Effect of electroacupuncture on knee osteoarthritis and relevant inflammatory factors: A randomized clinical trial: 电针治疗膝骨关节炎以及对相关炎症因子水平的影响

ObjectiveTo explore the treatment effects of electroacupuncture (EA), acupuncture with filiform needle, and western medication for knee osteoarthritis (KOA).MethodsIt was a randomized, controlled trial with the blinding of outcome assessors and statistician. 90 outpatients were diagnosed as KOA in Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Using the random number table, they were divided into a medication group, an acupuncture group and an EA group, 30 cases in each one. In the medication group, routine medication was provided with oral administration of celebrex for 21 days. Regular acupuncture was applied in the remaining groups, at Liángqiū (梁丘ST34), Xuèh?i (血海SP10), Dúbí (犊鼻ST35), Nèixīy?n (内膝眼EX-LE4), Yánglíngquán (阳陵泉GB34), Hèd?ng (鹤顶EX-LE2) and Sānyīnjiāo (三阴交SP6) and the needles were retained for 30 min. In the EA group, electric stimulation with low-frequency pulse current and dense wave was applied for 30 min on the basis of the treatment of the acupuncture group. The treatment was applied once daily at 1-day intervals after each 6-day treatment for a total of 21 days. Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and visual analogy scale (VAS) scores and levels of serum inflammatory factors (interleukin-1β [IL-1β] and tumor necrosis factor [TNF-α]) were used to assess the clinical therapeutic effect.ResultsFollowing treatment, there were significant differences in the WOMAC score in the medication, acupuncture, and EA groups after treatment (all P < 0.01). In the comparison among groups, after treatment, the WOMAC score in the EA group was lower than that in either the acupuncture or medication group (both P < 0.01). Compared to before treatment, VAS scores were significantly different in the medication group (3.95 ± 0.55 vs 5.75 ± 1.40), the acupuncture group (2.78 ± 0.38 vs 5.78 ± 1.44) and EA group (1.72 ± 0.38 vs 5.78 ± 1.39) separately after treatment (all P < 0.01). In the comparison among groups, after treatment, the VAS score in the EA group was lower than that in either the acupuncture or medication group (both P < 0.01). Compared to before treatment, IL-1β levels were significantly different in the medication group (31.53 ± 6.84 vs 63.33 ± 10.25), acupuncture group (31.70 ± 7.54 vs 63.90 ± 9.96) and the EA groups (23.43 ± 3.94 vs 63.10 ± 10.66) separately after treatment (all P < 0.01). IL-1β levels were significantly lower in the EA group than in the acupuncture and medication groups (both P < 0.01). Compared to before treatment, TNF-α levels were significantly different in the medication group (40.20 ± 6.09 vs 68.77 ± 11.13), the acupuncture group (39.60 ± 7.55 vs 68.33 ± 11.51) and the EA groups (22.17 ± 5.72 vs 68.97 ± 10.52) separately after treatment (all P < 0.01). TNF-α levels were significantly lower in the EA group than in the acupuncture and medication groups (both P < 0.01). After treatment, there were no significant differences in TNF-α and IL-1β levels between the acupuncture and medication groups (both P > 0.05). The total effective rates were 86.67% (26/30), 73.33% (22/30) and 70.00% (21/30) in the EA, acupuncture, and medication groups, respectively. The total effective rate was higher in the EA group than in either the acupuncture or medication group (both P < 0.05). In the whole process of trial, the adverse events occurred in three groups. In consideration of the potential association between these adverse events and acupuncture treatment, the acupuncture physiotherapists and experts classified the adverse events into the treatment relevance or non-treatment relevance within 24 h of occurrence.ConclusionAll three therapeutic methods alleviated clinical symptoms of KOA and reduced levels of relevant inflammatory factors in serum. EA with dense wave is more advantageous than the traditional acupuncture technique and routine medication and is therefore worthy of clinical application.     

Effects of electroacupuncture combined with hydrogel on the formation and changes in the glial scar in rats with spinal cord injuryOA

Objective: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture(EA) combined with oriented conductive bioprotein hydrogel(OCBH) on the recovery of nerve function in rats with complete spinal cord injury(SCI)and to explore its effect and mechanism on the formation and changes of glial scars.Methods: A total of 72 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into groups according to the treatment received. A rat model of complete SCI was constructed using a spinal cord transection.Behavioral assessment...     

Hewei Jiangni granule alleviates visceral hypersensitivity in a rat model of non-erosive reflux disease via transient receptor potential channel signaling

ObjectiveTo uncover the underlying mechanism of Hewei Jiangni granule (HWJNG) on non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) treatment by examining histological changes, gastrointestinal neurochemicals release and visceral hypersensitivity-related receptor expression in NERD model rats.MethodsA NERD rat model was established via a combination of basal sensitization and acid perfusion. HWJNG treatments at different doses were then administered. Pathological changes to tissues, mast cell (MC) activation, serum levels of esophageal visceral hypersensitivity-related neurochemicals, and transient receptor potential (TRP) receptor mRNA and protein levels were investigated.ResultsCompared with the control group, the expression of tryptase in MCs, the changes of intercellular space, and the serum levels of substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) and proteinase-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) increased in the model group (all P < .05). The expression of TRP vanilloid 1 (Trpv1) mRNA decreased in esophagus and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of the model group (P = .030 & P = .013), and the expression of TRP melastatin channel subfamily member 8 (Trpm8) mRNA decreased in the esophagus of model group (P < .01). The level of esophageal TRPV1 protein increased in the model group (P < .01) and the level of TRPM8 protein decreased in esophagus and DRG of the model group (both P < .05). Compared with the model group, the serum levels of SP, CGRP, and PAR2 in the medium-dose HWJNG group showed significant decreases (all P < .05). The expression of Trpv1 mRNA in esophagus and DRG of the HWJNG groups and the Omeprazole group remarkably decreased (all P < .05), as was the expression of Trpm8 mRNA in esophagus of the HWJNG groups (all P < .05).ConclusionHWJNG alleviated visceral hypersensitivity in NERD model rats by regulating TRP-mediated signaling. Our results indicate that HWJNG has potential as a therapeutic agent for NERD.     

Effect and mechanism of CyPA in radiosensitization of lung adenocarcinoma using CRISPR/Cas9 technology

ObjectiveTo explore the role of cyclophilin A (CyPA) in sensitization of lung adenocarcinoma to radiotherapy using CRISPR/Cas9 technology.MethodsA CyPA knockout human lung adenocarcinoma cell line H1975 was established by CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Groups included a control group (wildtype), CyPA knockout group, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction group, and TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction + CyPA knockout group. Each group was exposed to radiation at doses of 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 Gy. After 24 h, MTT assays were used to determine the survival rate of lung cancer cells and calculate radiosensitivity. The qPCR was used to measure mRNA expression of DDIT3, CDKN1A, and CDC25A associated with DNA damage repair.ResultsWithout irradiation, Fuzhengzengxiao decoction reduced the survival rate of lung adenocarcinoma cells (P < .0001). After irradiation, TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction, CyPA knockout, and TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction + CyPA knockout groups had reduced survival rates (P < .0001) and radiosensitivity was increased significantly. Expression of DDIT3, CDKN1A, and CDC25A was upregulated after knockout of CyPA (P < .0001). Expression of DDIT3 and CDC25A was increased after irradiation in wildtype cells treated with TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction (DDIT3, P < .0001; CDC25A, P = .0059). The TCM extract with Fuzhengzengxiao decoction + CyPA knockout group also had increased expression of DDIT3 and CDC25A after irradiation (P < .0001).ConclusionFuzhengzengxiao decoction significantly decreases the survival rate of lung cancer cells, and its mechanism may be related to radiosensitization by decreasing expression of CyPA and inducing G1/S cell cycle arrest.     

Influence of electroacupuncture on ghrelin and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling pathway in spontaneously hypertensive rats

ObjectiveTo investigate the influence of electroacupuncture (EA) on ghrelin and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (PI3K/Akt/eNOS) signaling pathway in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).MethodsEight Wistar-Kyoto rats were used as the healthy blood pressure (BP) control (normal group), and 32 SHRs were randomized into model group, EA group, EA plus ghrelin group (EA + G group), and EA plus PF04628935 group (a potent ghrelin receptor blocker; EA + P group) using a random number table. Rats in the normal group and model group did not receive treatment, but were immobilized for 20 min per day, 5 times a week, for 4 continuous weeks. SHRs in the EA group, EA + G group and EA + P group were immobilized and given EA treatment in 20 min sessions, 5 times per week, for 4 weeks. Additionally, 1 h before EA, SHRs in the EA + G group and EA + P group were intraperitoneally injected with ghrelin or PF04628935, respectively, for 4 weeks. The tail-cuff method was used to measure BP. After the 4-week intervention, the rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, and pathological morphology of the abdominal aorta was observed using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of ghrelin, nitric oxide (NO), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in the serum. Isolated thoracic aortic ring experiment was performed to evaluate vasorelaxation. Western blot was used to measure the expression of PI3K, Akt, phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) and eNOS proteins in the abdominal aorta. Further, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to measure the relative levels of mRNA expression for PI3K, Akt and eNOS in the abdominal aorta.ResultsEA significantly reduced the systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) (P < 0.05). HE staining showed that EA improved the morphology of the vascular endothelium to some extent. Results of ELISA indicated that higher concentrations of ghrelin and NO, and lower concentrations of ET-1 and TXA2 were presented in the EA group (P < 0.05). The isolated thoracic aortic ring experiment demonstrated that the vasodilation capacity of the thoracic aorta increased in the EA group. Results of Western blot and qRT-PCR showed that EA increased the abundance of PI3K, p-Akt/Akt and eNOS proteins, as well as expression levels of PI3K, Akt and eNOS mRNAs (P < 0.05). In the EA + G group, SBP and DBP decreased (P < 0.05), ghrelin concentrations increased (P < 0.05), and the concentrations of ET-1 and TXA2 decreased (P < 0.05), relative to the EA group. In addition, the levels of PI3K and eNOS proteins, the p-Akt/Akt ratio, and the expression of PI3K, Akt and eNOS mRNAs increased significantly in the EA + G group (P < 0.05), while PF04628935 reversed these effects.ConclusionEA effectively reduced BP and protected the vascular endothelium, and these effects may be linked to promoting the release of ghrelin and activation of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway.     

电针对创伤后应激障碍大鼠行为学及海马SYN、PSD95表达的影响（英文）

目的:观察“疏肝调肾”电针对创伤后应激障碍(PTSD)大鼠焦虑样行为、空间学习记忆能力以及海马SYN、PSD95表达的影响。方法:24只雄性SD大鼠随机分为空白组、模型组和电针组,每组8只。采用改良连续单一应激法制备PTSD模型,电针组选用“百会”“神庭”“肝俞”“肾俞”行电针操作,电针参数为强度1 mA,频率2/100 Hz,疏密波,每日治疗1次,每次20 min,共治疗21天。以旷场实验、高架十字迷宫、Morris水迷宫实验观察各组大鼠行为学表现的差异。以免疫组织化学法观察各组大鼠海马SYN、PSD95蛋白阳性表达的差异。结果:旷场实验中,与空白组对比,模型组大鼠总行程长度、穿越中央格区域时间百分比及穿越中央格区域次数均减少(all P<0.05)。与模型组比较,电针组大鼠总行程长度、穿越中央格区域时间百分比及穿越中央格区域次数均明显增加(all P<0.05)。高架十字迷宫实验中,与空白组比较,模型组大鼠开臂停留时间百分比及进入开臂次数百分比均降低(bothP<0.05)。与模型组对比,电针组大鼠开臂停留时间百分比及进入开臂次数百分比显著上升(bothP<...     

Electro-acupuncture promotes gut motility and alleviates functional constipation by regulating gut microbiota and increasing butyric acid generation in mice

ObjectiveAbnormalities in the gut microbiota and intestinal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels are implicated in the pathogenesis of functional constipation (FC). Electro-acupuncture (EA) has been shown to improve constipation-related symptoms and rebalance the gut microbiota. However, it is currently unknown whether the gut microbiota is a key mechanistic target for EA or how EA promotes gut motility by regulating the gut microbiota and SCFAs. Therefore, we assessed the effects of EA in FC mice and pseudo-germfree (PGF) mice to address these questions.MethodsForty female Kunming mice were randomly separated into a normal control group (n = 8), an FC group (n = 8), an FC + EA group (n = 8), a PGF group (n = 8) and a PGF + EA group (n = 8). The FC group and FC + EA group were treated with diphenoxylate to establish the FC model; the PGF group and PGF + EA group were given an antibiotic cocktail to initiate the PGF model. After maintaining the model for 14 d, mice in the FC + EA and PGF + EA groups received EA stimulation at the ST25 and ST37 acupoints, once a day, 5 times per week, for 2 weeks. Fecal parameters and intestinal transit rate were calculated to assess the efficacy of EA on constipation and gastrointestinal motility. Colonic contents were used to quantify gut microbial diversity using 16S rRNA sequencing, and measure SCFA concentrations using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.ResultsEA significantly shortened the first black stool defecation time (P < 0.05) and increased the intestinal transit rate (P < 0.01), and fecal pellet number (P < 0.05), wet weight (P < 0.05) and water content (P < 0.01) over 8 h, compared with the FC group, showing that EA promoted gut motility and alleviated constipation. However, EA treatment did not reverse slow-transit colonic motility in PGF mice (P > 0.05), demonstrating that the gut microbiota may play a mechanistic role in the EA treatment of constipation. In addition, EA treatment restored the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio and significantly increased butyric acid generation in FC mice (P < 0.05), most likely due to the upregulation of Staphylococcaceae microorganisms (P < 0.01).ConclusionEA-mediated resolution of constipation occurs through rebalancing the gut microbiota and promoting butyric acid generation.Please cite this article as: Xu MM, Guo Y, Chen Y, Zhang W, Wang L, Li Y. Electro-acupuncture promotes gut motility and alleviates functional constipation by regulating gut microbiota and increasing butyric acid generation in mice. J Integr Med. 2023; Epub ahead of print.     

Underlying mechnism of electroacupuncture for treating detrusor hyperreflexia after suprasacral spinal cord injury through the PACAP-cAMP signaling pathway: 基于PACAP-cAMP信号通路研究电针治疗骶上脊髓损伤后逼尿肌反射亢进型膀胱的效应机制

ObjectiveTo elucidate the underlying mechanism and effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the neurogenic bladder following suprasacral spinal cord injury (SSCI). A rat model of detrusor hyperreflexia after SSCI was established to examine the urodynamics, detrusor muscle tissue morphology, the protein and mRNA expression levels of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide (PACAP) and its receptor PAC1R, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) content in the detrusor muscle with a focus on the PACAP-cAMP signaling pathway.MethodA total of 72 female SD rats were randomized into control group and sham operation group (n=12 per group) by using a random number table. The remaining 48 rats were established into the model of detrusor hyperreflexia after SSCI. After successful modeling, these rats were randomly assigned to model, EA, and EA + PACAP6-38 groups (n=12 per group). The unsuccessful modeled rats were used for exploratory observation. For the rats in EA group, “Ciliao (BL32)” “Zhongji (CV3)”, and “Sanyinjiao (SP6)” were needled and stimulated by EA. The PACAP receptor antagonist PACAP6-38 was administered intraperitoneally in the EA + PACAP6-38 group before EA, and EA was applied for seven consecutive days. After treatment, the urodynamics of the rats were analyzed, and hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to examine rat bladder detrusor tissue morphology. The expressions of PACAP-38 and PAC1R were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The mRNA expression levels of PACAP-38 and PAC1R were examined by RT-qPCR, while cAMP content was detected by ELISA.Results(1) Compared with sham operation group, it was exhibited disarray in the transitional epithelium cells of the bladder in the modeled rats. The intercellular space was significantly widened, accompanied by inflammatory cell infiltration and noticeable tissue edema. Both the bladder initial pressure and leak point pressure of the rats were higher (P < 0.01), whereas the maximum cystometric capacity and bladder compliance were lower (P < 0.01). The protein and mRNA expression levels of PACAP-38 and PAC1R in the detrusor muscle, together with the cAMP content, were lower (P < 0.05). (2) Compared with the model rats, the EA group showed reduced inflammatory response in the detrusor muscle tissue, with decreased monocyte infiltration and less severe tissue edema. The bladder smooth muscle cells exhibited increased integrity, and there was decreased cellular tissue edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, and fibroplasia. The bladder initial pressure and leak point pressure were lower (P < 0.05), while the maximum cystometric capacity and bladder compliance were higher (P < 0.01). The protein and mRNA expression levels of PACAP-38 and PAC1R in the detrusor muscle, along with the cAMP content, were higher (P < 0.05). (3) Compared to the EA group, the EA + PACAP6-38 group showed a less organized arrangement of muscle fibers in the detrusor muscle tissue, larger intercellular space, monocyte infiltration, and considerable tissue edema. The changes in bladder initial pressure and leak point pressure were not significant (P > 0.05), while the maximum cystometric capacity and bladder compliance were lower (P < 0.05). The changes in the protein and mRNA expressions of PACAP-38 within the detrusor muscle were not significant (P > 0.05), whereas the protein and mRNA expressions of PAC1R were reduced (P < 0.05), and the cAMP content within the detrusor muscle was lower (P < 0.05).ConclusionEA can ameliorate the uninhibited contractile condition of the detrusor muscle in the bladder following SSCI. By mediating the PACAP-cAMP signaling pathway, it reduces the pathological damage to the detrusor muscle, thereby improving bladder function.     

Seasonal photoperiodic influence of pineal melatonin on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis-hippocampal-receptor in male ratsOA

Background: Based on the effect of seasonal changes on human visceral function, this study investigated the impact of seasonal photoperiod of the pineal body on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis-hippocampal-receptor in rats, aiming to reveal the mechanism by which pineal gland melatonin regulates the seasonal secretion of hippocampal neurotransmitters.Methods: Vernal equinox, summer solstice, autumn equinox, and winter solstice were selected as four experimental time points, and rats were rand...     

电针联合雷火灸治疗寒湿型膝骨性关节炎:随机对照试验

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical effect differences of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) with cold-damp type between electroacupuncture (EA) combined with thunder-fire moxibustion and medication.MethodsA total of 72 cases of KOA patients with cold-damp type were randomly divided into a combined treatment group of EA and thunder-fire moxibustion (combined treatment group) and a medication group, 36 cases in each group. In the combined treatment group, the acupoints for EA were Dúbí (犊鼻 ST35), Nèixīyăn (内膝眼 EX-LE4), Zúsānlĭ (足三里 ST36), Yánglíngquán (阳陵泉 GB34), Yīnlíngquán(阴陵泉 SP9), Xuèhăi (血海 SP10), Liángqiū (梁丘 ST34) and Hèdĭng (鹤顶 EX-LE2). During the period of EA, the suspending thunder-fire moxibustion was applied to Shénquè (神阙 CV8) and Guānyuán (关元 CV4). In the medication group, diclofenac sodium double release intestine-sol capsule and Fugui gutong capsules were prescribed for oral administration. The treatment for 14 days was taken as one course and the consecutive 2 courses of treatment were required in each group. Before and after treatment, as well as in the follow-up visit, the pain score (visual analogue scale, VAS), the knee function score(Western Ontario and McMaster University, WOMAC, the expressions of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in the joint fluid as well as the difference in the clinical therapeutic effect were observed in the two groups separately.Results(1) The pain score: compared with those before treatment, the VAS scores were all reduced after treatment and in the follow-up in the two groups (all P < 0.05). After treatment and in the follow-up, VAS scores in the combined treatment group were lower than those in the medication group (both P < 0.05). (2) The knee function score: WOMAC score of each item, i.e. pain, stiffness and function, as well as the total score after treatment and the follow-up were all lower than those before treatment in the patients of the two groups (all P < 0.05). The score of each item, i.e. pain and function, as well as the total score in the combined treatment group were all lower than those in the medication group after treatment and the follow-up respectively (all P < 0.05). (3)The expressions of IL-6 and TGF-β1: the level of IL-6 in the joint fluid was reduced after treatment as compared with that before treatment in either group and the level of TGF-β1 was increased, indicating the statistical differences (all P < 0.05). After treatment, the level of IL-6 in the combined treatment group was lower than that in the medication group and the level of TGF-β1 was higher than that of the medicating group, indicating the statistical significance (both P < 0.05). (4)The total effective rate in the combined treatment group was 97.1%, higher than 78.8% in the medication group, indicating the statistical significance (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe clinical effect of the combined treatment of electroacupuncture and the thunder-fire moxibustion is remarkable on knee osteoarthritis of cold-damp type. The combined treatment presents a more advantageous at the sustainability of the therapeutic effect as compared with medication.     

Combining electroacupuncture and transcranial direct current stimulation as an adjuvant therapy enhances spontaneous conversation and naming in subacute vascular aphasia: A retrospective analysis

ObjectiveEmerging evidence shows the effectiveness of speech and language therapy (SLT); however, precise therapeutic parameters remain unclear. Evidence for the use of adjunctive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to treat post-stroke aphasia (PSA) is promising; however, the utility of combining tDCS and electroacupuncture (EA) has not yet been analyzed. This study assessed the therapeutic consequences of EA and tDCS coupled with SLT in subacute PSA patients who were also undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on subacute (< 6 months) PSA patients who were divided into three groups: patients who received EA plus tDCS (acupuncture group), patients who underwent tDCS (tDCS group), and patients who experienced conventional therapy (HBOT + SLT). All subjects underwent 21 days of treatment and also received conventional treatment. The aphasia battery of Chinese (ABC) was used to score pre- and post-intervention status.ResultsThe analysis comprised 238 patients. Cerebral infarction was the most frequent stroke type (137 [57.6%]), while motor (66 [27.7%]) and global aphasia (60 [25.2%]) were the most common types of aphasia. After 21 days of intervention, the ABC scores of all patients were improved. The acupuncture group had the highest ABC scores, but only repetition, naming, and spontaneous speech were statistically improved (P < 0.01). Post-hoc tests revealed significant improvement in word retrieval in the acupuncture and tDCS groups (P < 0.01, P = 0.037), while the acupuncture group had additional significant improvement in spontaneous conversation (P < 0.01).ConclusionCombining acupuncture and tDCS as an adjuvant therapy for subacute PSA led to significant spontaneous speech and word retrieval improvements. Future prospective, multi-ethnic, multi-center trials are warranted.     

针刺应答是否随针刺剂量增加而增大:一项基于睡眠剥夺大鼠的临床前研究

BackgroundThe effectiveness of acupuncture for insomnia and insomnia-related anxiety and depression has been widely investigated in clinical trials. However, whether higher dosage (more frequent) acupuncture can bring greater responses (a greater size of effect) is less understood.ObjectiveThis study is designed to investigate whether a five-times weekly (5 Ts/w) electroacupuncture (EA) treatment is better than a three-times weekly (3 Ts/w) EA in alleviating sleep deprivation, and sleep disturbance-induced cognitive dysfunctions and negative emotions in rats through four various behavioral tests.MethodsForty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control group (n = 10), model group (n = 12), EA-3 Ts/w group (n = 12), and EA-5 Ts/w group (n = 12). Except for the control group, the other three groups were established as chronic sleep deprivation models via the modified multi-platform water environment methodology. Then, rats in both EA-3 Ts/w group and EA-5 Ts/w group received corresponding dosage of EA therapy, respectively. After modeling and interventions, all four groups received four behavioral tests as follows: (1) sleep behavioral monitoring and evaluation was achieved by Comprehensive Lab Animal Monitoring System (CLAMS). (2) Cognitive functions were assessed by Novel Object Recognition (NOR) test. (3) Depressive-like behaviors was evaluated by Open-Field (OF) test. (4) Anxiety-like behaviors was appraised by Elevated Plus-Maze (EPM) test. After finishing the behavioral tests, the hippocampus of each rat was removed and its synaptic structure changes were observed under electron microscope.Results(1) CLAMS: two EA groups derived more sleep time within 24 h than the model group (both P<0.05), and no statistical differences was found between these two EA groups (P>0.05). (2) NOR test: NOR ratio in the EA-3 Ts/w group was higher than that of the model group (P<0.05) but lower than that of either the control group (P<0.05) or the EA-5 Ts/w group (P<0.05). (3) OF test: the difference of horizontal movements between the EA-3 Ts/w group and the EA-5 Ts/w group was not significant (P>0.05), although both of them were lower than that of the control group (both P<0.05) but higher than that of the model group (P<0.05). (4) EPM test: no significant decline of open-arm total time (OT) was found in EA-3Ts/w group (P>0.05) but was found in both the model group (P<0.05) and the EA-5Ts/w group (P<0.05) compared to the control group.Conclusion(1) Five-week EA treatment can partially mitigate cognitive dysfunctions, anxiety-like behaviors, and depressive behaviors in rats with sleep deprivation, and this effect might be associated with the repairs on mitochondrial damage in hippocampal neurons. (2) There is insufficient evidence supporting 3 Ts/w EA treatment is less effective than 5 Ts/w EA treatment in mitigating sleep deprivation symptoms and depressive behaviors induced by sleep deprivation among rats. (3) 5 Ts/w EA treatment might be more effective than 3Ts/w EA treatment in attenuating sleep deprivation-induced cognitive impairments while it might further increase rat's anxiety-like behaviors at the same time.     

延髓头端腹外侧区在电针预处理减轻心肌缺血再灌注损伤中的作用（英文）

目的:观察电针预处理对心肌缺血再灌注损伤大鼠延髓头端腹外侧区(RVLM)神经元活动的影响,探讨电针改善心肌缺血再灌注损伤的中枢调控机制。方法:72只SD大鼠随机抽取12只作为电针预处理+RVLM核团损毁组(电针+损毁组),剩余60只大鼠随机分为假手术组、模型组、电针预处理组(电针组),每组均20只。除假手术组外,模型组、电针组和电针+损毁组采用冠状动脉左前降支结扎法建立心肌缺血再灌注损伤模型。电针组大鼠选择“神门”“通里”进行电针预干预,刺激电流强度1 mA,频率2 Hz,20 min/次/天,于造模前共干预7天。电针+损毁组在双侧RVLM微量注射神经元凋亡病毒3周后行与电针组相同的电针干预,之后建立心肌缺血再灌注损伤模型。模型组不予电针干预。采用Powerlab生理记录仪记录分析各组大鼠造模前、结扎后30 min及再灌注120 min的ST段位移值及心律失常评分;ELISA试剂盒检测各组大鼠血清心肌钙蛋白(cTnl)含量;免疫荧光染色检测假手术组、模型组、电针组RVLM脑区c-fos蛋白表达;Plexon多通道电生理采集系统记录假手术组、模型组、电针组RVLM脑区神经元放电和场电位情...     

Effect of the pineal gland on 5-hydroxytryptamine and γ-aminobutyric acid secretion in the hippocampus of male rats during the summer and winter

ObjectiveThe present study aimed to investigate the effect of seasonal variation on neurotransmitter release in the hippocampus of normal rats and rats with pineal excision.MethodsTwo time points, the summer and winter solstice, which are the longest and shortest days of the year, respectively, were selected. Male Sprague–Dawley rats that underwent a sham operation without pineal excision were included as a control group. The concentrations of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) were determined by radioimmunoassays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively.ResultsIn the winter, the 5-HT and GABA levels in normal rats exhibited a significant difference compared with those in the operation group (P < .01). A difference was also noted in GABA levels between the normal group and the sham operation group (P < .05). The concentrations of 5-HT and GABA in the hippocampal tissues of the normal group exhibited a seasonal rhythm consisting of elevation during the summer and reduction during the winter (P < .01), while the GABA levels in the sham operation group exhibited a significant difference, with elevation during the summer and reduction during the winter (P < .01). In the operation group, GABA showed the same trend (P < .01).ConclusionThe seasonal rhythm of neurotransmitter secretion by the hippocampus (5-HT and GABA) consisted of elevation during the summer and reduction during the winter. During the winter, the pineal gland exhibited a reverse regulatory effect on the secretion of 5-HT and GABA in the hippocampus, and it exhibited seasonal selectivity with regard to the regulation of 5-HT.     

针刺与药物对卵巢储备功能低下患者生殖激素的影响:前瞻性队列研究

Objectiveto observe whether electro-acupuncture (EA) is better in improving hormone levels among women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) compared with oral medicine [Chinese herbs with or without hormone replacement therapy (HRT)] that is often used in gynecology clinics in China.Methodseligible participants entered the EA group or medication group according to their preferences. Participants in the EA group received EA treatment, and participants the medication group received herbal decoction alone or combined with HRT. Reproductive hormone levels of the participants were tested before and during treatment in both groups.Resultsa total of 80 women with DOR were screened and 57 cases were included (29 in the EA group and 28 in the medication group) in the final analysis. The differences in the change from baseline between the EA and medication group in mean follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were -6.6 (95% CI, -17.03 to 3.72), (P = 0.848) and -7.09 (95% CI, -15.86 to 1.66), (P = 0.539) at weeks 12 and 24, respectively. The proportion of women with regular FSH levels in the EA and medication group was 51.3% vs 32.1% at week 12 (P = 0.134) and 51.3% vs 25.0% at week 24 (P = 0.038).ConclusionEA might influence regulating the levels of FSH, luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen and the FSH/LH ratio, and no difference was found between the effects of EA and oral medicine in changes of reproductive hormone levels.     

艾灸对类风湿性关节炎家兔滑膜细胞CyclinD1及CDK4蛋白表达的影响

目的:观察艾灸对实验性类风湿性关节炎(RA)家兔滑膜细胞的细胞周期蛋白D1(CyclinD1)及周期蛋白依赖激酶CDK4的影响,探索艾灸调控实验性RA家兔滑膜细胞增殖的分子信号机制。方法:以佐剂性关节炎(AA)作为RA疾病模型,艾灸实验性RA家兔双侧"肾俞"穴,采用Western-blot方法检测治疗前后家兔关节滑膜细胞的cyclinD1和CDK4蛋白表达。结果:RA模型组CyclinD1和CDK4蛋白表达明显高于空白组(P0.01),艾灸组CyclinD1和CDK4蛋白表达明显低于模型组(P0.01)。结论:艾灸抑制RA滑膜细胞CyclinD1及CDK4蛋白的过度表达,可能是其调控RA滑膜细胞增殖的重要分子机制。     

电针预处理对心肌缺血再灌注大鼠线粒体能量代谢的影响

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of electroacupuncture pretreatment on mitochondrial energy metabolism in the rats with myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI).MethodsA total of 60 SPF Wistar rats were randomly divided into a sham-operation group (sham group), a myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury group (MIRI group) and an electroacupuncture pretreatment group (EA group), 20 rats in each one. The rats in the sham group and the MIRI group were binded for 7 days, once a day, 20 min each time. On the 8^th day, the sample was collected after the heart exposed for 50 min in thoractomy in the sham group and the sample was collected after ischemia for 20 min and reperfusion for 30 min in thoractomy in the MIRI group. In the EA group, the pretreatment intervention with electroacupuncture was applied at "Nèiguān (内关PC6)", "Guānyuán (关元CV4)" and "Zúsānlĭ (足三里ST36)" in the rats for 7 days, once a day, 20 min each time. On the 8^th day, after ischemia for 20 min and reperfusion for 30 min in thoractomy, the sample was collected in the EA group. The changes in ST_Ⅱ segment of electroacardiogram (ECG) were observed and measured. Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the concentrations of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI)were detected. Using nitro blue tetrazolium chloride monohydrate (NBT) staining, the myocardial infarction weight percentage was measured. Using ELISA, the concentrations of mitochondrial adenosine monophosphate (AMP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP)and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)were detected.Results(1) ST_Ⅱ changes: in 20 min of ligation, compared with the sham group, the ST_Ⅱ segment of electrocardiograph (ECG) was elevated significantly in the MIRI group and EA group (both P < 0.01), but the elevation range in the EA group was lower than that of the MIRI group (P < 0.01). After reperfusion for 30 min, the ST_Ⅱ segment was fallen by over 50% in the MIRI group and the EA group. Simultaneously, the ST_Ⅱ segment in the EA group was lower than that of the MIRI group (P < 0.01). (2) Regarding myocardial infarction weight percentage, compared with the sham group, the infarction weight was larger in the MIRI group and the EA group (both P < 0.05) and the infarction weight in the EA group was lower than that of the MIRI group (P < 0.05). (3) Regarding the levels of serum cTnt and cTnI, compared with the sham group, the levels of serum cTnT and cTnI were higher in the MIRI group and the EA group (all P < 0.01) and the levels of cTnT and cTnI in the EA group were lower than that of the MIRI group (both P < 0.01). (4) Regarding the concentrations of AMP, ADP and ATP, compared with the sham group, ATP concentration was lower in the MIRI group and the EA group (both P < 0.01) and the concentrations of AMP and ADP were higher (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Compared with the MIRI group, ATP concentration was higher in the EA group (P < 0.05) and the concentrations of AMP and ADP were lower (both P < 0.01).ConclusionsElectroacupuncture pretreatment reduces the elevation of ECG ST_Ⅱ segment, decreases the concentrations of myocardial injury markers, cTnT and cTnI and regulates the transfer among AMP, ATP and ADP. The protective effect of electroacupuncture pretreatment may result from the regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism.     

Integrated network pharmacology and experimental verification to explore the mechanism of Sangqi Qingxuan formula against hypertensive vascular remodelingOA

Objective: To investigate the bioactive components of Sangqi Qingxuan formula(SQQX), predict the pharmacological targets, and explore the mechanism of hypertensive vascular remodeling(HVR).Methods: Network pharmacology was adopted to predict how SQQX acts in HVR. The effectiveness was assessed by blood pressure measurements and pathological morphology observation based on a spontaneously hypertensive rat model, while the mechanism of SQQX on HVR was validated by immunohistochemistry(IHC) and wes...     

Correlation of gut microbiota and neurotransmitters in a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder

ObjectiveTo determine the effect of gut microbiota on a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and explore the correlation of gut microbiota with behavior and neurotransmitters.MethodsWe established a single prolonged stress (SPS) model to examine the pathogenesis of PTSD on rat behavior, gut microbiota, and neurotransmitter levels. Rats were separated into control and model groups, and neurotransmitter levels were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Then, 16 S rRNA sequencing was used to compare the gut microbiota between the control and model groups.ResultsCompared with those in the control group, freezing time significantly increased, while number of standing upright, crossing frequency, time spent in the central arena, and total distance traveled were significantly reduced in the model group after exposure to SPS (all P < .05). Meanwhile, serotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, levels in the brain in the model group were significantly lower than those the control group (P = .0332). In addition, changes were observed in the gut microbiota diversity and relative abundances of bacterial phyla, orders, families, and genera in the model group. Especially, changes in Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, and Proteobacteria levels were most pronounced after SPS exposure. Correlation analysis showed that the strongest positive correlation was found between Bacteroidaceae and 5-HT (P = .0009). Moreover, RF32 abundance was the most negatively related to 5-HT (P = .0009), crossing frequency (P = .0007), and total distance (P = .0003).ConclusionOur results suggest that SPS model rats showed differences in behavior, neurotransmitter levels, and gut microbiota with control rats. Moreover, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, and Proteobacteria were most relevant to the exhibited fear-like and anxiety-like behaviors and significant serotonin content reduction in SPS model rats.     

Effects of different courses of moxibustion treatment on intestinal flora and inflammation of a rat model of knee osteoarthritis

Objective: This study was done to determine the effects of different courses of moxibustion on a rat knee osteoarthritis(KOA) model, and explore the dose–effect relationship of moxibustion on KOA from the perspectives of intestinal flora and inflammatory factors.Methods: Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: normal, model, moxibustion for 2 weeks,moxibustion for 4 weeks and moxibustion for 6 weeks groups(n = 5 each group). A KOA rat model was induced by monosodium iodoacetate, and ...