Objective:To search all available sources to find incontrovertible scientific explanation of the meridian system and mechanism of acupuncture action.Methods:Extensive search of electronic databases was carried out to ...Objective:To search all available sources to find incontrovertible scientific explanation of the meridian system and mechanism of acupuncture action.Methods:Extensive search of electronic databases was carried out to identify all published scientific articles,research papers and experimental findings regarding meridian system,acupuncture points and mechanisms of acupuncture action,from both English and Chinese language journals,from inception till date.Results:There are many hypotheses and studies about meridian system such as,primovascular system as meridian,nuclear tracers study to locate the track of meridian,infrared imaging studies to prove existence of meridians,investigations about anatomical structure of acupoints,etc.There are many researches and theories about mechanism of acupuncture action such as gate control theory of acupuncture analgesia,neurotransmitters,neuro-endocrine-immune network,fMRI evidences of brain’s processing of pain signal etc.Conclusion:Researchers over half a century discovered many factual information about meridian system,acupoints,neuro-transmitters and acupuncture analgesia,neuro-hormonal mechanism etc.All these important discoveries contributed to clarify the mysteries of meridian system and acupuncture action,but they still fell short of providing an incontrovertible scientific explanation.Further coordinated studies are warranted to explore more plausible and scientifically valid explanation of meridian system and acupuncture action.展开更多
Energy expenditure of the meridian system in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)for living human bodies is one of the fundamental questions regarding the physical properties of the meridian system.As a first attempt to ...Energy expenditure of the meridian system in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)for living human bodies is one of the fundamental questions regarding the physical properties of the meridian system.As a first attempt to address this,24 hand/foot meridians were modeled as a continuous channel with the sustainable movement of Qi and blood inside.Then,the fluid mechanics energy equation for steady and incompressible flow was applied to estimate the pumping power of meridian circulation,based on the meridian length,blood viscosity and circulation velocity.Additional findings based on the pumping power estimation results include:(1)new information to corroborate the determination of the production era of Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classics(Huang Di Nei Jing,《黄帝内经》);(2)a new definition for work of breathing(WOB)from a TCM perspective.This paper could lead to future research aimed at modernizing the understanding of the meridian system,Qi and TCM using quantitative methods.展开更多
The meridian theory is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine,playing a crucial role in disease diagnosis,treatment,and health preservation.Serving as the media for the effects of acupuncture,moxibusti...The meridian theory is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine,playing a crucial role in disease diagnosis,treatment,and health preservation.Serving as the media for the effects of acupuncture,moxibustion,herbal medicine,and acupressure massage,meridians exert undeniable impact on the human body.However,the essence of meridians remains a topic of debate.Recent research has primarily focused on their anatomical structures,leading to numerous hypotheses.Simultaneously,other researchers have approached this subject from an energetic perspective,discovering information interactions within the meridian system.These findings suggest that meridians possess both physical and information dimensions,indicating that a singular approach to their study is insufficient.To bridge this gap,a shift from purely structural research toward an exploration of the information aspects of meridians is necessary.By integrating this information approach with traditional meridian theory,it may be possible to develop a new,modernized meridian theory that is aligned with contemporary concepts,making it more accessible and applicable in clinical settings.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of meridian massage on motor function after a stroke.METHODS:This systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomised(RCTs)and quasi-randomised controlled trials(q RCTs)was performed t...OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of meridian massage on motor function after a stroke.METHODS:This systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomised(RCTs)and quasi-randomised controlled trials(q RCTs)was performed to determine the effects of meridian massage on motor dysfunction following a stroke.Articles published until December 2020 related to stroke and meridian massage from National Library of Medicine,Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials,Embase,Korea Med,Japan science and Technology Agency,China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database,Wanfang Database,Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and China Science and Technology Journal Database were searched.The primary outcomes included Fugl-Mayer Assessment(FMA),modified Barthel Index(m BI)and clinical efficiency,while the secondary outcomes included modified Ashworth(m AS)and Berg Balance Scale(BBS).Two authors independently selected the literature,extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias,after which Meta-analysis with subgroups and sensitivity analysis was conducted.RESULTS:A total of 16 RCTs and 3 q-RCTs involved 1556 patients satisfied the inclusion.Meta-analysis showed that compared to conventional rehabilitation,meridian massage had significantly better FMA[mean difference(MD)=1.16,95%confidence interval(CI):0.43,1.89,P=0.002],FMA-L(MD=3.21,95%CI:1.97,4.45,P=0.00001),m BI(MD=8.87,95%CI:4.24,13.49,P=0.00002),clinical efficiency[relative risk(RR)=1.37,95%CI:1.24,1.51,P<0.00001],m AS(MD=-0.69,95%CI:-1.26,-0.11,P=0.02)and BBS(MD=5.07,95%CI:2.22,7.93,P=0.0005).Subgroup analysis indicated no significant difference between meridian massage and control group when the intervention duration was>8 weeks(MD=0.89,95%CI:-0.64,2.42,P=0.25)but improving motor function in the meridian massage when the intervention duration was≤8 weeks(<4 weeks intervention duration MD=0.84,95%CI:0.59,1.10,P<0.00001;4–8 weeks MD=2.41,95%CI:0.80,4.01,P=0.003).CONCLUSIONS:Meridian massage as an alternative and complementary therapy seems to have short-term benefits in improving post-stroke motor function(particularly in the lower limbs),quality of life,clinical efficiency,and balance stability and muscle spasms.The high heterogeneity of the included studies and the low methodological quality certainly limits the confidence placed in this systematic review and Meta-analysis,warranting future well-designed studies.展开更多
The term Jingluo,translated as meridian or channel,is a core component of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and has played a fundamental role in guiding the clinical practice of acupuncture for thousands of years.Howev...The term Jingluo,translated as meridian or channel,is a core component of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and has played a fundamental role in guiding the clinical practice of acupuncture for thousands of years.However,the essence of the meridian remains elusive and is a source of both confusion and debate for researchers.In this study,a“4 D”systemic view on the essence of the meridian,namely substantial,functional,chronological,and cultural dimensions,was proposed based on a review of the ancient medical classics,recent research developments,and results from clinical practice.Previous studies have primarily focused on the substantial dimension of the meridian system,with scant interpretation about its functional domain.Neither systemic data nor evaluations have been adequately documented.Additionally,a limited but increasing number of studies have focused on the chronological and cultural dimensions.More investigations that embody the holistic concept of TCM and integrate the systemic modes and advanced techniques with dominant diseases of TCM need to be performed to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the essence of meridians.The goal of this study is to yield useful information in understanding the essence of meridians and provide a reference and perspective for further research.展开更多
The system of meridians and acupoints in the traditional Chinese medication （TCM） builds up a complex network. We analyze the features and properties of the system of meridians and acupoints as a complex network bas...The system of meridians and acupoints in the traditional Chinese medication （TCM） builds up a complex network. We analyze the features and properties of the system of meridians and acupoints as a complex network based on knowledge of TCM and mathematics. The system shows some important features of complex networks such as the small-world effect and the scale-free property. A preliminary discussion on the robustness of the meridian system as a complex network, and the biomedical functions of such robustness is also given.展开更多
Human meridian(Jingluo)system was hypothesized by traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)for thousands of years,suggest-ing 12 normal meridian channels going through respective organs,carrying fluid and energy,and laying th...Human meridian(Jingluo)system was hypothesized by traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)for thousands of years,suggest-ing 12 normal meridian channels going through respective organs,carrying fluid and energy,and laying thermal effects.Some treatments based on meridians have been proved effective.However,existence of meridians has never been confirmed,let alone the lack of measurement for meridian phenotypes.Thermal effect is one of the major phenotypes of meridian metabo-lism.Infrared photograph was employed to display the picture of meridians since 1970.Unfortunately,no satisfactory results have been obtained.It is possible that only when a certain meridian is activated will there be thermal effect for successful infrared photograph.In this study,13 types of tea were selected out of the herbs to activate the hypothesized 12 meridians for imagery taking.Forty-two volunteers took part in the experiment lasted for 13 days.Different tea was tested in different day.Infrared imageries of the human bodies were taken immediately after each tea was drunk.The highest temperatures of the fingers,palms,and above the organs were derived from the imageries and analyzed.The temperatures of the organs and fingers possibly connected by 12 hypothesized meridians rose together significantly following the meridian hypothesis.Infrared imageries showed quite clear shapes of the organs activated by different kinds of tea,e.g.,heart and kidneys by yel-low tea,etc.Some high temperature lines also matched the hypothetic meridians.Our work displayed the probable imageries of all the 12 hypothetic meridians for the first time,and proved with data that different foods may activate different organs following the meridian hypothesis,shedding light on a possible new method of targeted drug designs.Measurements of meridian phenotypes can be developed based on this method of activation.展开更多
Biosystems are complex. Their physiology is well-controlled with various negative feedback signals and processes, it describes by opposite interfering effects which are characterized in the Eastern philosophy by Yin-Y...Biosystems are complex. Their physiology is well-controlled with various negative feedback signals and processes, it describes by opposite interfering effects which are characterized in the Eastern philosophy by Yin-Yang (Y-Y) pairs. Y-Y pairs could be described by the promoter-suppressor pairs in a wide range of physiologic signals creating the homeostasis of the complex system. This type of control appears as fluctuations from the average (mean) value of the signal. The mean carries an ineluctable fluctuation (called pink-noise or 1/f noise). All signals in homeostasis have equal entropy (SE = 1.8), which is the character of the complex equilibrium. The various controlling opposite signals (Y-Y) have different time-scales which change by aging. The processes with smaller time-scale are degraded by aging, but the pink-noise ensures that the deviations of the signals of the healthy homeostatic system remain constant. Meridians are connected to the general transport systems that combined the material and the information transport with the considerable transport networks, like blood, lymph, nerve, cell-junctions, mesenchymal “ground substance” cytoskeletons. The meridians in this meaning only virtual line averaged from multiple realized paths to connect two acupuncture points by the material, energy and information transport processes. The meridian network is designed by various coupling points (acupoints), which could be perturbed by actuating stimulus. Our objective is to describe the meridian system from complexity point of view.展开更多
BACKGROUND Although gastroscopy is a commonly used diagnostic and therapeutic technique,postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction is prone to occur.Traditional Chinese medicine theory suggests that postoperative gast...BACKGROUND Although gastroscopy is a commonly used diagnostic and therapeutic technique,postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction is prone to occur.Traditional Chinese medicine theory suggests that postoperative gastrointestinal disorders are related to spleen and stomach weakness.This study hypothesizes that the combination of acupoint application at the Ziwu Liuzhu acupoint and percutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation can promote postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery and alleviate stress reactions.AIM To investigate the effects of acupoint application of Ziwu Liuzhu combined with percutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation on postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery and stress response in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy surgery.METHODS A total of 120 patients who underwent gastroscopy surgery were selected and treated between October 2024 and January 2025.This study used a stratified block randomization method,and then allocated groups using computer-generated random number sequences(SAS 9.4 software).The groups were divided into two groups:A control group of 60 patients who received routine postoperative intervention measures,and an observation group of 60 patients who received acupuncture point application combined with transcutaneous acupoint electrical CONCLUSION The combination of percutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation in gastroscopy patients has been demonstrated to be both highly safe and effective.The benefits of this approach include the promotion of postoperative gastrointestinal function,the reduction of stress response,the attainment of optimal results,and the enhancement of patient satisfaction.展开更多
The meridians,nervous system,and circulatory system are important components of tra‐ditional Chinese medicine and modern medicine.The meridians have a high degree of consistency with the distribution of the nervous a...The meridians,nervous system,and circulatory system are important components of tra‐ditional Chinese medicine and modern medicine.The meridians have a high degree of consistency with the distribution of the nervous and circulatory systems in modern medi‐cine,and are closely related in the process of disease treatment.Therefore,people often confuse the three.Based on the great advantages of acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of nervous system and circulatory system diseases,the author has made diver‐sified exploration on its relevance in terms of origin,physiological anatomy,physiological function and clinical application.It is believed that meridians have their relative indepen‐dence,and the nervous and circulatory systems cannot completely replace meridians.However,meridians are closely related to the nervous and circulatory systems,and in clinical practice,meridians can be combined with the nervous and circulatory systems to guide the treatment of diseases.展开更多
The TCM philosophy of a meridian and associated channels pertains to the specific function of one or more organs. We define the <span style="font-family:Verdana;">Lung Primary Meridian (LUM) together w...The TCM philosophy of a meridian and associated channels pertains to the specific function of one or more organs. We define the <span style="font-family:Verdana;">Lung Primary Meridian (LUM) together with the </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Lung Sinew (LUSC), Divergent (LUDC), Luo-connecting (LULCC) Channels as a system of routes plus some parts of the body (such as muscles) to fulfil respiration, as a main function under different situations. There is very limited information about the Lung associated channels in classical literature of TCM. With a clear focus on the function of respiration, we have carried out a detailed analysis of the biomedical consequence of stimulating the LUM, analysed the roles played by LUSC, LUDC, and LULCC. The updated LUM and LUDC include acupoints of other meridians, serving the same purpose of performing satisfactory respiration starting from checking the quality of the inflow through the nose. The LUSC includes the respiratory muscles (plus the associated connective tissues) extending to various parts of the body. The muscles of the limb (as part of the LUSC) embrace the nerves that provide routes for somatosensory reflexes and play the role of locomotion, providing voluntary respiration via the pectoralis muscles. The muscles of LUSC are bounded by stiff connective tissue layers, forming compartments, and are part of the pulley system for various body locomotions. Within a compartment, the interstitial fluid, blood, lymph flows must be potent to protect the associated nerves related to LUM;the healthy state of the LUSC also provides freedom of various types of locomotion. The LULCC exists because the vagus nerve has a part of it passing through the spinal cords all the way down to the sacrum domain, with exiting nerve innervating two-third of the large intestine. The crucial steps of our deductions </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">are supported by experimental evidence based on modern neurophysiology and kinesiology. We discover that all the four channels stated above work as a unit system to allow respiration to be possible under various postures/conditions. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The complexity of structures and processes is eased off by providing 29 figures and 13 tables for the relevant muscles and nerves. In addition to respiration, the Lung system in TCM context includes interaction of this system with the sweat gland and neuroendocrine system;such aspects will be left to another study.</span>展开更多
Hua Shou(1304-1386)styled himself Ying Ning Sheng.He was also known as Hua Boren.His ancestral home was in Xiang Town,Xu Prefecture(present Xuchang,Henan province).His birth place was Yizhen,Jiangsu province.Later he ...Hua Shou(1304-1386)styled himself Ying Ning Sheng.He was also known as Hua Boren.His ancestral home was in Xiang Town,Xu Prefecture(present Xuchang,Henan province).His birth place was Yizhen,Jiangsu province.Later he moved to Yuyao,Zhejiang province.He was one of the distinguished practitioners of the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties.His writings include Elaboration of the Fourteen Meridians(Shi Si Jing Fa Hui),Notes on Handwritten Copy of Basic Questions(Du Su Wen Chao),The Essentials for Physicians(Zhen Jia Shu Yao).展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the effects of external application of warm meridian medicated wine and polarized light therapy combined with acupuncture on pain management following vertebroplasty. METHODS:A total of 120 patie...OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the effects of external application of warm meridian medicated wine and polarized light therapy combined with acupuncture on pain management following vertebroplasty. METHODS:A total of 120 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures treated by vertebroplasty at our hospital were divided into four groups. The control group received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the Treatment Group Ⅰ received acupuncture alone, Treatment Group Ⅱ was treated with medicated wine for warming meridians alongside polarized light physiotherapy, and Treatment Group Ⅲ received a combination of medicated wine for warming meridians, polarized light therapy, and acupuncture. The clinical efficacy, pain thresholds at various time points, temperature pain threshold, electric pain threshold, quality of life, sleep quality index, lumbar dysfunction index, visual analog scale(VAS) scores, and incidence of adverse reactions were compared and analyzed across the four groups. RESULTS:The total clinical effective rate in Treatment Group Ⅲ was significantly higher than that in the control group, Treatment Group Ⅰ, and Treatment Group Ⅱ(P < 0.05). At 24 and 72 h post-treatment, the VAS scores, temperature pain thresholds, and electric pain thresholds in Treatment Group Ⅲ were significantly lower than those in the control group, Treatment Group Ⅰ, and Treatment Group Ⅱ(P < 0.05). Additionally, quality-of-life scores in Treatment Group Ⅲ were markedly higher compared to the control group, Treatment Group Ⅰ, and Treatment Group Ⅱ, while the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores, Oswestry Disability Index scores, and incidence of adverse reactions in Treatment Group Ⅲ were significantly lower than in the other groups(P < 0.05). CONCLUSION:The external application of warm meridian medicated wine and polarized light therapy combined with acupuncture significantly reduces postoperative pain following vertebroplasty, enhances lumbar function, and improves both sleep quality and overall quality of life for patients. This approach is recommended for clinical application.展开更多
It is well known that Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)has two outstanding academic characteristics:the holistic concept comes from Huang Di Nei Jing,and the syndrome differentiation and treatment comes from Shang Han...It is well known that Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)has two outstanding academic characteristics:the holistic concept comes from Huang Di Nei Jing,and the syndrome differentiation and treatment comes from Shang Han Lun.These two characteristics denote the two major academic systems of TCM:one is the medical system of Huang Di Nei Jing,also named syndrome differentiation and treatment system of Zang-Fu organs and meridians,focuses on theoretical exploration,which highlights functional connection and emphasizes philosophical thinking.The treatment in this system is based on physiological functions by taking Zang-Fu organs as the main body,Qi,blood,essence,and body fluid as the auxiliary body,and the meridians and collaterals as the connection channels.The other is the syndrome differentiation and treatment system of the six meridians,which emphasizes clinical practice.It encompasses the idea that the six meridians govern various diseases,emphasizes the disease sites and divisional treatment,and pays attention to the precision and appropriateness of prescription-syndrome differentiation.These two academic systems,with mutual influences and relations,are both the essence and pearl of TCM,nevertheless,there are obvious differences between the two in clinical application,so they should be distinguished.This paper will elaborate on the connection and difference between them,and how to organically combine the two systems for better application in clinical practice of TCM.展开更多
Objective:To study the clinical efficacy of applying the Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device combined with Chinese herbal enema for patients with acute and chronic pelvic inflammatory disease(PID).Methods:Sixty...Objective:To study the clinical efficacy of applying the Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device combined with Chinese herbal enema for patients with acute and chronic pelvic inflammatory disease(PID).Methods:Sixty-two patients with acute and chronic PID admitted from January 2024 to October 2025 were selected and randomly divided into a standard group(n=31)and an experimental group(n=31).The standard group received conventional medication+Chinese herbal enema treatment.The experimental group received the Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device in addition to the standard group’s treatment.The clinical efficacy,changes in inflammatory markers,and pelvic improvement were compared between the two groups.Results:The excellent-good rate of treatment in the experimental group was higher than that in the standard group(p<0.05).The levels of various inflammatory factors in the experimental group were lower than those in the standard group(all p<0.05).The improvement in pelvic mass diameter and pelvic effusion depth in the experimental group was superior to that in the standard group(both p<0.05).Conclusion:The Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device combined with Chinese herbal enema has a definite curative effect in treating pelvic inflammatory disease.It can effectively alleviate clinical symptoms,reduce inflammatory response,and promote the improvement of the pelvic environment.展开更多
Objective To study the effect of the serum derived from the rats treated with electroacupunctre at Stomach Meridian acupoints on the EGFR signal transduction pathway in gastric mucosal cells. Methods Sixty rats were r...Objective To study the effect of the serum derived from the rats treated with electroacupunctre at Stomach Meridian acupoints on the EGFR signal transduction pathway in gastric mucosal cells. Methods Sixty rats were randomly divided into 5 groups： model group, Stomach （ST） Meridian group, Gallbladder （GB） Meridian group, ST＋ PD153035 group and GB＋ PD153035 group. Water-immersion and restrained stress method was adopted for preparation of the stress-induced gastric ulcer rat model, and the gastric mucosa cells were separated by using pronase digestion method. Gastric mucosa cells were incubated respectively with PD153035, EGFR inhibitor and the serum; PLCγ-1＇s expression level in gastric mucosa cells was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay （ELISA）, and PKC activity by isotope mingling method; and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay （RT-PCR） was used for testing expression level of c-myc gene. Results The expression levels of PLCγ-1 ,PKC and c- myc gene were lower in gastric mucosa cells in the model group; there were relatively high expression levels of PLCγ-1 ,PKC and c-myc gene in the ST Meridian group and the GB Meridian group, with the highest expression levels of PLCγ-1 ,PKC and c-myc gene in the ST Meridian, and with a significant difference between the ST Meridian group and the GB Meridian group （P〈0.01 ） ; and relative lower expression levels of PLCγ-1, PKC and c-myc gene were seen in the ST ＋ PD153035 group and the GB ＋ PD153035 group; and there was a significant difference between the ST Meridian group and the ST ＋ PD153035 group （P〈0.01）. Conclusion There was a close correlation between the healing effect of electroacupuncture and activation of the EGFR signal transduction pathway in the impaired gastric mucosa cells, which was also one proof for the TCM theory： ＂There is relative specificity between the meridians and viscera＂.展开更多
Objective To compare the clinical therapeutic effects on scapulohumeral periarthritis between kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians and shoulder three-needle therapy.Methods Fifty cases of...Objective To compare the clinical therapeutic effects on scapulohumeral periarthritis between kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians and shoulder three-needle therapy.Methods Fifty cases of scapulohumeral periarthritis were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group,25 cases for each.The cases in observation group were treated with kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians.For example,the case of Hand-Taiyin type was treated with Yújì （鱼际 LU 10） and the case of Hand-Yangming type was treated with Hégǔ （合谷 LI 4）,etc.The cases in control group were treated with shoulder three-needle therapy,in which,Jiānqián （肩前 Extral）,Jiānyú （肩髃 LI 15） and Jiānliáo （肩髎 TE 14） were selected;7 days of treatment made one session,totally 2 sessions were required.Results In observation group,the curative rate based on ROM of shoulder joint was 72.0% （18/25）,which was superior to that of 40.0% （10/25） in control group （P0.05）.After treatment,the improvements of McGill SF-MPQ score,VAS and PPI in observation group were all superior to those in control group （all P0.05）.Conclusion The kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians is advantageous at analgesia and motor improvements of shoulder joint in treatment of scapulohumeral periarthritis as compared with shoulder three-needle therapy.展开更多
Objective To explore the relationship between connexin 43 and acupoints and meridians. Methods we detected one major skin gap junction connexin （connexin43, Cx43） in meridians and acupoints, and studied the expressi...Objective To explore the relationship between connexin 43 and acupoints and meridians. Methods we detected one major skin gap junction connexin （connexin43, Cx43） in meridians and acupoints, and studied the expression of Cx43 in Zusanli （足三里 ST 36） acupoints compared with control non-acupoint regions in rats after acupuncture treatments. The expression of Cx43 was detected by using immunohisto- chemistry, immunoblotting, and RT-PCR for Cx43 protein and mRNA level. Results The results showed much more abundant Cx43 expression in some cells in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of rat at ST 36 acupoints and bladder and kidney meridians than that of in the controls. The mRNA and protein levels of Cx43 in acupoints were significantly higher than those of in the control points in non-acupuncture groups and even more so after acupuncture treatments. Conclusion Our research implied that connexins and gap junctions could have a close relationship to acupoints and meridians, and gap junctional intercellular communication might play an important role in the effect of acupuncture.展开更多
基金Supported by The National Social Science Fund of China:19BYY077。
文摘Objective:To search all available sources to find incontrovertible scientific explanation of the meridian system and mechanism of acupuncture action.Methods:Extensive search of electronic databases was carried out to identify all published scientific articles,research papers and experimental findings regarding meridian system,acupuncture points and mechanisms of acupuncture action,from both English and Chinese language journals,from inception till date.Results:There are many hypotheses and studies about meridian system such as,primovascular system as meridian,nuclear tracers study to locate the track of meridian,infrared imaging studies to prove existence of meridians,investigations about anatomical structure of acupoints,etc.There are many researches and theories about mechanism of acupuncture action such as gate control theory of acupuncture analgesia,neurotransmitters,neuro-endocrine-immune network,fMRI evidences of brain’s processing of pain signal etc.Conclusion:Researchers over half a century discovered many factual information about meridian system,acupoints,neuro-transmitters and acupuncture analgesia,neuro-hormonal mechanism etc.All these important discoveries contributed to clarify the mysteries of meridian system and acupuncture action,but they still fell short of providing an incontrovertible scientific explanation.Further coordinated studies are warranted to explore more plausible and scientifically valid explanation of meridian system and acupuncture action.
文摘Energy expenditure of the meridian system in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)for living human bodies is one of the fundamental questions regarding the physical properties of the meridian system.As a first attempt to address this,24 hand/foot meridians were modeled as a continuous channel with the sustainable movement of Qi and blood inside.Then,the fluid mechanics energy equation for steady and incompressible flow was applied to estimate the pumping power of meridian circulation,based on the meridian length,blood viscosity and circulation velocity.Additional findings based on the pumping power estimation results include:(1)new information to corroborate the determination of the production era of Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classics(Huang Di Nei Jing,《黄帝内经》);(2)a new definition for work of breathing(WOB)from a TCM perspective.This paper could lead to future research aimed at modernizing the understanding of the meridian system,Qi and TCM using quantitative methods.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82205286)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82074556)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20404)the Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province(2023NSFSC1819).
文摘The meridian theory is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine,playing a crucial role in disease diagnosis,treatment,and health preservation.Serving as the media for the effects of acupuncture,moxibustion,herbal medicine,and acupressure massage,meridians exert undeniable impact on the human body.However,the essence of meridians remains a topic of debate.Recent research has primarily focused on their anatomical structures,leading to numerous hypotheses.Simultaneously,other researchers have approached this subject from an energetic perspective,discovering information interactions within the meridian system.These findings suggest that meridians possess both physical and information dimensions,indicating that a singular approach to their study is insufficient.To bridge this gap,a shift from purely structural research toward an exploration of the information aspects of meridians is necessary.By integrating this information approach with traditional meridian theory,it may be possible to develop a new,modernized meridian theory that is aligned with contemporary concepts,making it more accessible and applicable in clinical settings.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Based on the Regulation of MIR-206 on BDNF,to Explore the Mechanism of Meridian Massage on Motor Function Reconstruction in rats with Cerebral Infarction,No.8166150430)
文摘OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of meridian massage on motor function after a stroke.METHODS:This systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomised(RCTs)and quasi-randomised controlled trials(q RCTs)was performed to determine the effects of meridian massage on motor dysfunction following a stroke.Articles published until December 2020 related to stroke and meridian massage from National Library of Medicine,Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials,Embase,Korea Med,Japan science and Technology Agency,China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database,Wanfang Database,Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and China Science and Technology Journal Database were searched.The primary outcomes included Fugl-Mayer Assessment(FMA),modified Barthel Index(m BI)and clinical efficiency,while the secondary outcomes included modified Ashworth(m AS)and Berg Balance Scale(BBS).Two authors independently selected the literature,extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias,after which Meta-analysis with subgroups and sensitivity analysis was conducted.RESULTS:A total of 16 RCTs and 3 q-RCTs involved 1556 patients satisfied the inclusion.Meta-analysis showed that compared to conventional rehabilitation,meridian massage had significantly better FMA[mean difference(MD)=1.16,95%confidence interval(CI):0.43,1.89,P=0.002],FMA-L(MD=3.21,95%CI:1.97,4.45,P=0.00001),m BI(MD=8.87,95%CI:4.24,13.49,P=0.00002),clinical efficiency[relative risk(RR)=1.37,95%CI:1.24,1.51,P<0.00001],m AS(MD=-0.69,95%CI:-1.26,-0.11,P=0.02)and BBS(MD=5.07,95%CI:2.22,7.93,P=0.0005).Subgroup analysis indicated no significant difference between meridian massage and control group when the intervention duration was>8 weeks(MD=0.89,95%CI:-0.64,2.42,P=0.25)but improving motor function in the meridian massage when the intervention duration was≤8 weeks(<4 weeks intervention duration MD=0.84,95%CI:0.59,1.10,P<0.00001;4–8 weeks MD=2.41,95%CI:0.80,4.01,P=0.003).CONCLUSIONS:Meridian massage as an alternative and complementary therapy seems to have short-term benefits in improving post-stroke motor function(particularly in the lower limbs),quality of life,clinical efficiency,and balance stability and muscle spasms.The high heterogeneity of the included studies and the low methodological quality certainly limits the confidence placed in this systematic review and Meta-analysis,warranting future well-designed studies.
基金supported by funding from Zhejiang Provincial Planned Project of Philosophy and Social Sciences(No.20NDJC118YB)the Key National Social Science Fund of China(No.18ZDA322)+2 种基金the National Social Science Fund of China(No.19XXW005)the International Cooperation and Exchange Project of Sichuan Provincial Science and Technology Department(No.2017HH0004)Social Science Fund for Universities of Sichuan Province(No.2021XT17)。
文摘The term Jingluo,translated as meridian or channel,is a core component of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and has played a fundamental role in guiding the clinical practice of acupuncture for thousands of years.However,the essence of the meridian remains elusive and is a source of both confusion and debate for researchers.In this study,a“4 D”systemic view on the essence of the meridian,namely substantial,functional,chronological,and cultural dimensions,was proposed based on a review of the ancient medical classics,recent research developments,and results from clinical practice.Previous studies have primarily focused on the substantial dimension of the meridian system,with scant interpretation about its functional domain.Neither systemic data nor evaluations have been adequately documented.Additionally,a limited but increasing number of studies have focused on the chronological and cultural dimensions.More investigations that embody the holistic concept of TCM and integrate the systemic modes and advanced techniques with dominant diseases of TCM need to be performed to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the essence of meridians.The goal of this study is to yield useful information in understanding the essence of meridians and provide a reference and perspective for further research.
基金The National 973 Project(2005CB523306)Key project of the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(05DZ19747)
文摘The system of meridians and acupoints in the traditional Chinese medication （TCM） builds up a complex network. We analyze the features and properties of the system of meridians and acupoints as a complex network based on knowledge of TCM and mathematics. The system shows some important features of complex networks such as the small-world effect and the scale-free property. A preliminary discussion on the robustness of the meridian system as a complex network, and the biomedical functions of such robustness is also given.
基金supported by National Key R&D Program of China(2020YFE0201600)B&R Joint Laboratory of Eurasian Anthropology(18490750300)+1 种基金Shanghai Ziranerran Chinese Medicine Development Foundation(201501)Natural Science Foundation of China(31671297,91731303).
文摘Human meridian(Jingluo)system was hypothesized by traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)for thousands of years,suggest-ing 12 normal meridian channels going through respective organs,carrying fluid and energy,and laying thermal effects.Some treatments based on meridians have been proved effective.However,existence of meridians has never been confirmed,let alone the lack of measurement for meridian phenotypes.Thermal effect is one of the major phenotypes of meridian metabo-lism.Infrared photograph was employed to display the picture of meridians since 1970.Unfortunately,no satisfactory results have been obtained.It is possible that only when a certain meridian is activated will there be thermal effect for successful infrared photograph.In this study,13 types of tea were selected out of the herbs to activate the hypothesized 12 meridians for imagery taking.Forty-two volunteers took part in the experiment lasted for 13 days.Different tea was tested in different day.Infrared imageries of the human bodies were taken immediately after each tea was drunk.The highest temperatures of the fingers,palms,and above the organs were derived from the imageries and analyzed.The temperatures of the organs and fingers possibly connected by 12 hypothesized meridians rose together significantly following the meridian hypothesis.Infrared imageries showed quite clear shapes of the organs activated by different kinds of tea,e.g.,heart and kidneys by yel-low tea,etc.Some high temperature lines also matched the hypothetic meridians.Our work displayed the probable imageries of all the 12 hypothetic meridians for the first time,and proved with data that different foods may activate different organs following the meridian hypothesis,shedding light on a possible new method of targeted drug designs.Measurements of meridian phenotypes can be developed based on this method of activation.
文摘Biosystems are complex. Their physiology is well-controlled with various negative feedback signals and processes, it describes by opposite interfering effects which are characterized in the Eastern philosophy by Yin-Yang (Y-Y) pairs. Y-Y pairs could be described by the promoter-suppressor pairs in a wide range of physiologic signals creating the homeostasis of the complex system. This type of control appears as fluctuations from the average (mean) value of the signal. The mean carries an ineluctable fluctuation (called pink-noise or 1/f noise). All signals in homeostasis have equal entropy (SE = 1.8), which is the character of the complex equilibrium. The various controlling opposite signals (Y-Y) have different time-scales which change by aging. The processes with smaller time-scale are degraded by aging, but the pink-noise ensures that the deviations of the signals of the healthy homeostatic system remain constant. Meridians are connected to the general transport systems that combined the material and the information transport with the considerable transport networks, like blood, lymph, nerve, cell-junctions, mesenchymal “ground substance” cytoskeletons. The meridians in this meaning only virtual line averaged from multiple realized paths to connect two acupuncture points by the material, energy and information transport processes. The meridian network is designed by various coupling points (acupoints), which could be perturbed by actuating stimulus. Our objective is to describe the meridian system from complexity point of view.
基金Supported by Zhejiang Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Plan Project,No.2023ZL230。
文摘BACKGROUND Although gastroscopy is a commonly used diagnostic and therapeutic technique,postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction is prone to occur.Traditional Chinese medicine theory suggests that postoperative gastrointestinal disorders are related to spleen and stomach weakness.This study hypothesizes that the combination of acupoint application at the Ziwu Liuzhu acupoint and percutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation can promote postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery and alleviate stress reactions.AIM To investigate the effects of acupoint application of Ziwu Liuzhu combined with percutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation on postoperative gastrointestinal function recovery and stress response in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy surgery.METHODS A total of 120 patients who underwent gastroscopy surgery were selected and treated between October 2024 and January 2025.This study used a stratified block randomization method,and then allocated groups using computer-generated random number sequences(SAS 9.4 software).The groups were divided into two groups:A control group of 60 patients who received routine postoperative intervention measures,and an observation group of 60 patients who received acupuncture point application combined with transcutaneous acupoint electrical CONCLUSION The combination of percutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation in gastroscopy patients has been demonstrated to be both highly safe and effective.The benefits of this approach include the promotion of postoperative gastrointestinal function,the reduction of stress response,the attainment of optimal results,and the enhancement of patient satisfaction.
文摘The meridians,nervous system,and circulatory system are important components of tra‐ditional Chinese medicine and modern medicine.The meridians have a high degree of consistency with the distribution of the nervous and circulatory systems in modern medi‐cine,and are closely related in the process of disease treatment.Therefore,people often confuse the three.Based on the great advantages of acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of nervous system and circulatory system diseases,the author has made diver‐sified exploration on its relevance in terms of origin,physiological anatomy,physiological function and clinical application.It is believed that meridians have their relative indepen‐dence,and the nervous and circulatory systems cannot completely replace meridians.However,meridians are closely related to the nervous and circulatory systems,and in clinical practice,meridians can be combined with the nervous and circulatory systems to guide the treatment of diseases.
文摘The TCM philosophy of a meridian and associated channels pertains to the specific function of one or more organs. We define the <span style="font-family:Verdana;">Lung Primary Meridian (LUM) together with the </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Lung Sinew (LUSC), Divergent (LUDC), Luo-connecting (LULCC) Channels as a system of routes plus some parts of the body (such as muscles) to fulfil respiration, as a main function under different situations. There is very limited information about the Lung associated channels in classical literature of TCM. With a clear focus on the function of respiration, we have carried out a detailed analysis of the biomedical consequence of stimulating the LUM, analysed the roles played by LUSC, LUDC, and LULCC. The updated LUM and LUDC include acupoints of other meridians, serving the same purpose of performing satisfactory respiration starting from checking the quality of the inflow through the nose. The LUSC includes the respiratory muscles (plus the associated connective tissues) extending to various parts of the body. The muscles of the limb (as part of the LUSC) embrace the nerves that provide routes for somatosensory reflexes and play the role of locomotion, providing voluntary respiration via the pectoralis muscles. The muscles of LUSC are bounded by stiff connective tissue layers, forming compartments, and are part of the pulley system for various body locomotions. Within a compartment, the interstitial fluid, blood, lymph flows must be potent to protect the associated nerves related to LUM;the healthy state of the LUSC also provides freedom of various types of locomotion. The LULCC exists because the vagus nerve has a part of it passing through the spinal cords all the way down to the sacrum domain, with exiting nerve innervating two-third of the large intestine. The crucial steps of our deductions </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">are supported by experimental evidence based on modern neurophysiology and kinesiology. We discover that all the four channels stated above work as a unit system to allow respiration to be possible under various postures/conditions. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The complexity of structures and processes is eased off by providing 29 figures and 13 tables for the relevant muscles and nerves. In addition to respiration, the Lung system in TCM context includes interaction of this system with the sweat gland and neuroendocrine system;such aspects will be left to another study.</span>
文摘Hua Shou(1304-1386)styled himself Ying Ning Sheng.He was also known as Hua Boren.His ancestral home was in Xiang Town,Xu Prefecture(present Xuchang,Henan province).His birth place was Yizhen,Jiangsu province.Later he moved to Yuyao,Zhejiang province.He was one of the distinguished practitioners of the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties.His writings include Elaboration of the Fourteen Meridians(Shi Si Jing Fa Hui),Notes on Handwritten Copy of Basic Questions(Du Su Wen Chao),The Essentials for Physicians(Zhen Jia Shu Yao).
文摘OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the effects of external application of warm meridian medicated wine and polarized light therapy combined with acupuncture on pain management following vertebroplasty. METHODS:A total of 120 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures treated by vertebroplasty at our hospital were divided into four groups. The control group received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the Treatment Group Ⅰ received acupuncture alone, Treatment Group Ⅱ was treated with medicated wine for warming meridians alongside polarized light physiotherapy, and Treatment Group Ⅲ received a combination of medicated wine for warming meridians, polarized light therapy, and acupuncture. The clinical efficacy, pain thresholds at various time points, temperature pain threshold, electric pain threshold, quality of life, sleep quality index, lumbar dysfunction index, visual analog scale(VAS) scores, and incidence of adverse reactions were compared and analyzed across the four groups. RESULTS:The total clinical effective rate in Treatment Group Ⅲ was significantly higher than that in the control group, Treatment Group Ⅰ, and Treatment Group Ⅱ(P < 0.05). At 24 and 72 h post-treatment, the VAS scores, temperature pain thresholds, and electric pain thresholds in Treatment Group Ⅲ were significantly lower than those in the control group, Treatment Group Ⅰ, and Treatment Group Ⅱ(P < 0.05). Additionally, quality-of-life scores in Treatment Group Ⅲ were markedly higher compared to the control group, Treatment Group Ⅰ, and Treatment Group Ⅱ, while the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores, Oswestry Disability Index scores, and incidence of adverse reactions in Treatment Group Ⅲ were significantly lower than in the other groups(P < 0.05). CONCLUSION:The external application of warm meridian medicated wine and polarized light therapy combined with acupuncture significantly reduces postoperative pain following vertebroplasty, enhances lumbar function, and improves both sleep quality and overall quality of life for patients. This approach is recommended for clinical application.
基金Supported by Central Government Major Budget Adjustment Program(the Research on the Medicinal Properties of Brazilian Ginseng,Tonico,and Guarana,No.2060302)。
文摘It is well known that Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)has two outstanding academic characteristics:the holistic concept comes from Huang Di Nei Jing,and the syndrome differentiation and treatment comes from Shang Han Lun.These two characteristics denote the two major academic systems of TCM:one is the medical system of Huang Di Nei Jing,also named syndrome differentiation and treatment system of Zang-Fu organs and meridians,focuses on theoretical exploration,which highlights functional connection and emphasizes philosophical thinking.The treatment in this system is based on physiological functions by taking Zang-Fu organs as the main body,Qi,blood,essence,and body fluid as the auxiliary body,and the meridians and collaterals as the connection channels.The other is the syndrome differentiation and treatment system of the six meridians,which emphasizes clinical practice.It encompasses the idea that the six meridians govern various diseases,emphasizes the disease sites and divisional treatment,and pays attention to the precision and appropriateness of prescription-syndrome differentiation.These two academic systems,with mutual influences and relations,are both the essence and pearl of TCM,nevertheless,there are obvious differences between the two in clinical application,so they should be distinguished.This paper will elaborate on the connection and difference between them,and how to organically combine the two systems for better application in clinical practice of TCM.
文摘Objective:To study the clinical efficacy of applying the Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device combined with Chinese herbal enema for patients with acute and chronic pelvic inflammatory disease(PID).Methods:Sixty-two patients with acute and chronic PID admitted from January 2024 to October 2025 were selected and randomly divided into a standard group(n=31)and an experimental group(n=31).The standard group received conventional medication+Chinese herbal enema treatment.The experimental group received the Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device in addition to the standard group’s treatment.The clinical efficacy,changes in inflammatory markers,and pelvic improvement were compared between the two groups.Results:The excellent-good rate of treatment in the experimental group was higher than that in the standard group(p<0.05).The levels of various inflammatory factors in the experimental group were lower than those in the standard group(all p<0.05).The improvement in pelvic mass diameter and pelvic effusion depth in the experimental group was superior to that in the standard group(both p<0.05).Conclusion:The Meridian Flow Low-Frequency Therapy Device combined with Chinese herbal enema has a definite curative effect in treating pelvic inflammatory disease.It can effectively alleviate clinical symptoms,reduce inflammatory response,and promote the improvement of the pelvic environment.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province (No :2008 GZY0022)the Technology Plan of Jiangxi Provincial Department of Education (No :GJJ09280)
文摘Objective To study the effect of the serum derived from the rats treated with electroacupunctre at Stomach Meridian acupoints on the EGFR signal transduction pathway in gastric mucosal cells. Methods Sixty rats were randomly divided into 5 groups： model group, Stomach （ST） Meridian group, Gallbladder （GB） Meridian group, ST＋ PD153035 group and GB＋ PD153035 group. Water-immersion and restrained stress method was adopted for preparation of the stress-induced gastric ulcer rat model, and the gastric mucosa cells were separated by using pronase digestion method. Gastric mucosa cells were incubated respectively with PD153035, EGFR inhibitor and the serum; PLCγ-1＇s expression level in gastric mucosa cells was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay （ELISA）, and PKC activity by isotope mingling method; and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay （RT-PCR） was used for testing expression level of c-myc gene. Results The expression levels of PLCγ-1 ,PKC and c- myc gene were lower in gastric mucosa cells in the model group; there were relatively high expression levels of PLCγ-1 ,PKC and c-myc gene in the ST Meridian group and the GB Meridian group, with the highest expression levels of PLCγ-1 ,PKC and c-myc gene in the ST Meridian, and with a significant difference between the ST Meridian group and the GB Meridian group （P〈0.01 ） ; and relative lower expression levels of PLCγ-1, PKC and c-myc gene were seen in the ST ＋ PD153035 group and the GB ＋ PD153035 group; and there was a significant difference between the ST Meridian group and the ST ＋ PD153035 group （P〈0.01）. Conclusion There was a close correlation between the healing effect of electroacupuncture and activation of the EGFR signal transduction pathway in the impaired gastric mucosa cells, which was also one proof for the TCM theory： ＂There is relative specificity between the meridians and viscera＂.
文摘Objective To compare the clinical therapeutic effects on scapulohumeral periarthritis between kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians and shoulder three-needle therapy.Methods Fifty cases of scapulohumeral periarthritis were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group,25 cases for each.The cases in observation group were treated with kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians.For example,the case of Hand-Taiyin type was treated with Yújì （鱼际 LU 10） and the case of Hand-Yangming type was treated with Hégǔ （合谷 LI 4）,etc.The cases in control group were treated with shoulder three-needle therapy,in which,Jiānqián （肩前 Extral）,Jiānyú （肩髃 LI 15） and Jiānliáo （肩髎 TE 14） were selected;7 days of treatment made one session,totally 2 sessions were required.Results In observation group,the curative rate based on ROM of shoulder joint was 72.0% （18/25）,which was superior to that of 40.0% （10/25） in control group （P0.05）.After treatment,the improvements of McGill SF-MPQ score,VAS and PPI in observation group were all superior to those in control group （all P0.05）.Conclusion The kinetic acupuncture on the distal points of the affected meridians is advantageous at analgesia and motor improvements of shoulder joint in treatment of scapulohumeral periarthritis as compared with shoulder three-needle therapy.
基金supported by grants from National Natural Science Foundation of China (No .90209009)National Basic Research Program(No .2006CB504502)~~
文摘Objective To explore the relationship between connexin 43 and acupoints and meridians. Methods we detected one major skin gap junction connexin （connexin43, Cx43） in meridians and acupoints, and studied the expression of Cx43 in Zusanli （足三里 ST 36） acupoints compared with control non-acupoint regions in rats after acupuncture treatments. The expression of Cx43 was detected by using immunohisto- chemistry, immunoblotting, and RT-PCR for Cx43 protein and mRNA level. Results The results showed much more abundant Cx43 expression in some cells in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of rat at ST 36 acupoints and bladder and kidney meridians than that of in the controls. The mRNA and protein levels of Cx43 in acupoints were significantly higher than those of in the control points in non-acupuncture groups and even more so after acupuncture treatments. Conclusion Our research implied that connexins and gap junctions could have a close relationship to acupoints and meridians, and gap junctional intercellular communication might play an important role in the effect of acupuncture.
