One hundred and five patients with primary unipolar depression were randomly divided into three groups： drug group （Seroxat administration）, acupuncture group （Seroxat plus acupunc- ture）, and electroacupuncture ...One hundred and five patients with primary unipolar depression were randomly divided into three groups： drug group （Seroxat administration）, acupuncture group （Seroxat plus acupunc- ture）, and electroacupuncture group （Seroxat plus acupuncture plus electroacupuncture）. Patients＇ symptoms were evaluated using a psychometric questionnaire, the Symptom Check- list-90, before intervention and after 2, 4, 6 and 10 weeks of treatment. The individual factor scores and the total score from the Symptom Checldist-90 reduced in all three groups as treat- ment progressed. In the acupuncture and electroacupuncture groups, the total score and the factor scores for obsessive-compulsive symptoms, depression, and anxiety were significantly lower than those in the drug group. There was no significant difference in the factor scores or total scores between the acupuncture and electroacupuncture groups. Some factor scores in the electroacupuncture group, such as somatization, depression, hostility, and phobic anxiety, were increased at 10 weeks compared with the respective score immediately after the course of electroacupuncture at 6 weeks. Our findings indicate that administration of Seroxat alone or in combination with acupuncture/electroacupuncture can produce a significant effect in patients with primary unipolar depression. Furthermore, acupuncture/electroacupuncture has a rapid onset of therapeutic effect and produces a noticeable improvement in obsessive-compulsive, de- pressive and anxiety symptoms.展开更多
Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide,and electroacupuncture has a long history of use in stroke treatment.This meta-analysis and systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of electroa...Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide,and electroacupuncture has a long history of use in stroke treatment.This meta-analysis and systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture and explore its potential mechanisms in animal models of ischemic stroke.The PubMed,EMBASE,Web of Science,CENTRAL,and CINAHL databases were comprehensively searched up to May 1,2024.This review included articles on preclinical investigations of the efficacy and mechanisms of electroacupuncture in treating ischemic stroke.Data from 70 eligible studies were analyzed in Stata 18.0,using a random-effects model to calculate the standardized mean difference(Hedge’s g).The risk of bias was assessed using RevMan 5.4 software,and the quality of evidence was rated according to the Grading of Recommendations,Assessment,Development,and Evaluation(GRADE)system.Subgroup analyses were conducted to test the consistency of the results and sensitivity analyses were used to assess their robustness.The quality assessment revealed that most studies adequately handled incomplete data and selective reporting.However,several methodological limitations were identified:only 4 studies demonstrated a low risk of allocation concealment,26 achieved a low risk of outcome assessment bias,and 9 had a high risk of randomization bias.Additionally,there was an unclear risk regarding participant blinding and other methodological aspects.The GRADE assessment rated 12 outcomes as moderate quality and 6 as low quality.The mechanisms of electroacupuncture treatment for ischemic stroke can be categorized as five primary pathways:(1)Electroacupuncture significantly reduced infarct volume and apoptotic cell death(P<0.01)in ischemic stroke models;(2)electroacupuncture significantly decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory factors(P<0.01)while increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory factors(P=0.02);(3)electroacupuncture reduced the levels of oxidative stress indicators(P<0.01)and enhanced the expression of antioxidant enzymes(P<0.01);(4)electroacupuncture significantly promoted nerve regeneration(P<0.01);and(5)electroacupuncture influenced blood flow remodeling(P<0.01)and angiogenesis(P<0.01).Subgroup analyses indicated that electroacupuncture was most effective in the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model(P<0.01)and in post-middle cerebral artery occlusion intervention(P<0.01).Dispersive waves were found to outperform continuous waves with respect to neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory effects(P<0.01),while scalp acupoints demonstrated greater efficacy than body acupoints(P<0.01).The heterogeneity among the included studies was minimal,and sensitivity analyses indicated stable results.Their methodological quality was generally satisfactory.In conclusion,electroacupuncture is effective in treating cerebral ischemia by modulating cell apoptosis,oxidative stress,inflammation,stroke-induced nerve regeneration,blood flow remodeling,and angiogenesis.The efficacy of electroacupuncture may be influenced by factors such as the middle cerebral artery occlusion model,the timing of intervention onset,waveform,and acupoint selection.Despite the moderate to low quality of evidence,these findings suggest that electroacupuncture has clinical potential for improving outcomes in ischemic stroke.展开更多
BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)is a prevalent and debilitating complication following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer.Evidence-based interventions for the concurrent psychological burde...BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)is a prevalent and debilitating complication following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer.Evidence-based interventions for the concurrent psychological burden are limited.Electroacupuncture has been proposed as a potential adjunctive therapy,but its psychological benefits remain inadequately studied.AIM To investigate the therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture on emotional recovery and gastrointestinal function in patients with moderate to severe LARS,and to explore its potential advantages in psychologically vulnerable subgroups.METHODS We conducted a retrospective,controlled study involving 100 patients with moderate to severe LARS(LARS score≥21)treated at two tertiary hospitals in China between January 2022 and December 2024.Patients received either standard postoperative care alone(n=50)or in combination with a standardized 4-week electroacupuncture protocol(n=50).Psychological and functional outcomes were assessed using validated instruments including Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale(HADS),Body Image Scale(BIS),General Self-Efficacy Scale,Perceived Social Support Scale(PSSS),LARS score,and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 at four time points.The primary endpoint was emotional remission,defined as a≥3-point reduction in HADS-Anxiety subscale(HADS-A).Analyses included repeated-measures comparisons,Kaplan-Meier survival curves,Cox regression models,and subgroup-interaction testing.RESULTS At baseline,demographic,surgical,and psychosocial characteristics were comparable among groups.By week 4,patients receiving electroacupuncture demonstrated significantly greater reductions in anxiety(HADS-A:4.8±2.6 vs 7.3±3.0;P<0.001),depression,and body-image disturbance(BIS:8.7±3.6 vs 11.9±4.2;P<0.001),alongside enhanced coping capacity(Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced),perceived social support(PSSS),and bowel function(LARS score).Emotional remission-defined as a≥3-point HADS-A reduction-was achieved more rapidly in the electroacupuncture group,as confirmed by Kaplan-Meier analysis(log-rank P<0.001;odds ratio=4.7).Multivariate Cox regression identified higher baseline LARS and BIS scores as independent predictors of delayed emotional recovery.Subgroup analyses revealed significantly amplified treatment benefits in patients with high baseline anxiety(HADS-A≥8),elevated body-image disturbance(BIS≥12),or low perceived social support(PSSS<60),with consistent interaction effects(P for interaction<0.05 across subgroups).CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture may accelerate emotional recovery and improve functional and psychosocial outcomes in patients with LARS.Its integration into postoperative care may offer particular benefits for psychologically vulnerable subgroups.展开更多
Objective To observe mechanisms of electroacupuncture （EA） on treating Parkinson＇ s disease （PD）. Methods Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups： a normal control group （Norm）, a sham operation gro...Objective To observe mechanisms of electroacupuncture （EA） on treating Parkinson＇ s disease （PD）. Methods Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups： a normal control group （Norm）, a sham operation group （Sham）, a model group （Mod） and an electroacupuncture （EA） group. EA at ＂Fengfu＂ （风府 GV16） and ＂Taichong＂ （太冲 LR 3） was applied once daily for 2 weeks in Group EA, and no treatment was given to the animals in the other three groups. PD model was established by using 6-hydroxydopamine. Numbers of tyrosine hydroxylase （TH）, tumor necrosis factor-alpha （TNF-α）and interleukin-1 beta （IL-1β） positive reactive cells in substantia nigra （SN） were counted by using immunohistochemical methods. Results The total TH positive neurons in Group Mod were obviously less than those in Group Norm and Group Sham （P〈0.01）, and the numbers of TNF-α and IL-1β positive cells in Group Mod increased more significantly than those in Group Norm, and Group Sham （P〈0.01）. The total TH positive neurons in Group EA were obviously more than those in Group Mod （P〈0.01）, and the numbers of TNF-α and IL-1β positive cells in Group EA were obviously less than those in Group Mod （P〈0.01）, indicating that EA could markedly lower the contents of such pre-inflammatory factors like TNF-α and IL-1β in SN of experimental rats with PD. Conclusion EA may provide its protective functions on dopaminergic neurons by way of alleviating inflammatory reactions in SN of rats with PD.展开更多
Objective:Comorbid pain and depression are common but remain difficult to treat.Electroacupuncture(EA)can effectively improve symptoms of depression and relieve pain,but its neural mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,...Objective:Comorbid pain and depression are common but remain difficult to treat.Electroacupuncture(EA)can effectively improve symptoms of depression and relieve pain,but its neural mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging(rs-fMRI)to detect cerebral changes after initiating a mouse pain model via constriction of the infraorbital nerve(CION)and then treating these animals with EA.Methods:Forty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into 4 groups:control,CION model,EA,and sham acupuncture(without needle insertion).EA was performed on the acupoints Baihui(GV20)and Zusanli(ST36)for 20 min,once a day for 10 consecutive days.The mechanical withdrawal threshold was tested3 days after the surgery and every 3 days after the intervention.The depressive behavior was evaluated with the tail suspension test,open-field test,elevated plus maze(EPM),sucrose preference test,and marble burying test.The rs-fMRI was used to detect the cerebral changes of the functional connectivity(FC)in the mice following EA treatment.Results:Compared with the CION group,the mechanical withdrawal threshold increased in the EA group at the end of the intervention(P<0.05);the immobility time in tail suspension test decreased(P<0.05);and the times of the open arm entry and the open arm time in the EPM increased(both P<0.001).There was no difference in the sucrose preference or marble burying tests(both P>0.05).The fMRI results showed that EA treatment downregulated the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and regional homogeneity values,while these indicators were elevated in brain regions including the amygdala,hippocampus and cerebral cortex in the CION model for comorbid pain and depression.Selecting the amygdala as the seed region,we found that the FC was higher in the CION group than in the control group.Meanwhile,EA treatment was able to decrease the FC between the amygdala and other brain regions including the caudate putamen,thalamus,and parts of the cerebral cortex.Conclusion:EA can downregulate the abnormal activation of neurons in the amygdala and improve its FC with other brain regions,thus exerting analgesic and antidepressant effects.Please cite this article as:Yin X,Zeng XL,Lin JJ,Xu WQ,Cui KY,Guo XT,Li W,Xu SF.Brain functional changes following electroacupuncture in a mouse model of comorbid pain and depression:A restingstate functional magnetic resonance imaging study.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture(EA)at scalp motor area for treating post-stroke wrist dyskinesia and its influence on the function of wrist movement-related agonistic muscles.METHODS:A randomi...OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture(EA)at scalp motor area for treating post-stroke wrist dyskinesia and its influence on the function of wrist movement-related agonistic muscles.METHODS:A randomized,single-blind,controlled clinical trial was conducted.Sixty-six patients undergoing post-stroke wrist dyskinesia were enrolled and randomized 1:1 to EA or control group.Patients in the control group received manual acupuncture in the scalp motor area(MS 6)on the lesion side.The same acupoint was selected to accept EA stimulation in the EA group.All patients were treated six times a week for three weeks.The primary outcome was the Chinese Stroke Scale(CSS)score.The secondary outcomes included upper limb-related Barthel Index(BI)score,active range of motion(AROM)of the wrist joint,and root mean square(RMS)of the four agonistic muscles associated with wrist motion on the hemiplegic side of patients,i.e.,the extensor carpi radialis longus(ECRL),extensor digitorum(ED),flexor carpi radialis(FCR)and flexor carpi ulnaris(FCU).The above indicators were measured before and after three weeks of treatment.RESULTS:After 3-week treatment,the CSS score and AROM of wrist dorsiflexion of the EA group were better than those in the control group(P=0.038,P=0.047).The differences between the two groups of BI scores and AROM of wrist flexion were not significant(P>0.05).All RMS of the EA group were higher than those in the control group(ECRL:P=0.047,ED:P=0.048,FCR:P=0.049,FCU:P=0.047).The total effective rate in the EA group was 87.50%(28/32),which was higher than that in the control group(77.42%,24/31,P=0.048).CONCLUSION:EA stimulation of the scalp motor area can promote the recovery of the strength and function of the agonistic muscles related to wrist movement and effectively improve post-stroke wrist dyskinesia.展开更多
Pain is a subjective and unpleasant sensation that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals.Chronic pain represents one of the most challenging public health issues,and ensuring effective pain management i...Pain is a subjective and unpleasant sensation that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals.Chronic pain represents one of the most challenging public health issues,and ensuring effective pain management is a fundamental right of individuals and a sacred duty of healthcare providers.Cannabis,one of the earliest recognized medicinal plants,contains cannabinoids,which are non-opioid substances that modulate nociceptive responses.Electroacupuncture(EA),characterized by its low-risk and well-tolerated nature,is pivotal in pain management.The endocannabinoid system consists of endocannabinoids,cannabinoid receptors,and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid synthesis,degradation,and transport.Recently,the role of the endocannabinoid system in pain development and EA analgesia has attracted considerable research attention.Studies have highlighted the role of the endocannabinoid system in various types of pain,including inflammatory pain,neuropathic pain,and cancer-related pain,as well as in EA analgesia.This study aims to review the mechanisms of endocannabinoid system involvement in pain modulation and EA analgesia to provide insights to inform clinical approaches to pain management.展开更多
BACKGROUND Diabetic gastroparesis(DGP)disrupts gastric motility.Electroacupuncture(EA)at Zusanli(ST36)may alleviate DGP symptoms via neural pathways.AIM To investigate how EA current intensities at ST36 regulate neura...BACKGROUND Diabetic gastroparesis(DGP)disrupts gastric motility.Electroacupuncture(EA)at Zusanli(ST36)may alleviate DGP symptoms via neural pathways.AIM To investigate how EA current intensities at ST36 regulate neural pathways and improve gastric motility in DGP models.METHODS A DGP model was established using intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin.Gastrointestinal motility was measured in rats after 2 weeks of continuous EA at ST36.Current intensity was selected as 0.5 mA,1 mA,and 3 mA.Gastric electrodynamics were detected by recording and analyzing the number of gastric discharges.The gastric emptying rate and propulsion rate of the small intestine were measured to assess dynamic gastrointestinal function.Hematoxylin-eosin staining was conducted to measure histopathological changes in the gastric sinus.Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was conducted to determine mRNA levels of Rho guanine nucleotide-binding protein A and Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase.Western blotting was conducted to determine the expression levels of choline acetyltransferase,tyrosine hydroxylase,Rho guanine nucleotide-binding protein A,and Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase.Immunofluorescence staining in the stomach was conducted to detect the distribution of C-kit,an interstitial cell of Cajal marker.An enzymelinked immunosorbent assay was conducted to detect serum levels of acetylcholine and norepinephrine.RESULTS Treatment with EA improved gastric emptying and gastric smooth muscle disorders in rats with DGP,mitigated pathological damage,and restored the function of interstitial cells of Cajal.In addition,different current intensities of EA affected gastrointestinal function of rats with DGP.The 0.5 mA,1 mA,and 3 mA EA groups all improved gastrointestinal function.0.5 mA EA increased acetylcholine levels by increasing protein expression of choline acetyltransferase(P<0.05),thereby upregulating vagus nerve activity and enhancing parasympathetic nerve regulation.3 mA EA increased norepinephrine levels(P<0.05)by increasing protein expression of tyrosine hydroxylase,thereby activating the sympathetic nervous pathway.1 mA coordinated the function of the vagus and sympathetic nerves to improve gastrointestinal motility.CONCLUSION EA with ST36 improved gastric motility in rats with DGP.0.5 mA EA activated the vagus nerve,while 3 mA EA regulated gastrointestinal motility by activating the sympathetic nerves.展开更多
Cumulative studies have shown that the composition of the gut microbiome is strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).Electroacupuncture(EA)therapy has been reported to alleviate vario...Cumulative studies have shown that the composition of the gut microbiome is strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).Electroacupuncture(EA)therapy has been reported to alleviate various diseases,including T2DM,by targeting specific acupuncture points and regulating metabolic homeostasis.A recent review published in the World Journal of Diabetes detailed the role of the gut microbiome in T2DM,discussing the role of therapeutic strategies developed to alleviate T2DM and its complications based on gut microbiome in ameliorating T2DM,as well as the effects of multiple diabetes medications on gut microbiome.However,the review did not elucidate the therapeutic role of EA therapy,a common non-pharmacological intervention for T2DM.This letter complemented the effect of EA therapy on glucose metabolism by adjusting the gut microbiome composition,which reveals the underlying mechanism of glucose lowering by EA therapy and provides a scientific basis for the application of EA therapy in clinical treatment.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the changes in postoperative plasmaβ-endorphin(β-EP)levels in patients who had received perioperative electroacupuncture(EA)treatment in 10 randomized controlled trials(RCTs)and examine the imp...Objective To evaluate the changes in postoperative plasmaβ-endorphin(β-EP)levels in patients who had received perioperative electroacupuncture(EA)treatment in 10 randomized controlled trials(RCTs)and examine the impact of EA on postoperative pain.Methods This meta-analysis evaluated the changes in plasmaβ-EP levels and visual analog scale(VAS)12,24 and 48 hours after surgery in patients receiving perioperative EA.It also assessed the changes in plasma serotonin(5-hydroxytryptamine,5-HT)and prostaglandin E2(PGE2)levels at 24 hours postsurgery.A comprehensive search was conducted in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),Wanfang,Chongqing VIP database,Chinese Biomedical Database(CBM),Web of Science,and PubMed databases.RCTs on perioperative EA andβ-EP published from the inception of the websites up to July 25,2023,were retrieved.Effect size aggregation,literature quality assessment,and bias analysis were performed using RevMan 5.3 software,and sensitivity analysis was conducted via R 4.3.1.Results A total of 10 RCTs involving 706 patients were included.EA in conjunction with conventional anesthesia significantly increased plasmaβ-EP levels at 12 hours postsurgery[standard mean difference(SMD)=2.79,95%CI(1.85,3.72),Z=5.81,P<0.00001],24 hours postsurgery[SMD=1.87,95%CI(0.9,2.83),Z=3.79,P=0.0001],and 48 hours postsurgery[SMD=2.02,95%CI(1.49,2.54),Z=7.50,P<0.00001].EA reduced plasma PGE2 levels at 24 hours postsurgery and plasma 5-HT levels at 24 hours postsurgery,and the VAS at 12,24 and 48 hours after surgery also decreased.Conclusion These findings suggest that perioperative EA markedly elevates plasmaβ-EP levels,reduces pain-inducing factors in plasma,and effectively alleviates acute postoperative pain.展开更多
Objective Acupuncture therapies are known for their effectiveness in treating a variety of gastric diseases,although the mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood.This study tested the effectiveness...Objective Acupuncture therapies are known for their effectiveness in treating a variety of gastric diseases,although the mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood.This study tested the effectiveness of electroacupuncture(EA)at acupoints Zhongwan(RN12)and Weishu(BL21)for managing gastric motility disorder(GMD)and investigated the underlying mechanisms involved.Methods A GMD model was used to evaluate the impact of EA on various aspects of gastric function including the amplitude of gastric motility,electrogastrogram,food intake,and the rate of gastric emptying.Immunofluorescence techniques were used to explore the activation of spinal neurons by EA,specifically examining the presence of cholera toxin B subunit(CTB)-positive neurons and fibers emanating from acupoints RN12 and BL21.The stimulation ofγ-aminobutyric acid(GABA)-ergic neurons in the spinal dorsal horn,the inhibition of sympathetic preganglionic neurons in the spinal lateral horn,and their collective effects on the activity of sympathetic nerves were examined.Results EA at RN12 and BL21 significantly improved gastric motility compromised by GMD.Notably,EA activated spinal neurons,with CTB-positive neurons and fibers from RN12 and BL21 being detectable in both the dorsal root ganglia and the spinal dorsal horn.Further analysis revealed that EA at these acupoints not only stimulated GABAergic neurons in the spinal dorsal horn but also suppressed sympathetic preganglionic neurons in the spinal lateral horn,effectively reducing excessive activity of sympathetic nerves triggered by GMD.Conclusion EA treatment at RN12 and BL21 effectively enhances gastric motility in a GMD model.The therapeutic efficacy of this approach is attributed to the activation of spinal neurons and the modulation of the spinal GABAergic-sympathetic pathway,providing a neurobiological foundation for the role of acupuncture in treating gastric disorders.展开更多
[Objectives]To systematically evaluate the effects of electroacupuncture(EA)on post-stroke apoptosis in animal models,focusing on key apoptotic markers(TUNEL-positive cells,caspase-3,Bcl-2/Bax ratio)and exploring pote...[Objectives]To systematically evaluate the effects of electroacupuncture(EA)on post-stroke apoptosis in animal models,focusing on key apoptotic markers(TUNEL-positive cells,caspase-3,Bcl-2/Bax ratio)and exploring potential sources of heterogeneity related to EA parameters and the timing of interventions.[Methods]A comprehensive search of PubMed,EMBASE,Web of Science,and the Cochrane Library(from inception to July 2025)was conducted to identify randomized controlled animal studies investigating EA in ischemic stroke models(tMCAO/pMCAO).Data pertaining to apoptotic outcomes were extracted,and the methodological quality was assessed using the CAMARADES checklist.A meta-analysis was conducted using random-or fixed-effects models in Stata 17.0,with subgroup analyses for EA timing(pre-vs.post-ischemia)and waveforms(continuous vs.disperse).Heterogeneity among studies was quantified via the I 2 statistic.[Results]Thirty-two studies were included in the analysis.EA significantly reduced apoptosis,as evidenced by a decrease in TUNEL-positive cells(Hedges'g=-3.38,95%CI:-4.09 to-2.67),reduced caspase-3 expression(g=-2.67,95%CI:-3.35 to-2.00),and an increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio(g=2.60,95%CI:1.72 to 3.47).Subgroup analyses showed comparable efficacy between pre-and post-ischemia EA(p=0.50)and revealed a non-significant trend favoring continuous over disperse waveforms(p=0.09).High heterogeneity(I 2>50%)was observed,which was attributed to variations in animal models,EA protocols,and outcome assessments.[Conclusions]EA demonstrates robust anti-apoptotic effects in stroke models,likely mediated through the PI3K/Akt,NF-κB,and TRPV1 pathways.While both timing and waveforms show promise,standardizing EA protocols and conducting translational clinical trials are essential to optimize neuroprotective applications in stroke rehabilitation.展开更多
Background:Electroacupuncture(EA)may affect the severity of hot flashes(HFs)associated with natural menopause and provide additional benefits for postmenopausal women.However,the evidence for its effectiveness in the ...Background:Electroacupuncture(EA)may affect the severity of hot flashes(HFs)associated with natural menopause and provide additional benefits for postmenopausal women.However,the evidence for its effectiveness in the management of early postmenopausal HFs remains inadequately understood.Objective:We designed this trial to assess the efficacy and safety of EA for relieving early postmenopausal HFs.Design,setting,participants and interventions:This randomized sham-controlled trial involved 72 women with HFs.The participants were divided equally into the intervention and control groups.The intervention group was treated with EA,while the control group was treated with sham acupuncture.The main acupoints used were Hegu(LI4),Guanyuan(RN4),Sanyinjiao(SP6),Taixi(KI3),Fuliu(KI7)and Shenshu(BL23).All participants received 18 treatment sessions,distributed across a 6-week period.The treatment was administered on three occasions per week,adhering to a fixed weekday schedule(Monday,Wednesday,Friday or Tuesday,Thursday,Saturday)with a minimum interval of one day between sessions.Each patient received a 12-week follow-up.Main outcome measures:The HF score was the primary outcome.Participants documented the frequency and severity of HFs in a 7-day symptom diary,which provided data for calculating the HF score.Secondary outcomes were the Menopause Rating Scale(MRS),Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire(MENQOL),Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI)and Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome Score Scale(TCMSSS),as well as estradiol(E2),luteinizing hormone(LH)and folliclestimulating hormone(FSH)levels.Results:Both groups demonstrated significant reductions in HF scores after the treatment and during the follow-up(P<0.001).Immediately after completion of the 6-week treatment cycle and at 12 weeks postintervention,the HF scores were similar in both groups.At week 6,the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in MRS,MENQOL(vasomotor,psychosocial,and physical),PSQI and TCMSSS scores(P<0.05).The improvements in the MENQOL(vasomotor,and psychosocial)and PSQI total scores persisted through the follow-up(P<0.05).However,the results showed no significant inter-or intragroup differences in sexual scores on the MENQOL(P>0.05).EA did not significantly decrease E2,LH or FSH levels compared to placebo.The incidence of adverse events was similar in both groups.Conclusion:EA does not significantly improve HFs in early postmenopausal patients.However,it enhances the quality of sleep and decreases menopausal symptoms across vasomotor,psychosocial and physical domains.Trial registration:Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(http://www.chictr.org.cn);Trial ID:Chi CTR2300072002.Please cite this article as:Wang HX,Yu XT,Hu J,Chen JJ,Mei YT,Chen YF.Electroacupuncture for hot flashes in early menopause:A randomized sham-controlled trial.J Integr Med.2025;23(5):519-527.?2025 Shanghai Yueyang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.Published by Elsevier B.V.All rights are reserved,including those for text and data mining,AI training,and similar technologies.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture(EA)for postoperative recovery in patients with gastrointestinal(GI)cancers.Methods We retrieved articles from PubMed,Embase,OVID,Cochrane Library,Web...Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture(EA)for postoperative recovery in patients with gastrointestinal(GI)cancers.Methods We retrieved articles from PubMed,Embase,OVID,Cochrane Library,Web of Science,CINAHL,SinoMed,China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),Wanfang,and Technology Journal Database(VIP)from database inception to November 1,2024.Randomized controlled trials(RCTs)that examine the use of EA to improve GI function,reduce pain,and promote ability ofself-care after GI cancer surgery were included.Based on the type of control interventions,separate meta-analyses were conducted for EA vs postoperative nursing(PN)and EA vs sham acupuncture(SA).The primary outcomes were the time to first flatus(TFF)and the time to first defecation(TFD).The secondary outcomes included the time to recovery of bowel sounds(TRBS),the time to tolerance of liquid diet(TTLD),the time to tolerance of semiliquid diet(TTSD),the time to independent walking(TIW),the length of hospitalization(LH),and visual analog scale(VAS)immediate resting pain scores measured on the first,second and third postoperative days(POD 1–3).Results are reported as mean differences(MDs)with 95%confidence intervals(CIs).RevMan 5.3 was used for meta-analysis,StataSE 15.1 was used for sensitivity analyses and Egger’s tests.This study was registered on PROSPERO(CRD42022314754).Results A total of 19 RCTs involving 1902 participants were included,all of which were conducted in China between 2004 and 2023.When EA compared with PN,the meta-analysis showed EA significantly reduce TFF(n=673,MD=-13.14,95%CI=[-18.97 to-7.31],P<0.00001),TFD(n=598,MD=-19.86,95%CI=[-27.83 to-11.89],P<0.00001),TRBS(n=216,MD=-12.44,95%CI=[-15.00 to-9.87],P<0.00001),TTLD(n=268,MD=-18.14,95%CI=[-24.98 to-11.29],P<0.00001),TTSD(n=141,MD=-20.44,95%CI=[-33.84 to-7.04],P=0.003),VAS on POD 1(n=299,MD=-0.52,95%CI=[-0.92 to-0.11],P=0.01),VAS on POD 2(n=256,MD=-0.91,95%CI=[-1.23 to-0.60],P<0.00001),VAS on POD 3(n=203,MD=-0.57,95%CI=[-0.80 to-0.34],P<0.00001),while no significantly decreasing in the LH(n=322,MD=-1.16,95%CI=[-2.56 to 0.24],P=0.10).As EA compared with SA,EA could significantly reduce TFF(n=782,MD=-15.78,95%CI=[-24.96 to-6.60],P=0.0008),TFD(n=782,MD=-20.42,95%CI=[-36.14 to-4.70],P=0.01),LH(n=782,MD=-1.37,95%CI=[-2.69 to-0.05],P=0.04),TIW(n=743,MD=-0.33,95%CI=[-0.62 to-0.04],P=0.03).13 studies reported that EA reduced the incidence of postoperative complications,and 7 studies reported safety assessments of acupuncture-related adverse events,including hematoma,residual needling,sharp pain,pain,soreness or swelling after needle removal,with no serious adverse events.Conclusion EA can significantly promote the recovery of GI function,reduce postoperative pain,enhance ability of self-care in patients undergoing surgery for GI cancers.展开更多
Objective:The effectiveness of chemotherapy is affected by tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance mechanisms;however,there are certain limitations.Electroacupuncture can regulate the tumor immune response and restore...Objective:The effectiveness of chemotherapy is affected by tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance mechanisms;however,there are certain limitations.Electroacupuncture can regulate the tumor immune response and restore bone marrow hematopoietic function,which is affected by chemotherapy.This study investigated the efficacy and mechanism of electroacupuncture combined with cisplatin in the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer mice.Methods:To establish a mouse model of non-small-cell lung cancer,gene sequencing combined with bioinformatics analysis,flow cytometry,and liquid-phase chips was used to observe the expression of immune cells and related factors in the mouse tumor microenvironment.Flow cytometry was used to observe subpopulations of mouse bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells.PAC1 receptor agonists were used to observe mouse tumor immunity and bone marrow hematopoiesis-related indicators.Results:The combination of electroacupuncture with high-and low-dose chemotherapy had a better tumor-suppressive effect.Electroacupuncture can affect the gene expression profile of immune cells,especially the expression levels of Ccr1,Cxcr5,Zbp1,and CamkIIα,and increases the levels of interferon-γ(IFN-γ)and interleukin(IL)-2 protein,upregulating the levels of cytokines Ccl4,Ccl3,and IL-6 in the tumor tissue.Additionally,electroacupuncture enhanced the infiltration of CD8+T cells,dendritic cells,and M1-type macrophages at the tumor site,and reduced the proportion of Th17 and Treg cells.Furthermore,electroacupuncture remodels the bone marrow hematopoietic microenvironment after chemotherapy by increasing the number of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cell subsets,leukocytes,and subpopulations in the peripheral blood.PAC1 receptor agonists have similar effects to those of electroacupuncture on hematopoietic protection and tumor immunity after chemotherapy.Conclusions:Electroacupuncture may improve chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression,reshape the tumor microenvironment immune response affected by chemotherapy,and change the tumor immune microenvironment to an anti-tumor mode by regulating tumor local immune-related cytokines.The PAC1 receptor may be a drug target for the treatment of myelosuppression and immunosuppression in patients with tumors.展开更多
Objective:Arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy(AIC)is a reversible dilated cardiomyopathy induced by rapid or irregular heartbeat.Acupuncture has a long history of use in the treatment of cardiac diseases,and Xinshu(BL15...Objective:Arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy(AIC)is a reversible dilated cardiomyopathy induced by rapid or irregular heartbeat.Acupuncture has a long history of use in the treatment of cardiac diseases,and Xinshu(BL15)is a key acupoint.However,the underlying mechanism of acupuncture at BL15 in the treatment of AIC has not yet been elucidated.Methods:AIC was induced in adult male Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats by continuous administration of acetylcholine(ACh)-CaCl2 and treatment with electroacupuncture(EA)at bilateral BL15.Echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function;the rotarod test for motor coordination and performance;hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining for the morphology of ventricles;electrocardiogram for susceptibility,inducibility,and duration of atrial fibrillation(AF);and electrical and optical mapping in isolated rat hearts maintained by the Langendorff perfusion system for electrical conduction and intracellular handling,respectively.Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)and Western blotting were used to determine the levels of cardiac conduction and intracellular calcium-handling proteins in the ventricle.Results:The results showed that EA improved the ejection factor and morphological indices on echocardiography,restored motor coordination and performance,and alleviated ventricular dilation and AF onset.EA alleviates atrial conduction disorders,shortens APD80,and decreases calcium handling in rats with AIC.Cx43 was downregulated and CaMKII was upregulated,and both effects were reversed by EA treatment.Conclusion:Our study provides a novel AIC model with abnormal electrical propagation and calcium handling that can be protected by EA at BL15.This potential mechanism may be associated with the modulation of Cx43 and CaMKII expression.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the mechanism of electroacupuncture of sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure reduction in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus(PVN)of spontaneous hypertensive rats(SHRs).METHODS:A ...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the mechanism of electroacupuncture of sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure reduction in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus(PVN)of spontaneous hypertensive rats(SHRs).METHODS:A total of 64 male SHRs were divided into four groups:model,sham-operated(Sham),electroacupuncture(EA),and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist and electroacupuncture(NRA+EA).In addition,16 Wistar-Kyoto rats were used as controls.PVN stereotaxic surgery was performed in both the Sham and NRA+EA groups,while the EA and NRA+EA groups received 14 d of electroacupuncture.Blood pressure(BP)and heart rate(HR)were measured the day before the intervention and every other day.After 14 d of intervention,the rats in each group were tested for renal sympathetic nerve activity(RSNA).The associated factor levels were determined using Western blotting,reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RTPCR),enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)and immunofluorescence assays.RESULTS:In comparison to the model group,the EA and NRA+EA groups had significantly lower BP,HR,and RSNA(P<0.01).The expression of N-methyl-Daspartate receptor(NMDAR),angiotensin II(Ang II),angiotensin II type 1(AT1),tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1β,norepinephrine and arginine vasopressin was significantly lower in the EA and NRA+EA groups(P<0.01).Moreover,the antihypertensive effect of NRA+EA group outperformed to the EA group.CONCLUSIONS:Electroacupuncture effectively reduced the BP and sympathetic nerve excitability in SHRs.The mechanism was linked to the inhibition of NMDARmediated Ang II/AT1 and the inflammatory response in PVN.展开更多
Background:Diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN)is a prevalent and debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus,lacking effective treatment options.Despite unclear underlying mechanisms,electroacupuncture(EA)shows pro...Background:Diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN)is a prevalent and debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus,lacking effective treatment options.Despite unclear underlying mechanisms,electroacupuncture(EA)shows promise in relieving DPN symptoms.Neurotransmitter dysregulation is central to DPN pathophysiology.This study aimed to investigate EA’s effects on DPN via targeted neurotransmitter metabolomics.Methods:A streptozotocin-induced mouse model of DPN was developed,and EA treatment was administered for two weeks to assess the therapeutic potential of EA.Following the collection of sciatic nerve samples,LC-MS-based targeted metabolomics analyses investigations were performed to examine alterations in DPN-associated neurotransmitter metabolism brought on by EA therapy.Multivariate statistical analyses were employed to assess metabolite expression patterns,using cluster heatmaps to display neurotransmitter expression results.KEGG pathway analyses were also used to explore the functional classifications of these neurotransmitters and associated metabolic pathways.Results:Targeted neurotransmitter-focused metabolomics analyses led to the identification of 34 putative biomarkers associated with EA treatment,of which 5 showed significant changes,such as beta-alanine(increased by 80.37%,P=0.0004)and kynurenine(decreased by 29.36%,P=0.0163).KEGG pathway analysis indicated that changes in the abundance of these metabolites were associated with the cAMP signaling pathway,neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions,the synaptic vesicle cycle,and other pathways.Conclusion:The results indicate that EA can efficiently regulate neurotransmitter metabolism and restore peripheral nerve function,suggesting a feasible non-pharmacological strategy for DPN treatment and warranting clinical translation.展开更多
BACKGROUND Knee osteoarthritis(KOA)is a chronic condition characterized by joint pain and dysfunction,driven by aging and obesity.Research indicates that the gut microbiota significantly influences KOA,potentially aff...BACKGROUND Knee osteoarthritis(KOA)is a chronic condition characterized by joint pain and dysfunction,driven by aging and obesity.Research indicates that the gut microbiota significantly influences KOA,potentially affecting inflammation and disease progression through the gut-joint axis.Traditional treatments like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs offer symptom relief but have adverse effects.Emerging therapies like electroacupuncture(EA)and Tuina(TN)have shown promise in alleviating pain and improving joint function by targeting the gut microbiota.AIM To clarify the efficacy of EA with TN in treating KOA and its effect on gut microbiota regulation.METHODS Sixty patients with KOA were allocated to EA or EA+TN(ET)group(n=30 each).Seven acupoints were punctured.The ET group received TN after each EA session.Both groups completed 12 sessions.The visual analog scale(VAS)for assessing pain and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index(WOMAC)for measuring pain intensity,joint stiffness,and functional capacity were employed to assess clinical outcomes.Pre-and post-treatment fecal specimens underwent 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing to analyze the gut microbiota.RESULTS The ET group showed higher rates of“effective”and“markedly effective”outcomes.The VAS score of the ET group remained significantly lower than that of the EA group(P<0.001)immediately after treatment and 1 week post-treatment.The total WOMAC score(P<0.001),pain(P=0.191),stiffness(P=0.015),and function scores(P<0.001)decreased significantly in the ET group post-treatment.The gut microbiota analysis revealed no significant changes in alpha diversity in either group.Beta-diversity analysis indicated distinct patterns in the ET group before and after treatment.Significant changes in microbial abundance were detected in both groups,highlighting variations in Firmicutes,Actinobacteria,Proteobacteria,and Bacteroidetes.CONCLUSION ET outperforms EA alone in improving KOA pain,stiffness,and function,potentially via gut microbiota modulation,intestinal barrier protection,and inflammation reduction.展开更多
Objective:To elucidate the specific mechanisms by which electroacupuncture(EA)alleviates anxiety and fear behaviors associated with posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD),focusing on the role of lipocalin-2(Lcn2).Methods...Objective:To elucidate the specific mechanisms by which electroacupuncture(EA)alleviates anxiety and fear behaviors associated with posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD),focusing on the role of lipocalin-2(Lcn2).Methods:The PTSD mouse model was subjected to single prolonged stress and shock(SPS&S),and the animals received 15 min sessions of EA at Shenmen acupoint(HT7).Behavioral tests were used to investigate the effects of EA at HT7 on anxiety and fear.Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to quantify Lcn2 and inflammatory cytokine levels in the prefrontal cortex(PFC).Additionally,the activity of PFC neurons was evaluated by immunofluorescence and in vivo electrophysiology.Results:Mice subjected to SPS&S presented increased anxiety-and fear-like behaviors.Lcn2 expression in the PFC was significantly upregulated following SPS&S,leading to increased expression of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-a and interleukin-6 and suppression of PFC neuronal activity.However,EA at HT7 inhibited Lcn2 release,reducing neuroinflammation and hypoexcitability in the PFC.Lcn2 overexpression mitigated the effects of EA at HT7,resulting in anxiety-and fear-like behaviors.Conclusion:EA at HT7 can ameliorate PTSD-associated anxiety and fear,and its mechanism of action appears to involve the inhibition of Lcn2-mediated neural activity and inflammation in the PFC.展开更多
基金supported by the National Science and Technology Support Program of China,No.2006BAI12B05-2the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30672768Key Discipline Construction Project of"211 Project"of Guangdong Province in China
文摘One hundred and five patients with primary unipolar depression were randomly divided into three groups： drug group （Seroxat administration）, acupuncture group （Seroxat plus acupunc- ture）, and electroacupuncture group （Seroxat plus acupuncture plus electroacupuncture）. Patients＇ symptoms were evaluated using a psychometric questionnaire, the Symptom Check- list-90, before intervention and after 2, 4, 6 and 10 weeks of treatment. The individual factor scores and the total score from the Symptom Checldist-90 reduced in all three groups as treat- ment progressed. In the acupuncture and electroacupuncture groups, the total score and the factor scores for obsessive-compulsive symptoms, depression, and anxiety were significantly lower than those in the drug group. There was no significant difference in the factor scores or total scores between the acupuncture and electroacupuncture groups. Some factor scores in the electroacupuncture group, such as somatization, depression, hostility, and phobic anxiety, were increased at 10 weeks compared with the respective score immediately after the course of electroacupuncture at 6 weeks. Our findings indicate that administration of Seroxat alone or in combination with acupuncture/electroacupuncture can produce a significant effect in patients with primary unipolar depression. Furthermore, acupuncture/electroacupuncture has a rapid onset of therapeutic effect and produces a noticeable improvement in obsessive-compulsive, de- pressive and anxiety symptoms.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82174496(to NW),82374574(to NW),82302865(to LL)Shanghai Science and Technology Committee Sailing Program,Nos.23YF1403800(to LL),23YF1405200(to YX)Shanghai Hospital Development Center Foundation-Shanghai Municipal Hospital Rehabilitation Medicine Specialty Alliance,No.SHDC22023304(to YW).
文摘Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide,and electroacupuncture has a long history of use in stroke treatment.This meta-analysis and systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture and explore its potential mechanisms in animal models of ischemic stroke.The PubMed,EMBASE,Web of Science,CENTRAL,and CINAHL databases were comprehensively searched up to May 1,2024.This review included articles on preclinical investigations of the efficacy and mechanisms of electroacupuncture in treating ischemic stroke.Data from 70 eligible studies were analyzed in Stata 18.0,using a random-effects model to calculate the standardized mean difference(Hedge’s g).The risk of bias was assessed using RevMan 5.4 software,and the quality of evidence was rated according to the Grading of Recommendations,Assessment,Development,and Evaluation(GRADE)system.Subgroup analyses were conducted to test the consistency of the results and sensitivity analyses were used to assess their robustness.The quality assessment revealed that most studies adequately handled incomplete data and selective reporting.However,several methodological limitations were identified:only 4 studies demonstrated a low risk of allocation concealment,26 achieved a low risk of outcome assessment bias,and 9 had a high risk of randomization bias.Additionally,there was an unclear risk regarding participant blinding and other methodological aspects.The GRADE assessment rated 12 outcomes as moderate quality and 6 as low quality.The mechanisms of electroacupuncture treatment for ischemic stroke can be categorized as five primary pathways:(1)Electroacupuncture significantly reduced infarct volume and apoptotic cell death(P<0.01)in ischemic stroke models;(2)electroacupuncture significantly decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory factors(P<0.01)while increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory factors(P=0.02);(3)electroacupuncture reduced the levels of oxidative stress indicators(P<0.01)and enhanced the expression of antioxidant enzymes(P<0.01);(4)electroacupuncture significantly promoted nerve regeneration(P<0.01);and(5)electroacupuncture influenced blood flow remodeling(P<0.01)and angiogenesis(P<0.01).Subgroup analyses indicated that electroacupuncture was most effective in the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model(P<0.01)and in post-middle cerebral artery occlusion intervention(P<0.01).Dispersive waves were found to outperform continuous waves with respect to neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory effects(P<0.01),while scalp acupoints demonstrated greater efficacy than body acupoints(P<0.01).The heterogeneity among the included studies was minimal,and sensitivity analyses indicated stable results.Their methodological quality was generally satisfactory.In conclusion,electroacupuncture is effective in treating cerebral ischemia by modulating cell apoptosis,oxidative stress,inflammation,stroke-induced nerve regeneration,blood flow remodeling,and angiogenesis.The efficacy of electroacupuncture may be influenced by factors such as the middle cerebral artery occlusion model,the timing of intervention onset,waveform,and acupoint selection.Despite the moderate to low quality of evidence,these findings suggest that electroacupuncture has clinical potential for improving outcomes in ischemic stroke.
文摘BACKGROUND Low anterior resection syndrome(LARS)is a prevalent and debilitating complication following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer.Evidence-based interventions for the concurrent psychological burden are limited.Electroacupuncture has been proposed as a potential adjunctive therapy,but its psychological benefits remain inadequately studied.AIM To investigate the therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture on emotional recovery and gastrointestinal function in patients with moderate to severe LARS,and to explore its potential advantages in psychologically vulnerable subgroups.METHODS We conducted a retrospective,controlled study involving 100 patients with moderate to severe LARS(LARS score≥21)treated at two tertiary hospitals in China between January 2022 and December 2024.Patients received either standard postoperative care alone(n=50)or in combination with a standardized 4-week electroacupuncture protocol(n=50).Psychological and functional outcomes were assessed using validated instruments including Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale(HADS),Body Image Scale(BIS),General Self-Efficacy Scale,Perceived Social Support Scale(PSSS),LARS score,and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 at four time points.The primary endpoint was emotional remission,defined as a≥3-point reduction in HADS-Anxiety subscale(HADS-A).Analyses included repeated-measures comparisons,Kaplan-Meier survival curves,Cox regression models,and subgroup-interaction testing.RESULTS At baseline,demographic,surgical,and psychosocial characteristics were comparable among groups.By week 4,patients receiving electroacupuncture demonstrated significantly greater reductions in anxiety(HADS-A:4.8±2.6 vs 7.3±3.0;P<0.001),depression,and body-image disturbance(BIS:8.7±3.6 vs 11.9±4.2;P<0.001),alongside enhanced coping capacity(Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced),perceived social support(PSSS),and bowel function(LARS score).Emotional remission-defined as a≥3-point HADS-A reduction-was achieved more rapidly in the electroacupuncture group,as confirmed by Kaplan-Meier analysis(log-rank P<0.001;odds ratio=4.7).Multivariate Cox regression identified higher baseline LARS and BIS scores as independent predictors of delayed emotional recovery.Subgroup analyses revealed significantly amplified treatment benefits in patients with high baseline anxiety(HADS-A≥8),elevated body-image disturbance(BIS≥12),or low perceived social support(PSSS<60),with consistent interaction effects(P for interaction<0.05 across subgroups).CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture may accelerate emotional recovery and improve functional and psychosocial outcomes in patients with LARS.Its integration into postoperative care may offer particular benefits for psychologically vulnerable subgroups.
基金Supported by National Projects of Natural Science Foundation: 30300461, 30973787, 30973809Project of Science and Technology of Education Department of Hubei Province: 2002 B 00004, D 200726001, Z 20091601+1 种基金Project of Science and Technology of Hubei Science and Technology Agency: 2009 CDA 068, 2010 CDA 101Project of Science and Technology of Wuhan Science and Technology Agency: 201060623269
文摘Objective To observe mechanisms of electroacupuncture （EA） on treating Parkinson＇ s disease （PD）. Methods Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups： a normal control group （Norm）, a sham operation group （Sham）, a model group （Mod） and an electroacupuncture （EA） group. EA at ＂Fengfu＂ （风府 GV16） and ＂Taichong＂ （太冲 LR 3） was applied once daily for 2 weeks in Group EA, and no treatment was given to the animals in the other three groups. PD model was established by using 6-hydroxydopamine. Numbers of tyrosine hydroxylase （TH）, tumor necrosis factor-alpha （TNF-α）and interleukin-1 beta （IL-1β） positive reactive cells in substantia nigra （SN） were counted by using immunohistochemical methods. Results The total TH positive neurons in Group Mod were obviously less than those in Group Norm and Group Sham （P〈0.01）, and the numbers of TNF-α and IL-1β positive cells in Group Mod increased more significantly than those in Group Norm, and Group Sham （P〈0.01）. The total TH positive neurons in Group EA were obviously more than those in Group Mod （P〈0.01）, and the numbers of TNF-α and IL-1β positive cells in Group EA were obviously less than those in Group Mod （P〈0.01）, indicating that EA could markedly lower the contents of such pre-inflammatory factors like TNF-α and IL-1β in SN of experimental rats with PD. Conclusion EA may provide its protective functions on dopaminergic neurons by way of alleviating inflammatory reactions in SN of rats with PD.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82104986 and 82274643)Shanghai“Rising Stars of Medical Talents”Youth Development Program(No.SHWSRS[2023]_062)from Shanghai Municipal Health Commission。
文摘Objective:Comorbid pain and depression are common but remain difficult to treat.Electroacupuncture(EA)can effectively improve symptoms of depression and relieve pain,but its neural mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging(rs-fMRI)to detect cerebral changes after initiating a mouse pain model via constriction of the infraorbital nerve(CION)and then treating these animals with EA.Methods:Forty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into 4 groups:control,CION model,EA,and sham acupuncture(without needle insertion).EA was performed on the acupoints Baihui(GV20)and Zusanli(ST36)for 20 min,once a day for 10 consecutive days.The mechanical withdrawal threshold was tested3 days after the surgery and every 3 days after the intervention.The depressive behavior was evaluated with the tail suspension test,open-field test,elevated plus maze(EPM),sucrose preference test,and marble burying test.The rs-fMRI was used to detect the cerebral changes of the functional connectivity(FC)in the mice following EA treatment.Results:Compared with the CION group,the mechanical withdrawal threshold increased in the EA group at the end of the intervention(P<0.05);the immobility time in tail suspension test decreased(P<0.05);and the times of the open arm entry and the open arm time in the EPM increased(both P<0.001).There was no difference in the sucrose preference or marble burying tests(both P>0.05).The fMRI results showed that EA treatment downregulated the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and regional homogeneity values,while these indicators were elevated in brain regions including the amygdala,hippocampus and cerebral cortex in the CION model for comorbid pain and depression.Selecting the amygdala as the seed region,we found that the FC was higher in the CION group than in the control group.Meanwhile,EA treatment was able to decrease the FC between the amygdala and other brain regions including the caudate putamen,thalamus,and parts of the cerebral cortex.Conclusion:EA can downregulate the abnormal activation of neurons in the amygdala and improve its FC with other brain regions,thus exerting analgesic and antidepressant effects.Please cite this article as:Yin X,Zeng XL,Lin JJ,Xu WQ,Cui KY,Guo XT,Li W,Xu SF.Brain functional changes following electroacupuncture in a mouse model of comorbid pain and depression:A restingstate functional magnetic resonance imaging study.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Exploration of Key Factors and Mechanisms of Modulating Motor Function Reconstruction After Cerebral Infarction Through Multimodal Brain Functional Connectivity Perspective in Procedural Acupoint Electrical Stimulation Research(No.82374601)the Jointly Guided Program of Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province:Quantitative Study on the Role of Scalp Acupuncture in the Motor Area in Promoting Motor Function Reconstruction after Stroke(No.LH2019H113)+1 种基金the Innovation Team Construction Project of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine:Construction of a Doctoral Research and Innovation Team in Acupuncture Science(No.2017sit01)the Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Project of Heilongjiang Province:Clinical Study on the Promotion of Upper Limb Motor Function Reconstruction in Post-Stroke Patients Using Optimal Limb Positioning with Electroacupuncture(No.ZHY2022-171)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture(EA)at scalp motor area for treating post-stroke wrist dyskinesia and its influence on the function of wrist movement-related agonistic muscles.METHODS:A randomized,single-blind,controlled clinical trial was conducted.Sixty-six patients undergoing post-stroke wrist dyskinesia were enrolled and randomized 1:1 to EA or control group.Patients in the control group received manual acupuncture in the scalp motor area(MS 6)on the lesion side.The same acupoint was selected to accept EA stimulation in the EA group.All patients were treated six times a week for three weeks.The primary outcome was the Chinese Stroke Scale(CSS)score.The secondary outcomes included upper limb-related Barthel Index(BI)score,active range of motion(AROM)of the wrist joint,and root mean square(RMS)of the four agonistic muscles associated with wrist motion on the hemiplegic side of patients,i.e.,the extensor carpi radialis longus(ECRL),extensor digitorum(ED),flexor carpi radialis(FCR)and flexor carpi ulnaris(FCU).The above indicators were measured before and after three weeks of treatment.RESULTS:After 3-week treatment,the CSS score and AROM of wrist dorsiflexion of the EA group were better than those in the control group(P=0.038,P=0.047).The differences between the two groups of BI scores and AROM of wrist flexion were not significant(P>0.05).All RMS of the EA group were higher than those in the control group(ECRL:P=0.047,ED:P=0.048,FCR:P=0.049,FCU:P=0.047).The total effective rate in the EA group was 87.50%(28/32),which was higher than that in the control group(77.42%,24/31,P=0.048).CONCLUSION:EA stimulation of the scalp motor area can promote the recovery of the strength and function of the agonistic muscles related to wrist movement and effectively improve post-stroke wrist dyskinesia.
基金supported by the Key Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82130122)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81973949).
文摘Pain is a subjective and unpleasant sensation that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals.Chronic pain represents one of the most challenging public health issues,and ensuring effective pain management is a fundamental right of individuals and a sacred duty of healthcare providers.Cannabis,one of the earliest recognized medicinal plants,contains cannabinoids,which are non-opioid substances that modulate nociceptive responses.Electroacupuncture(EA),characterized by its low-risk and well-tolerated nature,is pivotal in pain management.The endocannabinoid system consists of endocannabinoids,cannabinoid receptors,and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid synthesis,degradation,and transport.Recently,the role of the endocannabinoid system in pain development and EA analgesia has attracted considerable research attention.Studies have highlighted the role of the endocannabinoid system in various types of pain,including inflammatory pain,neuropathic pain,and cancer-related pain,as well as in EA analgesia.This study aims to review the mechanisms of endocannabinoid system involvement in pain modulation and EA analgesia to provide insights to inform clinical approaches to pain management.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82205298Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province,No.2023JJ30462+1 种基金Hunan Provincial Department of Science and Technology,No.2023SK2045,No.22JBZ007,No.Z2023XJYQ07,No.B2024007,and No.Z2023JB012024 Graduate Innovation Topics,No.2024CX031.
文摘BACKGROUND Diabetic gastroparesis(DGP)disrupts gastric motility.Electroacupuncture(EA)at Zusanli(ST36)may alleviate DGP symptoms via neural pathways.AIM To investigate how EA current intensities at ST36 regulate neural pathways and improve gastric motility in DGP models.METHODS A DGP model was established using intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin.Gastrointestinal motility was measured in rats after 2 weeks of continuous EA at ST36.Current intensity was selected as 0.5 mA,1 mA,and 3 mA.Gastric electrodynamics were detected by recording and analyzing the number of gastric discharges.The gastric emptying rate and propulsion rate of the small intestine were measured to assess dynamic gastrointestinal function.Hematoxylin-eosin staining was conducted to measure histopathological changes in the gastric sinus.Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was conducted to determine mRNA levels of Rho guanine nucleotide-binding protein A and Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase.Western blotting was conducted to determine the expression levels of choline acetyltransferase,tyrosine hydroxylase,Rho guanine nucleotide-binding protein A,and Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase.Immunofluorescence staining in the stomach was conducted to detect the distribution of C-kit,an interstitial cell of Cajal marker.An enzymelinked immunosorbent assay was conducted to detect serum levels of acetylcholine and norepinephrine.RESULTS Treatment with EA improved gastric emptying and gastric smooth muscle disorders in rats with DGP,mitigated pathological damage,and restored the function of interstitial cells of Cajal.In addition,different current intensities of EA affected gastrointestinal function of rats with DGP.The 0.5 mA,1 mA,and 3 mA EA groups all improved gastrointestinal function.0.5 mA EA increased acetylcholine levels by increasing protein expression of choline acetyltransferase(P<0.05),thereby upregulating vagus nerve activity and enhancing parasympathetic nerve regulation.3 mA EA increased norepinephrine levels(P<0.05)by increasing protein expression of tyrosine hydroxylase,thereby activating the sympathetic nervous pathway.1 mA coordinated the function of the vagus and sympathetic nerves to improve gastrointestinal motility.CONCLUSION EA with ST36 improved gastric motility in rats with DGP.0.5 mA EA activated the vagus nerve,while 3 mA EA regulated gastrointestinal motility by activating the sympathetic nerves.
文摘Cumulative studies have shown that the composition of the gut microbiome is strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM).Electroacupuncture(EA)therapy has been reported to alleviate various diseases,including T2DM,by targeting specific acupuncture points and regulating metabolic homeostasis.A recent review published in the World Journal of Diabetes detailed the role of the gut microbiome in T2DM,discussing the role of therapeutic strategies developed to alleviate T2DM and its complications based on gut microbiome in ameliorating T2DM,as well as the effects of multiple diabetes medications on gut microbiome.However,the review did not elucidate the therapeutic role of EA therapy,a common non-pharmacological intervention for T2DM.This letter complemented the effect of EA therapy on glucose metabolism by adjusting the gut microbiome composition,which reveals the underlying mechanism of glucose lowering by EA therapy and provides a scientific basis for the application of EA therapy in clinical treatment.
基金Supported by Beijing Natural Science Foundation(7232130)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2024-JYB-JBZD-024)CZ015-High Level Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital SM Project(DZMG-LJRC0006)。
文摘Objective To evaluate the changes in postoperative plasmaβ-endorphin(β-EP)levels in patients who had received perioperative electroacupuncture(EA)treatment in 10 randomized controlled trials(RCTs)and examine the impact of EA on postoperative pain.Methods This meta-analysis evaluated the changes in plasmaβ-EP levels and visual analog scale(VAS)12,24 and 48 hours after surgery in patients receiving perioperative EA.It also assessed the changes in plasma serotonin(5-hydroxytryptamine,5-HT)and prostaglandin E2(PGE2)levels at 24 hours postsurgery.A comprehensive search was conducted in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),Wanfang,Chongqing VIP database,Chinese Biomedical Database(CBM),Web of Science,and PubMed databases.RCTs on perioperative EA andβ-EP published from the inception of the websites up to July 25,2023,were retrieved.Effect size aggregation,literature quality assessment,and bias analysis were performed using RevMan 5.3 software,and sensitivity analysis was conducted via R 4.3.1.Results A total of 10 RCTs involving 706 patients were included.EA in conjunction with conventional anesthesia significantly increased plasmaβ-EP levels at 12 hours postsurgery[standard mean difference(SMD)=2.79,95%CI(1.85,3.72),Z=5.81,P<0.00001],24 hours postsurgery[SMD=1.87,95%CI(0.9,2.83),Z=3.79,P=0.0001],and 48 hours postsurgery[SMD=2.02,95%CI(1.49,2.54),Z=7.50,P<0.00001].EA reduced plasma PGE2 levels at 24 hours postsurgery and plasma 5-HT levels at 24 hours postsurgery,and the VAS at 12,24 and 48 hours after surgery also decreased.Conclusion These findings suggest that perioperative EA markedly elevates plasmaβ-EP levels,reduces pain-inducing factors in plasma,and effectively alleviates acute postoperative pain.
基金supported by the Anhui Province Scientific Research Planning Project(No.2023AH050851 and No.2022AH050438)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81904095,No.82205274 and No.82101483)+2 种基金Research Project of Xin’an Medical and Chinese Medicine Modernization Research Institute(No.2023CXMMTCM016)Anhui University of Chinese Medicine 2018–2019 High-level Talents Introduction Support Plan(No.2019rcyb002)Excellent Youth Project of Anhui Universities of China(No.2022AH030065).
文摘Objective Acupuncture therapies are known for their effectiveness in treating a variety of gastric diseases,although the mechanisms underlying these effects are not fully understood.This study tested the effectiveness of electroacupuncture(EA)at acupoints Zhongwan(RN12)and Weishu(BL21)for managing gastric motility disorder(GMD)and investigated the underlying mechanisms involved.Methods A GMD model was used to evaluate the impact of EA on various aspects of gastric function including the amplitude of gastric motility,electrogastrogram,food intake,and the rate of gastric emptying.Immunofluorescence techniques were used to explore the activation of spinal neurons by EA,specifically examining the presence of cholera toxin B subunit(CTB)-positive neurons and fibers emanating from acupoints RN12 and BL21.The stimulation ofγ-aminobutyric acid(GABA)-ergic neurons in the spinal dorsal horn,the inhibition of sympathetic preganglionic neurons in the spinal lateral horn,and their collective effects on the activity of sympathetic nerves were examined.Results EA at RN12 and BL21 significantly improved gastric motility compromised by GMD.Notably,EA activated spinal neurons,with CTB-positive neurons and fibers from RN12 and BL21 being detectable in both the dorsal root ganglia and the spinal dorsal horn.Further analysis revealed that EA at these acupoints not only stimulated GABAergic neurons in the spinal dorsal horn but also suppressed sympathetic preganglionic neurons in the spinal lateral horn,effectively reducing excessive activity of sympathetic nerves triggered by GMD.Conclusion EA treatment at RN12 and BL21 effectively enhances gastric motility in a GMD model.The therapeutic efficacy of this approach is attributed to the activation of spinal neurons and the modulation of the spinal GABAergic-sympathetic pathway,providing a neurobiological foundation for the role of acupuncture in treating gastric disorders.
文摘[Objectives]To systematically evaluate the effects of electroacupuncture(EA)on post-stroke apoptosis in animal models,focusing on key apoptotic markers(TUNEL-positive cells,caspase-3,Bcl-2/Bax ratio)and exploring potential sources of heterogeneity related to EA parameters and the timing of interventions.[Methods]A comprehensive search of PubMed,EMBASE,Web of Science,and the Cochrane Library(from inception to July 2025)was conducted to identify randomized controlled animal studies investigating EA in ischemic stroke models(tMCAO/pMCAO).Data pertaining to apoptotic outcomes were extracted,and the methodological quality was assessed using the CAMARADES checklist.A meta-analysis was conducted using random-or fixed-effects models in Stata 17.0,with subgroup analyses for EA timing(pre-vs.post-ischemia)and waveforms(continuous vs.disperse).Heterogeneity among studies was quantified via the I 2 statistic.[Results]Thirty-two studies were included in the analysis.EA significantly reduced apoptosis,as evidenced by a decrease in TUNEL-positive cells(Hedges'g=-3.38,95%CI:-4.09 to-2.67),reduced caspase-3 expression(g=-2.67,95%CI:-3.35 to-2.00),and an increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio(g=2.60,95%CI:1.72 to 3.47).Subgroup analyses showed comparable efficacy between pre-and post-ischemia EA(p=0.50)and revealed a non-significant trend favoring continuous over disperse waveforms(p=0.09).High heterogeneity(I 2>50%)was observed,which was attributed to variations in animal models,EA protocols,and outcome assessments.[Conclusions]EA demonstrates robust anti-apoptotic effects in stroke models,likely mediated through the PI3K/Akt,NF-κB,and TRPV1 pathways.While both timing and waveforms show promise,standardizing EA protocols and conducting translational clinical trials are essential to optimize neuroprotective applications in stroke rehabilitation.
基金supported by Shanghai Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion(No.20MC1920500)National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine High-Level Disciplines Construction Project(No.ZYYZDXK-2023068)Three Year Action Plan for Shanghai to Further Accelerate the Inheritance,Innovation and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2025-2027)(No.1-1-2)。
文摘Background:Electroacupuncture(EA)may affect the severity of hot flashes(HFs)associated with natural menopause and provide additional benefits for postmenopausal women.However,the evidence for its effectiveness in the management of early postmenopausal HFs remains inadequately understood.Objective:We designed this trial to assess the efficacy and safety of EA for relieving early postmenopausal HFs.Design,setting,participants and interventions:This randomized sham-controlled trial involved 72 women with HFs.The participants were divided equally into the intervention and control groups.The intervention group was treated with EA,while the control group was treated with sham acupuncture.The main acupoints used were Hegu(LI4),Guanyuan(RN4),Sanyinjiao(SP6),Taixi(KI3),Fuliu(KI7)and Shenshu(BL23).All participants received 18 treatment sessions,distributed across a 6-week period.The treatment was administered on three occasions per week,adhering to a fixed weekday schedule(Monday,Wednesday,Friday or Tuesday,Thursday,Saturday)with a minimum interval of one day between sessions.Each patient received a 12-week follow-up.Main outcome measures:The HF score was the primary outcome.Participants documented the frequency and severity of HFs in a 7-day symptom diary,which provided data for calculating the HF score.Secondary outcomes were the Menopause Rating Scale(MRS),Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire(MENQOL),Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI)and Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome Score Scale(TCMSSS),as well as estradiol(E2),luteinizing hormone(LH)and folliclestimulating hormone(FSH)levels.Results:Both groups demonstrated significant reductions in HF scores after the treatment and during the follow-up(P<0.001).Immediately after completion of the 6-week treatment cycle and at 12 weeks postintervention,the HF scores were similar in both groups.At week 6,the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in MRS,MENQOL(vasomotor,psychosocial,and physical),PSQI and TCMSSS scores(P<0.05).The improvements in the MENQOL(vasomotor,and psychosocial)and PSQI total scores persisted through the follow-up(P<0.05).However,the results showed no significant inter-or intragroup differences in sexual scores on the MENQOL(P>0.05).EA did not significantly decrease E2,LH or FSH levels compared to placebo.The incidence of adverse events was similar in both groups.Conclusion:EA does not significantly improve HFs in early postmenopausal patients.However,it enhances the quality of sleep and decreases menopausal symptoms across vasomotor,psychosocial and physical domains.Trial registration:Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(http://www.chictr.org.cn);Trial ID:Chi CTR2300072002.Please cite this article as:Wang HX,Yu XT,Hu J,Chen JJ,Mei YT,Chen YF.Electroacupuncture for hot flashes in early menopause:A randomized sham-controlled trial.J Integr Med.2025;23(5):519-527.?2025 Shanghai Yueyang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.Published by Elsevier B.V.All rights are reserved,including those for text and data mining,AI training,and similar technologies.
基金Supported by the Capital Health Development Research Special Program:2022-4-7016。
文摘Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture(EA)for postoperative recovery in patients with gastrointestinal(GI)cancers.Methods We retrieved articles from PubMed,Embase,OVID,Cochrane Library,Web of Science,CINAHL,SinoMed,China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),Wanfang,and Technology Journal Database(VIP)from database inception to November 1,2024.Randomized controlled trials(RCTs)that examine the use of EA to improve GI function,reduce pain,and promote ability ofself-care after GI cancer surgery were included.Based on the type of control interventions,separate meta-analyses were conducted for EA vs postoperative nursing(PN)and EA vs sham acupuncture(SA).The primary outcomes were the time to first flatus(TFF)and the time to first defecation(TFD).The secondary outcomes included the time to recovery of bowel sounds(TRBS),the time to tolerance of liquid diet(TTLD),the time to tolerance of semiliquid diet(TTSD),the time to independent walking(TIW),the length of hospitalization(LH),and visual analog scale(VAS)immediate resting pain scores measured on the first,second and third postoperative days(POD 1–3).Results are reported as mean differences(MDs)with 95%confidence intervals(CIs).RevMan 5.3 was used for meta-analysis,StataSE 15.1 was used for sensitivity analyses and Egger’s tests.This study was registered on PROSPERO(CRD42022314754).Results A total of 19 RCTs involving 1902 participants were included,all of which were conducted in China between 2004 and 2023.When EA compared with PN,the meta-analysis showed EA significantly reduce TFF(n=673,MD=-13.14,95%CI=[-18.97 to-7.31],P<0.00001),TFD(n=598,MD=-19.86,95%CI=[-27.83 to-11.89],P<0.00001),TRBS(n=216,MD=-12.44,95%CI=[-15.00 to-9.87],P<0.00001),TTLD(n=268,MD=-18.14,95%CI=[-24.98 to-11.29],P<0.00001),TTSD(n=141,MD=-20.44,95%CI=[-33.84 to-7.04],P=0.003),VAS on POD 1(n=299,MD=-0.52,95%CI=[-0.92 to-0.11],P=0.01),VAS on POD 2(n=256,MD=-0.91,95%CI=[-1.23 to-0.60],P<0.00001),VAS on POD 3(n=203,MD=-0.57,95%CI=[-0.80 to-0.34],P<0.00001),while no significantly decreasing in the LH(n=322,MD=-1.16,95%CI=[-2.56 to 0.24],P=0.10).As EA compared with SA,EA could significantly reduce TFF(n=782,MD=-15.78,95%CI=[-24.96 to-6.60],P=0.0008),TFD(n=782,MD=-20.42,95%CI=[-36.14 to-4.70],P=0.01),LH(n=782,MD=-1.37,95%CI=[-2.69 to-0.05],P=0.04),TIW(n=743,MD=-0.33,95%CI=[-0.62 to-0.04],P=0.03).13 studies reported that EA reduced the incidence of postoperative complications,and 7 studies reported safety assessments of acupuncture-related adverse events,including hematoma,residual needling,sharp pain,pain,soreness or swelling after needle removal,with no serious adverse events.Conclusion EA can significantly promote the recovery of GI function,reduce postoperative pain,enhance ability of self-care in patients undergoing surgery for GI cancers.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFC3500404)the Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)(81704146,82205310)+1 种基金the Research Program Project of Tianjin Education Commission(2021KJ120)the National College Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program(202410063009)。
文摘Objective:The effectiveness of chemotherapy is affected by tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance mechanisms;however,there are certain limitations.Electroacupuncture can regulate the tumor immune response and restore bone marrow hematopoietic function,which is affected by chemotherapy.This study investigated the efficacy and mechanism of electroacupuncture combined with cisplatin in the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer mice.Methods:To establish a mouse model of non-small-cell lung cancer,gene sequencing combined with bioinformatics analysis,flow cytometry,and liquid-phase chips was used to observe the expression of immune cells and related factors in the mouse tumor microenvironment.Flow cytometry was used to observe subpopulations of mouse bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells.PAC1 receptor agonists were used to observe mouse tumor immunity and bone marrow hematopoiesis-related indicators.Results:The combination of electroacupuncture with high-and low-dose chemotherapy had a better tumor-suppressive effect.Electroacupuncture can affect the gene expression profile of immune cells,especially the expression levels of Ccr1,Cxcr5,Zbp1,and CamkIIα,and increases the levels of interferon-γ(IFN-γ)and interleukin(IL)-2 protein,upregulating the levels of cytokines Ccl4,Ccl3,and IL-6 in the tumor tissue.Additionally,electroacupuncture enhanced the infiltration of CD8+T cells,dendritic cells,and M1-type macrophages at the tumor site,and reduced the proportion of Th17 and Treg cells.Furthermore,electroacupuncture remodels the bone marrow hematopoietic microenvironment after chemotherapy by increasing the number of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cell subsets,leukocytes,and subpopulations in the peripheral blood.PAC1 receptor agonists have similar effects to those of electroacupuncture on hematopoietic protection and tumor immunity after chemotherapy.Conclusions:Electroacupuncture may improve chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression,reshape the tumor microenvironment immune response affected by chemotherapy,and change the tumor immune microenvironment to an anti-tumor mode by regulating tumor local immune-related cytokines.The PAC1 receptor may be a drug target for the treatment of myelosuppression and immunosuppression in patients with tumors.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFC3500405,2019YFC1712105)The National Science Foundation of China(82374075)+1 种基金The National Comprehensive Traditional Chinese Medicine Reform Demonstration Zone Science and Technology Collaborative Development Project(GZY-KJS-SD-2024-046)Taishan Scholar Youth Project of Shandong Province(tsqn202306188).
文摘Objective:Arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy(AIC)is a reversible dilated cardiomyopathy induced by rapid or irregular heartbeat.Acupuncture has a long history of use in the treatment of cardiac diseases,and Xinshu(BL15)is a key acupoint.However,the underlying mechanism of acupuncture at BL15 in the treatment of AIC has not yet been elucidated.Methods:AIC was induced in adult male Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats by continuous administration of acetylcholine(ACh)-CaCl2 and treatment with electroacupuncture(EA)at bilateral BL15.Echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function;the rotarod test for motor coordination and performance;hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining for the morphology of ventricles;electrocardiogram for susceptibility,inducibility,and duration of atrial fibrillation(AF);and electrical and optical mapping in isolated rat hearts maintained by the Langendorff perfusion system for electrical conduction and intracellular handling,respectively.Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)and Western blotting were used to determine the levels of cardiac conduction and intracellular calcium-handling proteins in the ventricle.Results:The results showed that EA improved the ejection factor and morphological indices on echocardiography,restored motor coordination and performance,and alleviated ventricular dilation and AF onset.EA alleviates atrial conduction disorders,shortens APD80,and decreases calcium handling in rats with AIC.Cx43 was downregulated and CaMKII was upregulated,and both effects were reversed by EA treatment.Conclusion:Our study provides a novel AIC model with abnormal electrical propagation and calcium handling that can be protected by EA at BL15.This potential mechanism may be associated with the modulation of Cx43 and CaMKII expression.
基金Doctoral Research Fund Project of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University(Qingdao):Mechanistic Study on the Improvement of Vertigo Caused by Posterior Circulation Ischemia by Acupuncture through Regulating Cerebral Blood Flow in Rats with Posterior Circulation Ischemia Vertigo(No.QDKY2023BS19)National Natural Science Foundation of China:From Microrna 9 Regulate P2X7 Receptor of Microglia in Paraventricular Nucleus of Hypothalamus to Explore the Effect of Electroacupuncture on Sympathetic Nerve Excitability in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats(No.82074553)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the mechanism of electroacupuncture of sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure reduction in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus(PVN)of spontaneous hypertensive rats(SHRs).METHODS:A total of 64 male SHRs were divided into four groups:model,sham-operated(Sham),electroacupuncture(EA),and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist and electroacupuncture(NRA+EA).In addition,16 Wistar-Kyoto rats were used as controls.PVN stereotaxic surgery was performed in both the Sham and NRA+EA groups,while the EA and NRA+EA groups received 14 d of electroacupuncture.Blood pressure(BP)and heart rate(HR)were measured the day before the intervention and every other day.After 14 d of intervention,the rats in each group were tested for renal sympathetic nerve activity(RSNA).The associated factor levels were determined using Western blotting,reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RTPCR),enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)and immunofluorescence assays.RESULTS:In comparison to the model group,the EA and NRA+EA groups had significantly lower BP,HR,and RSNA(P<0.01).The expression of N-methyl-Daspartate receptor(NMDAR),angiotensin II(Ang II),angiotensin II type 1(AT1),tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1β,norepinephrine and arginine vasopressin was significantly lower in the EA and NRA+EA groups(P<0.01).Moreover,the antihypertensive effect of NRA+EA group outperformed to the EA group.CONCLUSIONS:Electroacupuncture effectively reduced the BP and sympathetic nerve excitability in SHRs.The mechanism was linked to the inhibition of NMDARmediated Ang II/AT1 and the inflammatory response in PVN.
基金supported by Pudong New Area Science and Technology Development Fund Special Research Project on the Livelihood of Institutions(No.PKJ2023-Y03)Pudong New Area Chinese Medicine Senior Teacher Training Program(No.PDZY-2023-0801)Talents Training Program of the Seventh People’s Hospital,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.JY2024-08).
文摘Background:Diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN)is a prevalent and debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus,lacking effective treatment options.Despite unclear underlying mechanisms,electroacupuncture(EA)shows promise in relieving DPN symptoms.Neurotransmitter dysregulation is central to DPN pathophysiology.This study aimed to investigate EA’s effects on DPN via targeted neurotransmitter metabolomics.Methods:A streptozotocin-induced mouse model of DPN was developed,and EA treatment was administered for two weeks to assess the therapeutic potential of EA.Following the collection of sciatic nerve samples,LC-MS-based targeted metabolomics analyses investigations were performed to examine alterations in DPN-associated neurotransmitter metabolism brought on by EA therapy.Multivariate statistical analyses were employed to assess metabolite expression patterns,using cluster heatmaps to display neurotransmitter expression results.KEGG pathway analyses were also used to explore the functional classifications of these neurotransmitters and associated metabolic pathways.Results:Targeted neurotransmitter-focused metabolomics analyses led to the identification of 34 putative biomarkers associated with EA treatment,of which 5 showed significant changes,such as beta-alanine(increased by 80.37%,P=0.0004)and kynurenine(decreased by 29.36%,P=0.0163).KEGG pathway analysis indicated that changes in the abundance of these metabolites were associated with the cAMP signaling pathway,neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions,the synaptic vesicle cycle,and other pathways.Conclusion:The results indicate that EA can efficiently regulate neurotransmitter metabolism and restore peripheral nerve function,suggesting a feasible non-pharmacological strategy for DPN treatment and warranting clinical translation.
基金Supported by Chongqing Municipal Health and Family Planning Commission and Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Commission Jointly Funded Key Research Projects in Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.ZY201801007。
文摘BACKGROUND Knee osteoarthritis(KOA)is a chronic condition characterized by joint pain and dysfunction,driven by aging and obesity.Research indicates that the gut microbiota significantly influences KOA,potentially affecting inflammation and disease progression through the gut-joint axis.Traditional treatments like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs offer symptom relief but have adverse effects.Emerging therapies like electroacupuncture(EA)and Tuina(TN)have shown promise in alleviating pain and improving joint function by targeting the gut microbiota.AIM To clarify the efficacy of EA with TN in treating KOA and its effect on gut microbiota regulation.METHODS Sixty patients with KOA were allocated to EA or EA+TN(ET)group(n=30 each).Seven acupoints were punctured.The ET group received TN after each EA session.Both groups completed 12 sessions.The visual analog scale(VAS)for assessing pain and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index(WOMAC)for measuring pain intensity,joint stiffness,and functional capacity were employed to assess clinical outcomes.Pre-and post-treatment fecal specimens underwent 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing to analyze the gut microbiota.RESULTS The ET group showed higher rates of“effective”and“markedly effective”outcomes.The VAS score of the ET group remained significantly lower than that of the EA group(P<0.001)immediately after treatment and 1 week post-treatment.The total WOMAC score(P<0.001),pain(P=0.191),stiffness(P=0.015),and function scores(P<0.001)decreased significantly in the ET group post-treatment.The gut microbiota analysis revealed no significant changes in alpha diversity in either group.Beta-diversity analysis indicated distinct patterns in the ET group before and after treatment.Significant changes in microbial abundance were detected in both groups,highlighting variations in Firmicutes,Actinobacteria,Proteobacteria,and Bacteroidetes.CONCLUSION ET outperforms EA alone in improving KOA pain,stiffness,and function,potentially via gut microbiota modulation,intestinal barrier protection,and inflammation reduction.
基金supported by the Anhui Provincial Department of Education Outstanding Young Teachers Cultivation Key Project(No.YQZD2023046)the Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine School Talent Support Program Project(Nos.DT2400000222 and DT2100000545)。
文摘Objective:To elucidate the specific mechanisms by which electroacupuncture(EA)alleviates anxiety and fear behaviors associated with posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD),focusing on the role of lipocalin-2(Lcn2).Methods:The PTSD mouse model was subjected to single prolonged stress and shock(SPS&S),and the animals received 15 min sessions of EA at Shenmen acupoint(HT7).Behavioral tests were used to investigate the effects of EA at HT7 on anxiety and fear.Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to quantify Lcn2 and inflammatory cytokine levels in the prefrontal cortex(PFC).Additionally,the activity of PFC neurons was evaluated by immunofluorescence and in vivo electrophysiology.Results:Mice subjected to SPS&S presented increased anxiety-and fear-like behaviors.Lcn2 expression in the PFC was significantly upregulated following SPS&S,leading to increased expression of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-a and interleukin-6 and suppression of PFC neuronal activity.However,EA at HT7 inhibited Lcn2 release,reducing neuroinflammation and hypoexcitability in the PFC.Lcn2 overexpression mitigated the effects of EA at HT7,resulting in anxiety-and fear-like behaviors.Conclusion:EA at HT7 can ameliorate PTSD-associated anxiety and fear,and its mechanism of action appears to involve the inhibition of Lcn2-mediated neural activity and inflammation in the PFC.
