD. Further study is necessary to better understand how EAST36 treatment drives melatonin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Jiang
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Yunshi Lin
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Yuhang Tan
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Xinkai Shen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Meihua Liao
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Huan Wang
- College of Life Science and TechnologyDalian UniversityDalianChina
| | - Nannan Lu
- Department of Neurology and Neurological SciencesStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Feng Han
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of PharmacyNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Nenggui Xu
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Chunzhi Tang
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Juxian Song
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Rongrong Tao
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and MoxibustionGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouChina
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8
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Yue J, Li XL, Gao RX, Zhang Q, Li A, Zhao WW, Li Y, Li SL. Research status, hotspots and trends of acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: A bibliometric analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30858. [PMID: 36181105 PMCID: PMC9524865 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acupuncture and moxibustion (AM) are utilized to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, no bibliometric analysis has explored this issue. Thus, this study investigated the status, hotspots and trends of AM in the treatment of AD. METHODS CiteSpace and VOSviewer softwares were used to analyze the literature on the AM for AD in the Web of Science Core Collection database. We analyzed the data of countries/regions, institutions, journals, authors, keywords, and cited references. RESULTS After removing duplicates, 193 articles were retrieved. The number of publications on this topic has increased gradually. The most productive and collaborative country was China (143 documents), followed by South Korea (19). The top 3 active academic institutions were Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Capital Medicine University, and Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine. The most productive journal was Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (13 documents), followed by the Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience (10), Medicine (10), and Neural Regeneration Research (10). The top 3 co-cited journals were Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (156 citations), Acupuncture Electro-therapeutics Research (152), and Acupuncture in Medicine (146). The research hotspots in this domain are dementia, memory, hippocampus, mouse models, and Parkinson's disease. Major frontiers are comparing the therapeutic effects of acupuncture and donepezil and electroacupuncture at different frequencies in this field. CONCLUSION This bibliometric study identified relevant hotspots and trends in research on AM in the treatment of AD, which can provide researchers with key information in this domain and help further explore new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhuan Yue
- Department of Tuina, Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shenzhen Jiuwei Chinese Medicine Clinic, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Li
- Division of CT and MRI, First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Rui-Xue Gao
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Qinhong Zhang
- Department of Tuina, Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shenzhen Jiuwei Chinese Medicine Clinic, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ang Li
- Sanofi-Aventis China Investment Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | | | - Yan Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Shu-Lin Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Shu-Lin Li, First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, No. 26 Heping Road, Xiangfang District, Harbin 150040, China (e-mail: )
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9
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Zhou R, Xiao L, Xiao W, Yi Y, Wen H, Wang H. Bibliometric review of 1992–2022 publications on acupuncture for cognitive impairment. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1006830. [PMID: 36226080 PMCID: PMC9549373 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1006830] [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: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the development context, research hotspots, and frontiers of acupuncture therapy for cognitive impairment (CI) from 1992 to 2022 by visualization analysis. Methods Articles about acupuncture therapy for cognitive impairment were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) until 1 March 2022. Basic information was collected by Excel 2007, and VOSviewer 1.6.17 was used to analyze the co-occurrence of countries, institutes, and authors. Co-citation maps of authors and references were analyzed by CiteSpace V.5.8.R3. In addition, CiteSpace was used to analyze keyword clusters and forecast research frontiers. Results A total of 279 articles were retrieved, including articles from 19 countries, 334 research institutes, and 101 academic journals. The most published country and institutes were the People's Republic of China (217) and the Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (40). Ronald C Petersen owned the highest co-citations (56). Keywords and co-cited references cluster showed the main research directions in this area, including “ischemic stroke,” “cerebral ischemia/reperfusion,” “mild cognitive impairment,” “Alzheimer's disease,” “vascular dementia,” “vascular cognitive impairment with no dementia,” “multi-infarct dementia,” “synaptic injury,” “functional MRI,” “glucose metabolism,” “NMDA,” “nuclear factor-kappa b pathway,” “neurotrophic factor,” “matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2),” “tumor necrosis factor-alpha,” “Bax,” “Caspase-3,” and “Noxa”. Trending keywords may indicate frontier topics, such as “randomized controlled trial,” “rat model,” and “meta-analysis.” Conclusion This research provides valuable information for the study of acupuncture. Diseases focus on mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD). Tauopathies with hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein as the main lesions also need to be paid attention to. The development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) will better explain the therapeutic effect of acupuncture treatment. The effect of acupuncture on a single point is more convincing, and acupuncture on Baihui (GV20) may be needed in the future. Finally, the implementation of high-quality multicenter randomized controlled trials (RCTs) requires increased collaboration among experts from multiple fields and countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runjin Zhou
- Medical College of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Ganzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lu Xiao
| | - Wei Xiao
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Ganzhou, China
| | - Yanfei Yi
- Ganzhou Cancer Hospital, Ganzhou, China
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A Review on Characteristics of Experimental Research on Acupuncture Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease: Study Design. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8243704. [PMID: 35855822 PMCID: PMC9288276 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8243704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background This review aims to systematically summarize and analyze recent high-quality animal research results about the use of acupuncture in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. This information will be useful in providing a reference for future experimental research and an experimental basis for the clinical use of acupuncture in the treatment of AD. Methods We utilized and referenced various electronic libraries from their inception to November 2021. Relevant information was reviewed and information such as the journal names, publication records, animal model selections and preparations, intervention measures, acupoint selections, detection methods, and detection indicators was extracted. Results. A total of 75 eligible studies were selected for additional review. Male SAMP8 mice, APP/PS1 double transgenic mice, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and Wistar rats were the four commonly used animal strains in the experiments. The animals were categorized as transgenic and surgical mouse models. Experimental interventions included manual acupuncture (MA), Electro-acupuncture (EA), Moxibustion, and EA combined with Moxibustion. A retention time of 20 min was the optimal timing for experimental studies, with 14 sessions chosen as the most common treatment time. EA was the most prescribed acupuncture treatment type with continuous wave, 2 Hz frequency, and 1 mA electric current selected as frequently used parameters. A total of 78 acupoint prescriptions were analyzed involving 21 acupoints. The top 3 combinations of common acupoints were GV20 ⟶ EX-HN3, GV20 ⟶ BL23, and GV20 ⟶ GV26. A total of 39 articles had positive drug control groups, sham acupuncture, and/or nonacupoint control groups. Furthermore, 10 types of behavioral tests, 29 detection methods, 178 evaluation indicators, and 18 tissue samples were included in the analysis. Conclusions By collating these high-quality research studies systematically and comprehensively, acupuncture was found to be a viable and effective treatment in AD animal models. In addition, when designing experiments, researchers could refer to the detailed data provided here to make better schemes and maybe conduct more investigations in unresearched areas.
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Association of Blood Amyloid Beta-Protein 1-42 with Poststroke Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:6552781. [PMID: 35402621 PMCID: PMC8986382 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6552781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background Increases in blood of amyloid beta-protein (Aβ) have been noted in patients with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Recent studies have shown that blood amyloid beta-protein 1-42 (Aβ1-42) level is closely related to poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI), which may be the influencing factor and even a predictor of PSCI. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the evidence for the association of cognitive impairment among PSCI. Methods PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial (CENTRAL), CNKI, and WanFang data were searched. Case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies that evaluated the association between blood Aβ1-42 and PSCI were included irrespective of language and date of publication. The outcomes of this review consisted of (1) any dementia, (2) any cognitive impairment, and (3) any cognitive impairment no dementia, which were assessed at least 3 months (90 days) after stroke. Exposure of interest was blood Aβ1-42 level (including serum and plasma). Results Of 617 records retrieved, 8 studies (6 case-control and 2 cohort studies) involving 931 stroke patients were included for further analysis. 8 studies with 931 subjects explored the correlation between Aβ1-42 and PSCI. PSCI was reported in 457 patients, and the pooled SMD of amyloid beta-protein 1-42 was -0.96 (95% CI -1.10~-0.82, I2 = 15%, P < 0.01). The results remained robust in sensitivity analysis adjusting for study quality, sample source, and cognitive scale score in analysis of studies, as well as in analysis adjusted for publication bias. Conclusions Blood Aβ1-42 level was significantly negatively related to the risk for PSCI, and more prospective studies with large sample size are needed to define a precise threshold value of blood Aβ1-42 level to predict PSCI in the future. This study is registered with PROSPERO, registration number: CRD42021246165.
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You F, Du X, Zhang T, Wang Y, Lv Y, Zeng L. High-frequency electroacupuncture improves endometrial receptivity via regulating cell adhesion molecules and leukemia inhibitory factor / signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathway. Bioengineered 2021; 12:10470-10479. [PMID: 34898339 PMCID: PMC8810124 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1997367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) impairs the endometrium receptivity during the implantation window, resulting in a lower clinical pregnancy rate and a higher abortion rate. Our study explored the effect of electroacupuncture on the endometrial receptivity of COH rats. Female rats were randomly divided into normal treatment (Normal), model treatment (Model), low-frequency electroacupuncture treatment (LF-EA) and high-frequency electroacupuncture treatment (HF-EA). Rats in the Model, LF-EA, and HF-EA treatment groups were injected with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to establish a model of COH rats. Compared with the Normal, the endometrial thickness, the number of pinopodes and amount of blastocyst implantation in the Model group were significantly reduced. Among them, the endometrial thickness and the amount of blastocyst implantation in the Model group were substantially decreased than those in the HF-EA group. High-frequency electroacupuncture treatment could markedly reduce the protein expression levels of E-cadherin, β-catenin and claudin-1 (CLDN1). During HF-EA treatment, the LIF/STAT3 signaling pathway of COH rats was enhanced. In conclusion, electroacupuncture could improve the endometrium receptivity and promote the blastocyst implantation in COH rats by reducing cell adhesion molecules and enhancing the LIF/STAT3 signaling pathway.Highlights High-frequency electroacupuncture could effectively improve endometrial receptivity and blastocyst implantation amount in COH rats.Electroacupuncture, especially high-frequency electroacupuncture, could significantly increase endometrial thickness and the number of pinopodes.High-frequency electroacupuncture significantly reduced the protein expression levels of E-cadherin, β-catenin and CLDN1 adhesion molecules in COH rats.High-frequency electroacupuncture could markedly enhance the LIF/STAT3 signaling pathway in COH rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang You
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Clinical College, Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xin Du
- Reproductive Centre,Women and Children’s Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Taiwei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology,The First Clinical College, Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Reproductive Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuxia Lv
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal and Child Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Clinical College, Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
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Electroacupuncture Improves Clearance of Amyloid- β through the Glymphatic System in the SAMP8 Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:9960304. [PMID: 34484327 PMCID: PMC8416373 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9960304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Memory loss and cognitive impairment characterize the neurodegenerative disorder, Alzheimer's disease (AD). Amyloid-β (Aβ) is the key factor that triggers the course of AD, and reducing the deposition of Aβ in the brain has been considered as a potential target for the treatment of AD. In clinical and animal studies, electroacupuncture (EA) has been shown to be an effective treatment for AD. In recent years, substantial evidence has accumulated suggesting the important role of the glymphatic system in Aβ clearance. Objective The purpose of this study was to explore whether EA modifies the accumulation of Aβ through the glymphatic system and may thus be applied to alleviate cognitive impairments. Methods Seven-month-old SAMP8 mice were randomized into a control group (Pc) and an electroacupuncture group (Pe). Age-matched SAMR1 mice were used as normal controls (Rc). Mice in the Pe group were stimulated on Baihui (GV20) and Yintang (GV29) for 10 min and then pricked at Shuigou (GV26) for ten times. EA treatment lasted for 8 weeks. In each week, EA would be applied once a day for the first five consecutive days and ceased at the remaining two days. After EA treatment, Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to evaluate the cognitive function; HE and Nissl staining was performed to observe the brain histomorphology; ELISA, contrast-enhanced MRI, and immunofluorescence were applied to explore the mechanisms underlying EA effects from Aβ accumulation, glymphatic system function, reactivity of astrocytes, and AQP4 polarization, respectively. Results This EA regime could improve cognition and alleviate neuropathological damage to brain tissue. And EA treatment might reduce Aβ accumulation, enhance paravascular influx in the glymphatic system, inhibit the reactivity of astrocytes, and improve AQP4 polarity. Conclusion EA treatment might reduce Aβ accumulation from the brain via improving clearance performance of the glymphatic system and thereby alleviating cognitive impairment.
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Sun RQ, Wang ZD, Zhao J, Wang S, Liu YZ, Liu SY, Li ZG, Wang X. Improvement of electroacupuncture on APP/PS1 transgenic mice in behavioral probably due to reducing deposition of Aβ in hippocampus. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2021; 304:2521-2530. [PMID: 34469051 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease for which currently no cure is available. Electroacupuncture (EA) has been widely used in China as an alternative therapeutic approach for neurological diseases. The cognitive decline in patients with AD has been reported to be closely related to the deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) in the hippocampus of the brain, and the Morris water maze (MWM) test is a widely used method for assessing the behavior of animal models. In this study, the MWM test was performed to evaluate the effects of EA treatment on cognitive function and memory, and the micro-positron emission tomography scan was used to assess the hippocampal Aβ deposition. The results showed that the cognitive function of APP/PS1 mice was significantly improved and the rate of [18F]AV-45 uptake was reduced in the EA group, compared with the AD group. Our study suggested that EA can exert a therapeutic effect in AD by improving spatial learning and memory and inhibiting the hippocampal Aβ deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Run-Quan Sun
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Dong Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Zhi Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Yuan Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Choi Y, Jung IC, Kim AR, Park HJ, Kwon O, Lee JH, Kim JH. Feasibility and Effect of Electroacupuncture on Cognitive Function Domains in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11060756. [PMID: 34200354 PMCID: PMC8228462 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although Electroacupuncture (EA) has been reported to be potentially effective for cognitive disorders, there is limited information about which domains of cognitive function can be improved by EA treatment. Sixty patients with MCI were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to groups to receive 24 sessions over 12 weeks of EA, sham EA, or usual care. In the EA group, electric stimulation was applied at bilateral PC6 and HT7. Various cognitive tests included in the Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery II (SNSB-II) were performed at baseline and post-treatment to explore effects of EA on five cognitive domains: attention, language, visuospatial function, memory, and frontal/executive function. Among 60 randomized participants (63.7 ± 7.1 years, 89.7% females), 45 (75%) completed the study. Of the five cognitive function domains of SNSB-II, the T score of visuospatial function showed a tendency to be higher in the EA group than in the usual care group at post-treatment assessment (mean difference: 10.16 (95% CI, 1.14, 19.18), Cohen’s d = 0.72, p = 0.0283). According to the results of this pilot study, the estimated effect size of EA on the visuospatial function of MCI patients compared to usual care was medium. Large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm effects of EA on cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Choi
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea; (Y.C.); (A.-R.K.); (H.-J.P.); (O.K.); (J.-H.L.)
| | - In-Chul Jung
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon 34520, Korea;
| | - Ae-Ran Kim
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea; (Y.C.); (A.-R.K.); (H.-J.P.); (O.K.); (J.-H.L.)
| | - Hyo-Ju Park
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea; (Y.C.); (A.-R.K.); (H.-J.P.); (O.K.); (J.-H.L.)
| | - Ojin Kwon
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea; (Y.C.); (A.-R.K.); (H.-J.P.); (O.K.); (J.-H.L.)
| | - Jun-Hwan Lee
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea; (Y.C.); (A.-R.K.); (H.-J.P.); (O.K.); (J.-H.L.)
- Korean Medicine Life Science, University of Science & Technology (UST), Campus of Korean Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea
| | - Joo-Hee Kim
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Sangji University, Wonju-si 26339, Korea
- Research Institute of Korean Medicine, Sangji University, Wonju-si 26339, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-33-741-9268
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Effects of Acupuncture on Oxidative Stress Amelioration via Nrf2/ARE-Related Pathways in Alzheimer and Parkinson Diseases. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6624976. [PMID: 33995547 PMCID: PMC8096560 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6624976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is responsible for the pathogeneses of various diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired DNA repair, and cellular damage followed by oxidative stress contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer disease (AD) and Parkinson disease (PD). Acupuncture is a traditional therapy that has been practiced for >3000 years in Asia. Many studies have demonstrated that acupuncture has notable antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) is crucial in regulating the redox equilibrium. Activated Nfr2 translocates into the nucleus, binds to the antioxidant response element (ARE), and initiates antioxidative enzyme transcription. In this review, we demonstrated the effects of acupuncture on oxidative stress amelioration in AD and PD animal models through Nrf2/ARE pathway activation and Nrf2/ARE-related pathway regulation. Thus, acupuncture could be a therapeutic option for AD and PD.
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Effect of Acupuncture Stimulation of Hegu (LI4) and Taichong (LR3) on the Resting-State Networks in Alzheimer's Disease: Beyond the Default Mode Network. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:8876873. [PMID: 33747074 PMCID: PMC7960059 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8876873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
It was reported that acupuncture could treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) with the potential mechanisms remaining unclear. The aim of the study is to explore the effect of the combination stimulus of Hegu (LI4) and Taichong (LR3) on the resting-state brain networks in AD, beyond the default network (DMN). Twenty-eight subjects including 14 AD patients and 14 healthy controls (HCs) matched by age, gender, and educational level were recruited in this study. After the baseline resting-state MRI scans, the manual acupuncture stimulation was performed for 3 minutes, and then, another 10 minutes of resting-state fMRI scans was acquired. In addition to the DMN, five other resting-state networks were identified by independent component analysis (ICA), including left frontal parietal network (lFPN), right frontal parietal network (rFPN), visual network (VN), sensorimotor network (SMN), and auditory network (AN). And the impaired connectivity in the lFPN, rFPN, SMN, and VN was found in AD patients compared with those in HCs. After acupuncture, significantly decreased connectivity in the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG) of rFPN (P = 0.007) was identified in AD patients. However, reduced connectivity in the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) (P = 0.047) and left superior frontal gyrus (SFG) (P = 0.041) of lFPN and some regions of the SMN (the left inferior parietal lobula (P = 0.004), left postcentral gyrus (PoCG) (P = 0.001), right PoCG (P = 0.032), and right MFG (P = 0.010)) and the right MOG of VN (P = 0.003) was indicated in HCs. In addition, after controlling for the effect of acupuncture on HCs, the functional connectivity of the right cerebellum crus I, left IFG, and left angular gyrus (AG) of lFPN showed to be decreased, while the left MFG of IFPN and the right lingual gyrus of VN increased in AD patients. These findings might have some reference values for the interpretation of the combination stimulus of Hegu (LI4) and Taichong (LR3) in AD patients, which could deepen our understanding of the potential mechanisms of acupuncture on AD.
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He C, Huang ZS, Yu CC, Wang XS, Jiang T, Wu M, Kong LH. Preventive electroacupuncture ameliorates D-galactose-induced Alzheimer's disease-like inflammation and memory deficits, probably via modulating the microbiota-gut-brain axis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:341-348. [PMID: 33995945 PMCID: PMC8087854 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2021.49147.11256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to observe the effects of preventive electroacupuncture (EA) on the microbiota-gut-brain axis and spatial learning and memory deficits and to investigate the possible mechanism using D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS D-gal was intraperitoneally injected to establish the aging model. We used Morris water maze to detect spatial learning and memory function of rats. RT-PCR was applied to test targeted gut microbes. The expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway proteins were detected by Western blotting. ELISA was employed to evaluate the level of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), diamine oxidase (DAO) and S-100β. Additionally, we observed ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1) expression in the hippocampal CA1 area by immunofluorescence. RESULTS Morris water maze test showed decreased mean escape latency and increased target quadrant time after EA treatment. The gut microbiota composition has been modified in EA treated rats. Molecular examination indicated that expression of ZO-1 was improved and the the concentration of LPS in blood and hippocampus were reduced in EA treated rats. Further, we observed an inhibition of activated microglia and TLR4/NF-κB pathway in EA groups. CONCLUSION Preventive EA may alleviate the impairments of the microbiota-gut-brain axis and spatial learning and memory in aging, and the mechanism may be related to the inhibition of TLR4/NF-kB signaling pathway. The combination of acupoints GV20 and ST36 can enhance the therapeutic effect in aging rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan He
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhong-Sheng Huang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chao-Chao Yu
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital
- The 4 Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xue-Song Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Miao Wu
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of TCM, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li-Hong Kong
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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The Role of Acupuncture Improving Cognitive Deficits due to Alzheimer's Disease or Vascular Diseases through Regulating Neuroplasticity. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:8868447. [PMID: 33505460 PMCID: PMC7815402 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8868447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia affects millions of elderly worldwide causing remarkable costs to society, but effective treatment is still lacking. Acupuncture is one of the complementary therapies that has been applied to cognitive deficits such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), while the underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic efficiency remain elusive. Neuroplasticity is defined as the ability of the nervous system to adapt to internal and external environmental changes, which may support some data to clarify mechanisms how acupuncture improves cognitive impairments. This review summarizes the up-to-date and comprehensive information on the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment on neurogenesis and gliogenesis, synaptic plasticity, related regulatory factors, and signaling pathways, as well as brain network connectivity, to lay ground for fully elucidating the potential mechanism of acupuncture on the regulation of neuroplasticity and promoting its clinical application as a complementary therapy for AD and VCI.
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20
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Yu CC, Du YJ, Wang SQ, Liu LB, Shen F, Wang L, Lin YF, Kong LH. Experimental Evidence of the Benefits of Acupuncture for Alzheimer's Disease: An Updated Review. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:549772. [PMID: 33408601 PMCID: PMC7779610 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.549772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As the global population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is also increasing. At present, there are no widely recognized drugs able to ameliorate the cognitive dysfunction caused by AD. The failure of several promising clinical trials in recent years has highlighted the urgent need for novel strategies to both prevent and treat AD. Notably, a growing body of literature supports the efficacy of acupuncture for AD. In this review, we summarize the previously reported mechanisms of acupuncture's beneficial effects in AD, including the ability of acupuncture to modulate Aβ metabolism, tau phosphorylation, neurotransmitters, neurogenesis, synapse and neuron function, autophagy, neuronal apoptosis, neuroinflammation, cerebral glucose metabolism, and brain responses. Taken together, these findings suggest that acupuncture provides therapeutic effects for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Chao Yu
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yan-Jun Du
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu-Qin Wang
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Le-Bin Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hubei Rongjun Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Shen
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan-Fang Lin
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The Fourth Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li-Hong Kong
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
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21
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Yu CC, He C, Du YJ, Gao S, Lin YF, Wang SQ, Wang L, Wang J, Wang XS, Jiang T, Kong LH. Preventive electroacupuncture reduces cognitive deficits in a rat model of D-galactose-induced aging. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:916-923. [PMID: 33229729 PMCID: PMC8178792 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.297090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture can reduce cognitive deficits in Alzheimer’s disease. However, whether electroacupuncture can prevent or alleviate the cognitive deficits in animal models of aging remains poorly understood. Studies have shown that disordered epigenetic modifications play a critical role in age-related cognitive decline. Therefore, we hypothesized that preventive electroacupuncture might improve cognitive functions during aging by regulating epigenetic modifications. A rat model of aging was produced by intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kg D-galactose for 8 weeks. Baihui and Shenshu acupoints were stimulated by electroacupuncture for 8 weeks from the first day of D-galactose administration. Preventive electroacupuncture alleviated memory impairment, decreased tau hyperphosphorylation, and reduced glycogen synthase kinase-3β protein and mRNA expression levels in the brainstem dorsal raphe nucleus, where intracellular neurofibrillary tangle lesions first occur. In addition, the DNA methylation level in the promoter region of the glycogen synthase kinase-3β gene was increased. The effects of preventive electroacupuncture were stronger than those of preventive acupuncture. Intraperitoneal injection of 0.4 mg/kg 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine, an inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase that blocks epigenetic modifications, antagonized the effects of preventive electroacupuncture. Our results suggest that preventive electroacupuncture treatment alleviates cognitive impairment in aging rats probably by affecting the epigenetic modification of the glycogen synthase kinase-3β gene in the dorsal raphe nucleus. This study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, China (approval No. HUCMS201712001) on November 28, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Chao Yu
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital; The 4th Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chuan He
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yan-Jun Du
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Shan Gao
- Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Wuhan Hospital of Integrated Chinese & Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yuan-Fang Lin
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital; The 4th Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shu-Qin Wang
- Department of Tuina, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital; The 4th Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Wuhan Hospital of Integrated Chinese & Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xue-Song Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Li-Hong Kong
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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22
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Chen D, Zhang Y, Wang C, Wang X, Shi J, Zhang J, Guan W, Li B, Fan W. Modulation of hippocampal dopamine and synapse-related proteins by electroacupuncture improves memory deficit caused by sleep deprivation. Acupunct Med 2020; 38:343-351. [PMID: 32370535 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420902147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep is crucial for proper functioning of the brain, whereas lack of sleep is very common in modern society and can cause memory impairment. Hence, it is of great significance to find effective methods to intervene in the pathogenesis of memory impairment. OBJECTIVE We designed this study to explore the mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the deficits caused by sleep deprivation (SD). METHODS In this study, we first utilized the modified multiple platform method (MMPM) to establish a rat model of SD, which was followed by use of the Y-maze and Morris water maze (MWM) to assess the performance of rats following EA treatment. RESULTS We found that EA at GV20 and ST36 significantly decreased the number of error reactions, increased the number of active avoidance responses in the Y-maze and shortened the latency of finding the platform in the MWM test in SD + EA versus untreated SD groups. Moreover, EA treatment partially restored SD-induced reductions in hippocampal dopamine (DA) content and significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated (p) synapsin I, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) II, and tyrosine hydroxylase, which are related to the synthesis and release of DA. CONCLUSIONS In summary, we it appears that EA at GV20 and ST36 may improve SD-induced memory deficits by restoring the quantity of DA in the hippocampus, which is related to activation of CaMK II, synapsin I, and tyrosine hydroxylase. EA may have potential as an alternative therapy for SD and could improve learning and memory deficits among those suffering from sleep deficiency, although this needs verification by prospective clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danmei Chen
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunpeng Zhang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cuiting Wang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaokun Wang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jimin Shi
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihong Zhang
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wencai Guan
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Li
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Research Center for Clinical Medicine, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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23
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Preventive Electroacupuncture Ameliorates D-Galactose-Induced Alzheimer's Disease-Like Pathology and Memory Deficits Probably via Inhibition of GSK3 β/mTOR Signaling Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:1428752. [PMID: 32382276 PMCID: PMC7195631 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1428752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture has been practiced to treat neuropsychiatric disorders for a thousand years in China. Prevention of disease by acupuncture and moxibustion treatment, guided by the theory of Chinese acupuncture, gradually draws growing attention nowadays and has been investigated in the role of the prevention and treatment of mental disorders such as AD. Despite its well-documented efficacy, its biological action remains greatly invalidated. Here, we sought to observe whether preventive electroacupuncture during the aging process could alleviate learning and memory deficits in D-galactose-induced aged rats. We found that preventive electroacupuncture at GV20-BL23 acupoints during aging attenuated the hippocampal loss of dendritic spines, ameliorated neuronal microtubule injuries, and increased the expressions of postsynaptic PSD95 and presynaptic SYN, two important synapse-associated proteins involved in synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, we observed an inhibition of GSK3β/mTOR pathway activity accompanied by a decrease in tau phosphorylation level and prompted autophagy activity induced by preventive electroacupuncture. Our results suggested that preventive electroacupuncture can prevent and alleviate memory deficits and ameliorate synapse and neuronal microtubule damage in aging rats, which was probably via the inhibition of GSK3β/mTOR signaling pathway. It may provide new insights for the identification of prevention strategies of AD.
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24
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Mechanisms of Electroacupuncture on Alzheimer’s Disease: A Review of Animal Studies. Chin J Integr Med 2020; 26:473-480. [DOI: 10.1007/s11655-020-3092-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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25
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Huang X, Huang K, Li Z, Bai D, Hao Y, Wu Q, Yi W, Xu N, Pan Y, Zhang L. Electroacupuncture improves cognitive deficits and insulin resistance in an OLETF rat model of Al/D-gal induced aging model via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Brain Res 2020; 1740:146834. [PMID: 32304687 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.146834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on cognitive function and insulin resistance (IR) in an Al/D-gal-induced aging model for Alzheimer's disease (AD) using Ostuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats. The Al/D-gal-OLETF rats for AD were randomly divided into the EA and non-EA groups. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM). The morphology of the hippocampal neurons was observed using hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) staining. Aβ and total Tau in the hippocampus and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were detected using western blotting (WB) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Fasting blood glucose (FPG) was determined using the glucose oxidase method. Plasma fasting insulin (FINS), serum C-peptide (C-P), and CSF insulin were detected using ELISA. The expression of the genes and proteins in the PI3K signaling pathway was detected using quantitative real-time PCR and WB. After EA intervention, the hippocampal Aβ and total Tau protein levels, body weight, FPG, FINS, and C-P were significantly decreased. The MWM showed that the percentage of time in the target quadrant of the EA group was elevated in the probe test. The protein levels of p-IRS1, p-IRS2, IDE, and p-GSK3β were significantly increased, while p-PI3K-p85α and p-Akt were decreased. In conclusion, EA improves cognitive function and insulin resistance in rat models of AD. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is involved in those changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Huang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Kangbai Huang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Zhaowei Li
- College of Sport and Healthy, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Dongyan Bai
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Qinglong Wu
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Wei Yi
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Nenggui Xu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Youcan Pan
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
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26
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Verum- versus Sham-Acupuncture on Alzheimer's Disease (AD) in Animal Models: A Preclinical Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:5901573. [PMID: 32337259 PMCID: PMC7150729 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5901573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common health condition affecting senile people and leads to severe cognitive dysfunctions. Acupuncture has been shown to be a possible alternative natural remedy for AD in some animal studies. Objective To perform a systematic review to identify the effect of verum-acupuncture compared with sham-acupuncture on learning and memory performance among animal models of AD. Methods Experimental animal studies of treating AD via verum- and sham- acupuncture were searched in nine electronic databases, including Sciverse ScienceDirect, PubMed, Springer, Ebsco Medline, AMED, EMBASE (Elsevier), Scopus (Elsevier), PsycINFO (ProQuest), and OVID from the dates of the databases' inception to June 2019. The Morris water maze test was considered as an outcome measure. The software Revman 5.3 and Stata 16.0 were used to conduct the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was examined by using I2 statistics. The publication bias was assessed via Begg's test by Stata 16.0. Results Twelve studies involving 229 animals met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies had a moderate quality according to SYRCLE's risk of bias tool for animal studies. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that verum-acupuncture could reduce the escape latency (MD = −12.90, 95% CI (−17.08, −8.71), p < 0.001) and increase the time spent in the original platform quadrant (MD = 7.28, 95% CI (4.23, 10.33), p < 0.001) and frequency of the crossing former platform (MD = 2.01, 95% CI (1.53, 2.50), p < 0.001) compared with the sham-acupuncture. Conclusions Acupuncture is effective in improving cognitive functions in AD animal models, and this benefit is more than just a placebo effect. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm the findings.
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27
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Acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) for Experimental Sepsis: A Systematic Review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:3620741. [PMID: 32215037 PMCID: PMC7081026 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3620741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Background Sepsis is a global major health problem with high mortality rates. More effective therapy is needed for treating sepsis. Acupuncture has been used for various diseases, including severe infection, in China for more than 2,000 years. Previous studies reported that acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) might be effective in treating sepsis, but the efficacy and the quality of evidence remain unclear since there is no systematic review on acupuncture at ST36 for sepsis. Methods Seven databases were searched from the inception of each database up to May 2019. Ultimately, 54 studies using acupuncture at ST36 for the treatment of experimental sepsis were identified in both English and Chinese literature with systematic review procedures. Results Acupuncture might be useful in reducing injuries induced by sepsis in cardiac, lung, kidney, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and immune system. Its potential mechanisms for antisepsis might include reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving microcirculatory disturbance, and maintaining the immune balance mediated by dopamine. However, the positive findings should be interpreted with caution due to poor methodological quality and publication bias. Conclusion Acupuncture at ST36 might be a promising complementary strategy for controlling sepsis inflammation, yet further studies are needed.
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28
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Ho YS, Zhao FY, Yeung WF, Wong GTC, Zhang HQ, Chang RCC. Application of Acupuncture to Attenuate Immune Responses and Oxidative Stress in Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction: What Do We Know So Far? OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:9641904. [PMID: 32148660 PMCID: PMC7044481 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9641904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common sequela following surgery and hospitalization. The prevention and management of POCD are important during clinical practice. POCD more commonly affects elderly patients who have undergone major surgery and can result in major decline in quality of life for both patients and their families. Acupuncture has been suggested as an effective intervention for many neurological disorders. In recent years, there are increasing interest in the use of acupuncture to prevent and treat POCD. In this review, we summarized the clinical and preclinical evidence of acupuncture on POCD using a narrative approach and discussed the potential mechanisms involved. The experimental details and findings of studies were summarized in tables and analyzed. Most of the clinical studies suggested that acupuncture before surgery could reduce the incidence of POCD and reduce the levels of systematic inflammatory markers. However, their reliability is limited by methodological flaws. Animal studies showed that acupuncture reduced cognitive impairment and the associated pathology after various types of surgery. It is possible that acupuncture modulates inflammation, oxidative stress, synaptic changes, and other cellular events to mitigate POCD. In conclusion, acupuncture is a potential intervention for POCD. More clinical studies with good research design are required to confirm its effectiveness. At the same time, findings from animal studies will help reveal the protective mechanisms, in which systematic inflammation is likely to play a major role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuen-Shan Ho
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fei-Yi Zhao
- Department of Nursing, School of International Medical Technology, Shanghai Sanda University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wing-Fai Yeung
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gordon Tin-Chun Wong
- Department of Anaesthesiology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hong-Qi Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Raymond Chuen-Chung Chang
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Biomedical Sciences, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
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29
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Mao L, Chen XH, Zhuang JH, Li P, Xu YX, Zhao YC, Ma YJ, He B, Yin Y. Relationship between β-amyloid protein 1-42, thyroid hormone levels and the risk of cognitive impairment after ischemic stroke. World J Clin Cases 2020; 8:76-87. [PMID: 31970172 PMCID: PMC6962069 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i1.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is not only a common consequence of stroke but also an important factor for adverse prognosis of patients. Biochemical indicators such as blood lipids and blood pressure are affected by many factors, and the ability of evaluating the progress of patients with PSCI is insufficient. Therefore, it is necessary to find sensitive markers for predicting the progress of patients and avoiding PSCI. Recent studies have shown that β-amyloid protein 1-42 (Aβ1-42) and thyroid hormone levels are closely related to PSCI, which may be the influencing factors of PSCI, but there are few related studies.
AIM To investigate the relationship between serum levels of Aβ and thyroid hormones in acute stage and PSCI and its predicted value.
METHODS A total of 195 patients with acute cerebral infarction confirmed from June 2016 to January 2018 were enrolled in this study. Baseline data and serological indicators were recorded to assess cognitive function of patients. All patients were followed up for 1 year. Their cognitive functions were evaluated within 1 wk, 3 mo, 6 mo and 1 yr after stroke. At the end of follow-up, the patients were divided into PSCI and non-PSCI according to Montreal cognitive assessment score, and the relationship between biochemical indexes and the progression of PSCI was explored.
RESULTS Compared with patients with non-PSCI, the levels of Aβ1-42, triiodothyronine (T3) and free thyroxin were lower in the patients with PSCI. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed that the overall content of Aβ1-42 and T3 in PSCI was also lower than that of the non-PSCI patients. Further analysis revealed that Aβ1-42 (r = 0.348), T3 (r = 0.273) and free thyroxin (r = 0.214) were positively correlated with disease progression (P < 0.05), suggesting that these indicators have the potential to predict disease progression and outcome. Cox regression analysis showed that Aβ1-42 and T3 were important factors of PSCI. Then stratified analysis showed that the lower the Aβ1-42 and T3, the higher risk of PSCI in patients who were aged over 70, female and illiterate.
CONCLUSION Aβ1-42 and T3 have the ability to predict the progression of PSCI, which is expected to be applied clinically to reduce the incidence of PSCI and improve the quality of life of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Mao
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai First People’s Hospital Baoshan Branch, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Xiao-Han Chen
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Jian-Hua Zhuang
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yi-Xin Xu
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yu-Chen Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yue-Jin Ma
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - You Yin
- Department of Neurology, Changzheng Hospital, the PLA Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
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30
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Jang JH, Kim YK, Jung WM, Kim HK, Song EM, Kim HY, Oh JY, Park JY, Ryu Y, Song MY, Park HJ. Acupuncture Improves Comorbid Cognitive Impairments Induced by Neuropathic Pain in Mice. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:995. [PMID: 31616240 PMCID: PMC6763606 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that neuropathic pain is frequently accompanied by cognitive impairments, which aggravate the quality of life of chronic pain patients. Here, we investigated whether acupuncture treatments can improve cognitive dysfunction as well as allodynia induced by neuropathic pain in mice. One week after the left partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL), acupuncture treatments on the acupoints GB30-GB34 (AP1), HT7-GV20 (AP2), or control points (CP) were performed for 4 weeks. Notably, the significant attenuations of mechanical allodynia and cognitive impairment were observed in the AP1 group, but not in PSNL, AP2, or CP groups. A random decision forest classifier based on the pain and cognitive functions displayed that the acupuncture group was clearly segregated from the other groups. We also demonstrated that acupuncture restored the reduced field excitatory post-synaptic potentials and was able to elevate the expression levels of glutamate receptors (NR2B and GluR1) in the hippocampus. Moreover, the expressions of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and synaptic proteins (pPSD-95 and pSyn-1) were enhanced by acupuncture treatment. These results suggest that acupuncture can enhance hippocampal long-term action through the regulation of the synaptic efficacy and that acupuncture may provide a viable option for managing both pain and cognitive functions associated with chronic neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hwan Jang
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 PLUS Korean Medicine Science Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yu-Kang Kim
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Hyung-Kyu Kim
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Eun-Mo Song
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hee-Young Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Ju-Young Oh
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 PLUS Korean Medicine Science Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji-Yeun Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Yeonhee Ryu
- Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Mi-Yeon Song
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hi-Joon Park
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Korean Medical Science, Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,BK21 PLUS Korean Medicine Science Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
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31
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Sha R, Zhang B, Han X, Peng J, Zheng C, Zhang F, Huang X. Electroacupuncture Alleviates Ischemic Brain Injury by Inhibiting the miR-223/NLRP3 Pathway. Med Sci Monit 2019; 25:4723-4733. [PMID: 31237865 PMCID: PMC6607941 DOI: 10.12659/msm.917213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Electroacupuncture (EA) has been commonly used to treat stroke in China. However, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. The present study investigated the neuroprotective effects of EA in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats and elucidated the possible anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Material/Methods In this study, modified neurological severity scoring (mNSS) was used to assess neurological deficits, and TTC staining and brain water content were measured to evaluate the degree of brain damage. HE staining, Nissl staining, and TUNEL staining were employed to evaluate apoptotic neuronal death. Molecular biological methods were used to measure the levels of miR-233, NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the peri-infarct cortex. Results Our results showed that EA treatment significantly decreased the neurological deficit score and infarct volume of MCAO rats. The level of miR-223 was increased, while the levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18 were decreased in the peri-infarct cortex of EA-treated MCAO rats. However, the neuroprotective effect of EA was partially blocked by antagomir-223. Conclusions These data suggest that EA treatment can alleviate neuroinflammation by inhibiting the miR-223/NLRP3 pathway, thus playing a neuroprotective role in MCAO in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Sha
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaohua Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Jiaojiao Peng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Caixia Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Fengxia Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaolin Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China (mainland)
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