OBJECTIVE:To observe the characteristics of acupoint sensitization in patients with essential hypertension,analyze the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of each acupoint,and summarize the clinical cha...OBJECTIVE:To observe the characteristics of acupoint sensitization in patients with essential hypertension,analyze the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of each acupoint,and summarize the clinical characteristics of high-sensitivity acupoints.METHODS:This study employed a cross-sectional matched case-control design and enrolled a total of 448 volunteer participants,including 224 patients with hypertension and 224 healthy controls.The main outcome measures included measuring the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of 16 highly sensitive acupoints in both hypertensive subjects and healthy controls.The receiver operating characteristic curve method was used to evaluate the sensitivity of each acupoint.Additionally,the rules of mechanical pain threshold,tenderness threshold sensitization rate,and degree of sensitization of each acupoint in hypertension patients were summarized to identify the optimal highly sensitive acupoints related to hypertension.RESUITS:The mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of hypertensive patients were significantly lower than those of healthy subjects,the difference was statistically significant(P<0.001),indicating that the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of hypertensive patients at various points had a downward trend.Acupoints with high incidence of sensitization in hypertensive patients include Quchi(LI11),Taichong(LR3),Fenglong(ST40),Xingjian(LR2),Taixi(KI3)and Renying(ST9).CONCLUSION:This study successfully achieved the objective of exploring acupoint sensitization in patients with primary hypertension.Hypertensive patients exhibited significantly lower mechanical pain thresholds and pressure pain thresholds compared to healthy subjects.These findings provide clinical evidence for acupoint selection in acupuncture treatment for primary hypertension.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a recurrent chronic inflammatory bowel disease and its clinical assessment relies mainly on invasive examinations with a delayed response.The acupoint sensitization theory proposes that viscer...Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a recurrent chronic inflammatory bowel disease and its clinical assessment relies mainly on invasive examinations with a delayed response.The acupoint sensitization theory proposes that visceral pathological states can dynamically manifest at specific body surface sites through segmental neural connections,presenting as functional or morphological changes in acupoints.This article outlines the pathological progression of UC,and then systematically reviews the clinical manifestations and neurobiological mechanisms of acupoint sensitization,covering multiple layers including viscero-somatic afferent convergence and spinal segmental sensitization,cutaneous neurogenic inflammation and peripheral sensitization amplification,sympathetic-sensory coupling and bidirectional somato-visceral modulation.On this basis,combined with limited existing clinical outcomes of acupoint sensitization in UC patients,the potential application value of this theory in UC disease assessment and acupuncture intervention is tentatively discussed.Finally,this paper points out the shortcomings of current research on acupoint sensitization in UC and proposes that future studies should focus on sensitization characterization of UC at different stages and lesion locations,as well as their correlations with disease activity.It also suggests that the development of multimodal and quantitative detection devices will advance the translational application of the acupoint sensitization theory in precise acupuncture treatment for UC.展开更多
Objectives:To investigate the clinical and therapeutic effects of acupuncture at the pain-sensitive points of patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain and optimize the acupuncture treatment for chronic nonspeci...Objectives:To investigate the clinical and therapeutic effects of acupuncture at the pain-sensitive points of patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain and optimize the acupuncture treatment for chronic nonspecific low back pain.Methods:Using the FDK 20 pressure algometer,the pain-sensitive points were probed in 30 patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.The top 5 points that elicited the most painful reaction were selected and stimulated with an even-needling technique after deqi.The needles were retained for 30 min.TDP irradiation was concurrently administered.The treatment was administered once daily on weekdays(Monday to Friday) and discontinued for 2 days during the weekend(Saturday and Sunday).The treatment lasted for 2 consecutive weeks.The changes in the range of motion(ROM) of the lumbar vertebrae,visual analogous scale(VAS) score,and the Oswestry disability index(ODI) score of the lumbar vertebrae were assessed before treatment and after 5 and 10 treatment sessions.Results:Compared with the data before treatment,the spinal ROM increased after 5 and 10 treatment sessions in the patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.The ROM after 10 treatment sessions was remarkably wider than that after 5 treatments,with statistical significance(all P<0.05).Compared with that before treatment,the immediate VAS score showed statistically significant reduction after 5 treatment sessions(P<0.05).Moreover,compared with the score after 5 treatment sessions,the immediate VAS score reduced after 10 treatment sessions,but without any statistical significance.After 5 and 10 treatment sessions,the ODI score was reduced in the patients and it was significantly different from that before treatment(both P<0.05).Conclusion:Acupuncture at the pain-sensitive points alleviates pain and improves lumbar vertebral function in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.Thus,further research is needed to confirm whether acupuncture can be a better intervention for chronic nonspecific low back pain.展开更多
Objective To investigate the distribution characteristics of somatic hyperalgesic acupoints in patients with functional dyspepsia(FD),at the same time,the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve was used with heal...Objective To investigate the distribution characteristics of somatic hyperalgesic acupoints in patients with functional dyspepsia(FD),at the same time,the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve was used with healthy subjects to evaluate the distribution characteristics of hyperalgesic acupoints,and summarize the objective rule of acupoint hyperalgesia in patients with FD,aiming to provide objective evidence for the acupoint sensitization theory and the scientific basis for optimizing acupoint selection strategies of acupuncture for FD.Methods A case-control study design was adopted with 40 patients with FD(FD group)and 38 healthy subjects(control group).The pressure pain threshold(PPT)and pain tolerance threshold(PTT)of acupoints on the abdomen,lumbar region,and lower limbs were measured by a pressure pain tester in both groups.The differences between the two groups were analyzed by statistical analysis,and the diagnostic efficacy of the sensitized acupoints was evaluated by ROC curve.Results(1)The PPT in the FD group was lower than that in the control group at Tianshu(ST25)(Right:10.8 v.s.12.6,P=0.049)and Sanyinjiao(SP6)(Right:16.3 v.s.19.1,P=0.023),respectively.(2)Compared with the control group,the PTT in the FD group was lower at Zhongwan(CV12)(22.8 v.s.28.6,P=0.002),Tianshu(ST25)(Left:22.0 v.s.28.2,P=0.001.Right:22.6 v.s.27.3,P=0.016),Zusanli(ST36)(Left:21.3 v.s.26.6,P=0.007.Right:51.8 v.s.57.6,P=0.030),Shangjuxu(ST37)(Left:46.0 v.s.52.7,P=0.034.Right:46.6 v.s.58.4,P=0.009),Xiajuxu(ST39)(Left:44.9 v.s.54.1,P=0.021.Right:44.8 v.s.55.6,P=0.006),Yinlingquan(SP9)(Left:31.6 v.s.44.1,P=0.001.Right:33.5 v.s.42.8,P=0.003),Sanyinjiao(SP6)(Left:33.8 v.s.43.7,P=0.015.Right:33.6 v.s.41.5,P=0.013),and Xiaochangshu(BL27)(Left:41.9 v.s.52.8,P=0.007.Right:46.5 v.s.55.2,P=0.038)separately.(3)The diagnostic efficacy of left Yinlingquan(SP9)was the best(AUC=0.72,95%CI:0.61 to 0.83,P<0.001),and the optimal cutoff value was<44.Zhongwan(CV12)(AUC=0.68)on the abdomen and left Tianshu(ST25)(AUC=0.69)and right Xiajuxu(ST39)(AUC=0.67)on the lower limbs,and the left Xiaochangshu(BL27)(AUC=0.68)on the back all demonstrated the moderate diagnostic efficacy(AUC:0.67 to 0.69).Furthermore,except for the PPT at the right Tianshu(ST25)(P=0.17)and the PTT at the right Xiaochangshu(BL27)(P=0.05),the results of ROC analysis for all the other acupoints showed statistical significance(P<0.05),suggesting that the sensitization of these acupoints may be valuable potentially for the diagnosis of FD.Conclusion Patients with FD exhibit an objectively quantifiable hyperalgesic phenomenon,primarily characterized by a reduced PTT.The distribution of sensitized acupoints follows“horizontal distribution of acupoints”and“longitudinal division of meridians”,which may provide a scientific basis for acupoint selection in acupuncture for FD.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To explore the sensitization acupoints of women with primary dysmenorrhea(PD)by comparing infrared radiation temperatures between acupoints and non-acupoints.METHODS:We tested 10 acupoints of every woman wit...OBJECTIVE:To explore the sensitization acupoints of women with primary dysmenorrhea(PD)by comparing infrared radiation temperatures between acupoints and non-acupoints.METHODS:We tested 10 acupoints of every woman with PD and healthy subjects on premenstrual,menstrual,and postmenstrual days using an infrared imaging device.The primary outcome was the absolute value of body surface temperature difference(AVTD)between the left and right sides of the same testing point.RESULTS:A total of 58 PD patients and 57 healthy volunteers completed the test from May 2016 to May 2017.Compared with the healthy group,we observed a significant reduction and increase in the AVTD in Taichong(LR3)and Sanyinjiao(SP6),respectively,during menstrual days in the PD group(P=0.01;P=0.04);while during postmenstrual days,all AVTDs of Shuiquan(KI5),Diji(SP8),and Xuehai(SP10)were diminished in the PD group(P=0.01;P=0.03;P=0.01,respectively).No significant differences in AVTD were detected at any other points or testing times.CONCLUSIONS:Compared with the healthy group,the AVTDs of Taichong(LR3),Sanyinjiao(SP6),Shuiquan(KI5),Diji(SP8),and Xuehai(SP10)at menstruationrelevant points of PD patients were sensitized,providing a reference for the selection of acupoints in the treatment of PD.展开更多
Acupoints and trigger points in traditional Chinese medicine represent two different minimally invasive therapy systems-based,respectively,on traditional acupuncture and dry needles.Many studies argue that trigger poi...Acupoints and trigger points in traditional Chinese medicine represent two different minimally invasive therapy systems-based,respectively,on traditional acupuncture and dry needles.Many studies argue that trigger points and traditional acupoints are conceptually similar because they generally have identical locations on the human body.However,whether trigger points contribute to the formation of the traditional acupuncture technique is controversial.Although many relevant studies have been conducted,this controversy continues to hinder the development of both disciplines.Recently,researchers of Chinese acupuncture have proposed the“acupoint sensitization”theory,which postulates that traditional acupoints may be sensitized by diseases,environments,and therapies.This turns them into a“sensitized state.”Recent studies suggest that trigger points and sensitized acupoints share similar biological properties.To clarify the above-mentioned confusion,we reviewed relevant studies on these two concepts and attempted to analyze their relationship.In this paper,we provide a general summary of acupoint sensitization theory and sensitized acupoints.We then compare trigger points with sensitized acupoints by categorizing their similarities and differences,including location and range,pathological morphology,pain perception,surface temperature effects,and bioelectrical properties.We believe that,because trigger points and sensitized acupoints have many shared properties,they might constitute“the same book with different covers.”展开更多
Objective:To elucidate the differences in manual acupuncture effectiveness at sensitized points by investigating the mechanisms of local skin action at different sensitization points in rats with knee osteoarthritis(K...Objective:To elucidate the differences in manual acupuncture effectiveness at sensitized points by investigating the mechanisms of local skin action at different sensitization points in rats with knee osteoarthritis(KOA).Methods:Forty SpragueeDawley rats were equally divided into control,model(1 mg of mono-iodoacetate into the right knee joint cavity),sham operation,manual acupuncture at right Tianjing acupoint(MAR-SJ 10),and left SJ 10 groups.Safranine-O and fast green staining were used to assess the modeling.The morphological and functional changes in mast cells(MCs)were assessed during acupoint sensitization using toluidine blue and immunofluorescence staining.The levels of serotonin,histamine,substance P(SP),and tryptase at skin acupoints and serum levels of IL-β,IL-6,and TNF-αwere detected using ELISA.Results:After 14 days of treatment,the number of MCs and their degranulation rates were statistically higher in the model group than in the control group(both P<0.001).After applying acupuncture,the levels of 5-HT,HA,and SP at skin acupoints were lower than those in the model group(all P<0.05),and tryptase level was higher(both P<0.05).Tryptase level was higher on the skin at the MAL-SJ 10 acupoint than that on the MAR-SJ 10 acupoint(P=0.004).Compared with the model group,the serum levels of IL-1β,IL-6,and TNF-αin the MAR-SJ 10 and MAL-SJ 10 groups were lower(all P<0.05).Conclusion:Acupuncture at KOA-sensitized acupoints mitigates joint injury in KOA rats and may bidi-rectionally regulate local MCs of these acupoints.This finding not only enhances the reference value of sensitizing points in clinical diagnosis and treatment,but also contributes to the understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying acupuncture intervention at sensitizing points.展开更多
Objective:Pain is a health problem frequently reported in the clinical and general populations.Acupoint therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat pain;however,its mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,this stud...Objective:Pain is a health problem frequently reported in the clinical and general populations.Acupoint therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat pain;however,its mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,this study aimed to explore the relationship between distal acupoints,dorsal root ganglion(DRG)neurons,and spinal cord dorsal horn(SDH) neurons in neck acute inflammatory pain(NAIP).Methods:NAIP model rats were used to explore the relationship between acupoint sensitization and pain.Out of fourteen rats,ten rats were grouped into control and NAIP groups,five rats in control and five rats in NAIP.Mustard oil was subcutaneously injected on one side between the C4 and C7 vertebrae of the neck to establish an NAIP model.Evans blue(EB) was injected through the tail vein to detect sensitized acupoints after NAIP modeling.EB exudation in the body,Liè qūe(列缺 LU7),and Língdào(灵道 HT4) were evaluated.An immunofluorescence assay was conducted to detect the expression of calcitonin generelated peptide(CGRP),isolectin B4(IB4),and c-Fos in the dorsal root ganglion(DRG)and spinal cord dorsal medullae spinalis(CDMS).Four rats were used for the retrograde labeling of neurons of the LU7 region to the DRG and CDMS using CTB-488 and CTB-555 microinjection.Results:NAIP was shown to lead to oozing and pain sensitization in the LU7 and HT4 and increased the proportion of c-Fos+/CGRP+and c-Fos+/IB4+cells in both the DRG and CDMS.CTB-488 and CTB-555injected into the LU7 and sensitization point areas were observed in the DRG and CDMS regions of NAIP rats.Conclusions:Our study revealed that NAIP could lead to oozing and pain sensitization in the LU7 and HT4regions and that the pain point around LU7 might result from the transfer of peptidergic(CGRP-positive)and non-peptidergic(IB4-positive) neurons in the DRG and CDMS.展开更多
Objective:To investigate whether electroacupuncture(EA) at sensitized acupoints could reduce sympathetic-sensory coupling(SSC) and neurogenic inflammatory response by interfering with 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)ergic ne...Objective:To investigate whether electroacupuncture(EA) at sensitized acupoints could reduce sympathetic-sensory coupling(SSC) and neurogenic inflammatory response by interfering with 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)ergic neural pathways to relieve colitis and somatic referred pain,and explore the underlying mechanisms.Methods:Rats were treated with 5% dextran sodium sulfate(DSS) solution for 7 days to establish a colitis model.Twelve rats were randomly divided into the control and model groups according to a random number table(n=6).According to the Research on Rat Acupoint Atlas",sensitized acupoints and non-sensitized acupoints were determined.Rats were randomly divided into the control,model,Zusanli-EA(ST 36),Dachangshu-EA(BL 25),and Xinshu(BL 15) groups(n=6),as well as the control,model,EA,and EA+GR113808(a 5-HT inhibitor)groups(n=6).The rats in the control group received no treatment.Acupuncture was administered on 2 days after modeling using the stimulation pavameters:1 mA,2 Hz,for 30 min,with sparse and dense waves,for 14 consecutive days.GR113808 was injected into the tail vein at 5 mg/kg before EA for 10 min for 7 consecutive days.Mechanical sensitivity was assessed with von Frey filaments.Body weight and disease activity index(DAI) scores of rats were determined.Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to observe colon histopathology.SSC was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining.Immunohistochemical staining was performed to detect 5-HT and substance P(SP) expressions.The calcitonin gene-related peptide(CGRP) in skin tissue and tyrosine hydroxylase(TH) protein levels in DRG were detected by Western blot.The levels of hyaluronic acid(HA),bradykinin(BK),prostaglandin I2(PGI2) in skin tissue,5-HT,tryptophan hydroxylase 1(TPH1),serotonin transporters(SERT),5-HT 3 receptor(5-HT3R),and 5-HT 4 receptor(5-HT4R) in colon tissue were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Results:BL 25 and ST 36 acupoints were determined as sensitized acupoints,and BL 15 acupoint was used as a non-sensitized acupoint.EA at sensitized acupoints improved the DAI score,increased mechanical withdrawal thresholds,and alleviated colonic pathological damage of rats.EA at sensitized acupoints reduced SSC structures and decreased TH and CGRP expression levels(P<0.05).Furthermore,EA at sensitized acupoints reduced BK,PGI2,5-HT,5-HT3R and TPH1 levels,and increased HA,5-HT4R and SERT levels in colitis rats(P<0.05).GR113808 treatment diminished the protective effect of EA at sensitized acupoints in colitis rats(P<0.05).Conclusion:EA at sensitized acupoints alleviated DSS-induced somatic referred pain in colitis rats by interfering with 5-HTergic neural pathway,and reducing SSC inflammatory response.展开更多
Objective:To observe the pressure pain threshold(PPT),skin conductance(SC)and blood perfusion(BP)of the sensitized acupoints in patients with knee osteoarthritis(KOA),and explore the mechanism of acupuncture at the se...Objective:To observe the pressure pain threshold(PPT),skin conductance(SC)and blood perfusion(BP)of the sensitized acupoints in patients with knee osteoarthritis(KOA),and explore the mechanism of acupuncture at the sensitized acupoints for treating diseases.Methods:Eleven healthy subjects and 11 unilateral KOA patients were recruited from July 2020 to March 2021 in this study.The PPT,SC and BP of control acupoints in healthy controls,and non-sensitized and sensitized acupoints in KOA patients were measured and compared between baseline and after manual acupuncture(MA)treatment.Results:Before MA treatment,lower PPT was observed at the sensitized acupoints comparedwith non-sensitized andcontrol acupoints(P0.05).Compared with the control and non-sensitized acupoints,there were significant increases of SC and BP in sensitized acupoints of KOA patients after MA treatment(P<0.05 or P<0.01).Conclusion:MA at sensitized acupoints could elevate PPT of KOA patients,which may be associated with the increment of SC and BP.展开更多
基金the Open Project of National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion:a Study on The Evidence-Based Evaluation of the Acupuncture Therapy of Promoting Blood Circulation and Dispelling Wind in the Treatment of Primary Hypertension(No.NCRCOP2023004)the Young Faculty and HighLevel Project Incubation Program of Beijing Union University:a Study on the Mechanism of Pingchong Jiangni Acupuncture in Regulating the Adenosine 5‘-monophosphate-activated Protein Kinase/Perilipin 2 Lipophagy Signaling Pathway in the Paraventricular Nucleus of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats(No.ZK30202508)。
摘要OBJECTIVE:To observe the characteristics of acupoint sensitization in patients with essential hypertension,analyze the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of each acupoint,and summarize the clinical characteristics of high-sensitivity acupoints.METHODS:This study employed a cross-sectional matched case-control design and enrolled a total of 448 volunteer participants,including 224 patients with hypertension and 224 healthy controls.The main outcome measures included measuring the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of 16 highly sensitive acupoints in both hypertensive subjects and healthy controls.The receiver operating characteristic curve method was used to evaluate the sensitivity of each acupoint.Additionally,the rules of mechanical pain threshold,tenderness threshold sensitization rate,and degree of sensitization of each acupoint in hypertension patients were summarized to identify the optimal highly sensitive acupoints related to hypertension.RESUITS:The mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of hypertensive patients were significantly lower than those of healthy subjects,the difference was statistically significant(P<0.001),indicating that the mechanical pain threshold and tenderness threshold of hypertensive patients at various points had a downward trend.Acupoints with high incidence of sensitization in hypertensive patients include Quchi(LI11),Taichong(LR3),Fenglong(ST40),Xingjian(LR2),Taixi(KI3)and Renying(ST9).CONCLUSION:This study successfully achieved the objective of exploring acupoint sensitization in patients with primary hypertension.Hypertensive patients exhibited significantly lower mechanical pain thresholds and pressure pain thresholds compared to healthy subjects.These findings provide clinical evidence for acupoint selection in acupuncture treatment for primary hypertension.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(General Program):82174513Independent Topic Selection Project of Basic Research Operating Expenses,Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences:ZZCZ2025-025Innovative Talent Special Project of Independent Topic Selection,Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences:ZZ-JQ.2023003。
摘要Ulcerative colitis(UC)is a recurrent chronic inflammatory bowel disease and its clinical assessment relies mainly on invasive examinations with a delayed response.The acupoint sensitization theory proposes that visceral pathological states can dynamically manifest at specific body surface sites through segmental neural connections,presenting as functional or morphological changes in acupoints.This article outlines the pathological progression of UC,and then systematically reviews the clinical manifestations and neurobiological mechanisms of acupoint sensitization,covering multiple layers including viscero-somatic afferent convergence and spinal segmental sensitization,cutaneous neurogenic inflammation and peripheral sensitization amplification,sympathetic-sensory coupling and bidirectional somato-visceral modulation.On this basis,combined with limited existing clinical outcomes of acupoint sensitization in UC patients,the potential application value of this theory in UC disease assessment and acupuncture intervention is tentatively discussed.Finally,this paper points out the shortcomings of current research on acupoint sensitization in UC and proposes that future studies should focus on sensitization characterization of UC at different stages and lesion locations,as well as their correlations with disease activity.It also suggests that the development of multimodal and quantitative detection devices will advance the translational application of the acupoint sensitization theory in precise acupuncture treatment for UC.
基金Supported by Special Funds of Fujian Provincial Finance Department and Education Department:x2018002Clinical Special Project of School Management of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine:xb2020150。
摘要Objectives:To investigate the clinical and therapeutic effects of acupuncture at the pain-sensitive points of patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain and optimize the acupuncture treatment for chronic nonspecific low back pain.Methods:Using the FDK 20 pressure algometer,the pain-sensitive points were probed in 30 patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.The top 5 points that elicited the most painful reaction were selected and stimulated with an even-needling technique after deqi.The needles were retained for 30 min.TDP irradiation was concurrently administered.The treatment was administered once daily on weekdays(Monday to Friday) and discontinued for 2 days during the weekend(Saturday and Sunday).The treatment lasted for 2 consecutive weeks.The changes in the range of motion(ROM) of the lumbar vertebrae,visual analogous scale(VAS) score,and the Oswestry disability index(ODI) score of the lumbar vertebrae were assessed before treatment and after 5 and 10 treatment sessions.Results:Compared with the data before treatment,the spinal ROM increased after 5 and 10 treatment sessions in the patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.The ROM after 10 treatment sessions was remarkably wider than that after 5 treatments,with statistical significance(all P<0.05).Compared with that before treatment,the immediate VAS score showed statistically significant reduction after 5 treatment sessions(P<0.05).Moreover,compared with the score after 5 treatment sessions,the immediate VAS score reduced after 10 treatment sessions,but without any statistical significance.After 5 and 10 treatment sessions,the ODI score was reduced in the patients and it was significantly different from that before treatment(both P<0.05).Conclusion:Acupuncture at the pain-sensitive points alleviates pain and improves lumbar vertebral function in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.Thus,further research is needed to confirm whether acupuncture can be a better intervention for chronic nonspecific low back pain.
基金Supported by Key Research and Development Program of the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China:Study on Multi-dimensional Evaluation of Acupoint Sensitization Characteristics and Mechanisms:2022YFC3500601Scientific Research Fund of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine:Development of an Active Health Auricular Acupoint Anti-inflammatory Therapeutic Instrument and Research on Its Anti-inflammatory Effects:GZY-KJS-2025-014Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province:Study on Electroacupuncture at Gongsun(SP4)and Neiguan(PC6)Alleviating Ulcerative Colitis by Activating the Cholinergic Anti-inflammatory Pathway to Regulate NLRP3 Inflammasome:H2024423064。
摘要Objective To investigate the distribution characteristics of somatic hyperalgesic acupoints in patients with functional dyspepsia(FD),at the same time,the receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve was used with healthy subjects to evaluate the distribution characteristics of hyperalgesic acupoints,and summarize the objective rule of acupoint hyperalgesia in patients with FD,aiming to provide objective evidence for the acupoint sensitization theory and the scientific basis for optimizing acupoint selection strategies of acupuncture for FD.Methods A case-control study design was adopted with 40 patients with FD(FD group)and 38 healthy subjects(control group).The pressure pain threshold(PPT)and pain tolerance threshold(PTT)of acupoints on the abdomen,lumbar region,and lower limbs were measured by a pressure pain tester in both groups.The differences between the two groups were analyzed by statistical analysis,and the diagnostic efficacy of the sensitized acupoints was evaluated by ROC curve.Results(1)The PPT in the FD group was lower than that in the control group at Tianshu(ST25)(Right:10.8 v.s.12.6,P=0.049)and Sanyinjiao(SP6)(Right:16.3 v.s.19.1,P=0.023),respectively.(2)Compared with the control group,the PTT in the FD group was lower at Zhongwan(CV12)(22.8 v.s.28.6,P=0.002),Tianshu(ST25)(Left:22.0 v.s.28.2,P=0.001.Right:22.6 v.s.27.3,P=0.016),Zusanli(ST36)(Left:21.3 v.s.26.6,P=0.007.Right:51.8 v.s.57.6,P=0.030),Shangjuxu(ST37)(Left:46.0 v.s.52.7,P=0.034.Right:46.6 v.s.58.4,P=0.009),Xiajuxu(ST39)(Left:44.9 v.s.54.1,P=0.021.Right:44.8 v.s.55.6,P=0.006),Yinlingquan(SP9)(Left:31.6 v.s.44.1,P=0.001.Right:33.5 v.s.42.8,P=0.003),Sanyinjiao(SP6)(Left:33.8 v.s.43.7,P=0.015.Right:33.6 v.s.41.5,P=0.013),and Xiaochangshu(BL27)(Left:41.9 v.s.52.8,P=0.007.Right:46.5 v.s.55.2,P=0.038)separately.(3)The diagnostic efficacy of left Yinlingquan(SP9)was the best(AUC=0.72,95%CI:0.61 to 0.83,P<0.001),and the optimal cutoff value was<44.Zhongwan(CV12)(AUC=0.68)on the abdomen and left Tianshu(ST25)(AUC=0.69)and right Xiajuxu(ST39)(AUC=0.67)on the lower limbs,and the left Xiaochangshu(BL27)(AUC=0.68)on the back all demonstrated the moderate diagnostic efficacy(AUC:0.67 to 0.69).Furthermore,except for the PPT at the right Tianshu(ST25)(P=0.17)and the PTT at the right Xiaochangshu(BL27)(P=0.05),the results of ROC analysis for all the other acupoints showed statistical significance(P<0.05),suggesting that the sensitization of these acupoints may be valuable potentially for the diagnosis of FD.Conclusion Patients with FD exhibit an objectively quantifiable hyperalgesic phenomenon,primarily characterized by a reduced PTT.The distribution of sensitized acupoints follows“horizontal distribution of acupoints”and“longitudinal division of meridians”,which may provide a scientific basis for acupoint selection in acupuncture for FD.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China:on Acupoints on the Same Spinal Segment Different Meridians Reflecting Primary Dysmenorrhea Based on the Theory of One Source and Three Branches(No.81973755)Research on Variations of Biophysical Properties of Acupoints on Different Meridians with the Same Spinal Segments Based on Primary Dysmenorrhea(No.81573884)+2 种基金Based on the Study of Biophysical Characteristics of the Cytoplasm under Different Physiological States(No.81603542)Ministry of Science and Technology of China:International Cooperation on the Dominant Diseases of Acupuncture and Moxibustion based on the Guiding Principle of Acupoint Compatibility Classification(2019YFC171203)Graduate Innovation Funding Project of Hebei Province:Study on the Mechanism of Acupoint Specific Reaction in Different Pathological States of Uterus(No.XCXZZBS2021013)。
摘要OBJECTIVE:To explore the sensitization acupoints of women with primary dysmenorrhea(PD)by comparing infrared radiation temperatures between acupoints and non-acupoints.METHODS:We tested 10 acupoints of every woman with PD and healthy subjects on premenstrual,menstrual,and postmenstrual days using an infrared imaging device.The primary outcome was the absolute value of body surface temperature difference(AVTD)between the left and right sides of the same testing point.RESULTS:A total of 58 PD patients and 57 healthy volunteers completed the test from May 2016 to May 2017.Compared with the healthy group,we observed a significant reduction and increase in the AVTD in Taichong(LR3)and Sanyinjiao(SP6),respectively,during menstrual days in the PD group(P=0.01;P=0.04);while during postmenstrual days,all AVTDs of Shuiquan(KI5),Diji(SP8),and Xuehai(SP10)were diminished in the PD group(P=0.01;P=0.03;P=0.01,respectively).No significant differences in AVTD were detected at any other points or testing times.CONCLUSIONS:Compared with the healthy group,the AVTDs of Taichong(LR3),Sanyinjiao(SP6),Shuiquan(KI5),Diji(SP8),and Xuehai(SP10)at menstruationrelevant points of PD patients were sensitized,providing a reference for the selection of acupoints in the treatment of PD.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81590951,81973962,82004486)the National Key Research and Development Project(No.2019YFC1709701)+1 种基金the Key Research and Development Project of Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province(Nos.2020YFS0304,2021YFS0087)Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine.(No.ZYYCXTD-D-202003).
摘要Acupoints and trigger points in traditional Chinese medicine represent two different minimally invasive therapy systems-based,respectively,on traditional acupuncture and dry needles.Many studies argue that trigger points and traditional acupoints are conceptually similar because they generally have identical locations on the human body.However,whether trigger points contribute to the formation of the traditional acupuncture technique is controversial.Although many relevant studies have been conducted,this controversy continues to hinder the development of both disciplines.Recently,researchers of Chinese acupuncture have proposed the“acupoint sensitization”theory,which postulates that traditional acupoints may be sensitized by diseases,environments,and therapies.This turns them into a“sensitized state.”Recent studies suggest that trigger points and sensitized acupoints share similar biological properties.To clarify the above-mentioned confusion,we reviewed relevant studies on these two concepts and attempted to analyze their relationship.In this paper,we provide a general summary of acupoint sensitization theory and sensitized acupoints.We then compare trigger points with sensitized acupoints by categorizing their similarities and differences,including location and range,pathological morphology,pain perception,surface temperature effects,and bioelectrical properties.We believe that,because trigger points and sensitized acupoints have many shared properties,they might constitute“the same book with different covers.”
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81590952)the“Jiebang Guashuai”Project of the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine(2022-JYB-JBZR-024).
摘要Objective:To elucidate the differences in manual acupuncture effectiveness at sensitized points by investigating the mechanisms of local skin action at different sensitization points in rats with knee osteoarthritis(KOA).Methods:Forty SpragueeDawley rats were equally divided into control,model(1 mg of mono-iodoacetate into the right knee joint cavity),sham operation,manual acupuncture at right Tianjing acupoint(MAR-SJ 10),and left SJ 10 groups.Safranine-O and fast green staining were used to assess the modeling.The morphological and functional changes in mast cells(MCs)were assessed during acupoint sensitization using toluidine blue and immunofluorescence staining.The levels of serotonin,histamine,substance P(SP),and tryptase at skin acupoints and serum levels of IL-β,IL-6,and TNF-αwere detected using ELISA.Results:After 14 days of treatment,the number of MCs and their degranulation rates were statistically higher in the model group than in the control group(both P<0.001).After applying acupuncture,the levels of 5-HT,HA,and SP at skin acupoints were lower than those in the model group(all P<0.05),and tryptase level was higher(both P<0.05).Tryptase level was higher on the skin at the MAL-SJ 10 acupoint than that on the MAR-SJ 10 acupoint(P=0.004).Compared with the model group,the serum levels of IL-1β,IL-6,and TNF-αin the MAR-SJ 10 and MAL-SJ 10 groups were lower(all P<0.05).Conclusion:Acupuncture at KOA-sensitized acupoints mitigates joint injury in KOA rats and may bidi-rectionally regulate local MCs of these acupoints.This finding not only enhances the reference value of sensitizing points in clinical diagnosis and treatment,but also contributes to the understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying acupuncture intervention at sensitizing points.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China:2018YFC1704606。
摘要Objective:Pain is a health problem frequently reported in the clinical and general populations.Acupoint therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat pain;however,its mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,this study aimed to explore the relationship between distal acupoints,dorsal root ganglion(DRG)neurons,and spinal cord dorsal horn(SDH) neurons in neck acute inflammatory pain(NAIP).Methods:NAIP model rats were used to explore the relationship between acupoint sensitization and pain.Out of fourteen rats,ten rats were grouped into control and NAIP groups,five rats in control and five rats in NAIP.Mustard oil was subcutaneously injected on one side between the C4 and C7 vertebrae of the neck to establish an NAIP model.Evans blue(EB) was injected through the tail vein to detect sensitized acupoints after NAIP modeling.EB exudation in the body,Liè qūe(列缺 LU7),and Língdào(灵道 HT4) were evaluated.An immunofluorescence assay was conducted to detect the expression of calcitonin generelated peptide(CGRP),isolectin B4(IB4),and c-Fos in the dorsal root ganglion(DRG)and spinal cord dorsal medullae spinalis(CDMS).Four rats were used for the retrograde labeling of neurons of the LU7 region to the DRG and CDMS using CTB-488 and CTB-555 microinjection.Results:NAIP was shown to lead to oozing and pain sensitization in the LU7 and HT4 and increased the proportion of c-Fos+/CGRP+and c-Fos+/IB4+cells in both the DRG and CDMS.CTB-488 and CTB-555injected into the LU7 and sensitization point areas were observed in the DRG and CDMS regions of NAIP rats.Conclusions:Our study revealed that NAIP could lead to oozing and pain sensitization in the LU7 and HT4regions and that the pain point around LU7 might result from the transfer of peptidergic(CGRP-positive)and non-peptidergic(IB4-positive) neurons in the DRG and CDMS.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82004461)Medical Research Project of Sichuan Province(No.S21099)+1 种基金the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College(No.CYFY2021ZD05,No.CYFY-GQ27)Chengdu Medical College(No.CYZZD20-03,No.202013705082)。
摘要Objective:To investigate whether electroacupuncture(EA) at sensitized acupoints could reduce sympathetic-sensory coupling(SSC) and neurogenic inflammatory response by interfering with 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)ergic neural pathways to relieve colitis and somatic referred pain,and explore the underlying mechanisms.Methods:Rats were treated with 5% dextran sodium sulfate(DSS) solution for 7 days to establish a colitis model.Twelve rats were randomly divided into the control and model groups according to a random number table(n=6).According to the Research on Rat Acupoint Atlas",sensitized acupoints and non-sensitized acupoints were determined.Rats were randomly divided into the control,model,Zusanli-EA(ST 36),Dachangshu-EA(BL 25),and Xinshu(BL 15) groups(n=6),as well as the control,model,EA,and EA+GR113808(a 5-HT inhibitor)groups(n=6).The rats in the control group received no treatment.Acupuncture was administered on 2 days after modeling using the stimulation pavameters:1 mA,2 Hz,for 30 min,with sparse and dense waves,for 14 consecutive days.GR113808 was injected into the tail vein at 5 mg/kg before EA for 10 min for 7 consecutive days.Mechanical sensitivity was assessed with von Frey filaments.Body weight and disease activity index(DAI) scores of rats were determined.Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to observe colon histopathology.SSC was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining.Immunohistochemical staining was performed to detect 5-HT and substance P(SP) expressions.The calcitonin gene-related peptide(CGRP) in skin tissue and tyrosine hydroxylase(TH) protein levels in DRG were detected by Western blot.The levels of hyaluronic acid(HA),bradykinin(BK),prostaglandin I2(PGI2) in skin tissue,5-HT,tryptophan hydroxylase 1(TPH1),serotonin transporters(SERT),5-HT 3 receptor(5-HT3R),and 5-HT 4 receptor(5-HT4R) in colon tissue were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Results:BL 25 and ST 36 acupoints were determined as sensitized acupoints,and BL 15 acupoint was used as a non-sensitized acupoint.EA at sensitized acupoints improved the DAI score,increased mechanical withdrawal thresholds,and alleviated colonic pathological damage of rats.EA at sensitized acupoints reduced SSC structures and decreased TH and CGRP expression levels(P<0.05).Furthermore,EA at sensitized acupoints reduced BK,PGI2,5-HT,5-HT3R and TPH1 levels,and increased HA,5-HT4R and SERT levels in colitis rats(P<0.05).GR113808 treatment diminished the protective effect of EA at sensitized acupoints in colitis rats(P<0.05).Conclusion:EA at sensitized acupoints alleviated DSS-induced somatic referred pain in colitis rats by interfering with 5-HTergic neural pathway,and reducing SSC inflammatory response.
基金Supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2019YFC1709002)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81674083,61801012)CACMS Innovation Fund(No.CI2021A03501)。
摘要Objective:To observe the pressure pain threshold(PPT),skin conductance(SC)and blood perfusion(BP)of the sensitized acupoints in patients with knee osteoarthritis(KOA),and explore the mechanism of acupuncture at the sensitized acupoints for treating diseases.Methods:Eleven healthy subjects and 11 unilateral KOA patients were recruited from July 2020 to March 2021 in this study.The PPT,SC and BP of control acupoints in healthy controls,and non-sensitized and sensitized acupoints in KOA patients were measured and compared between baseline and after manual acupuncture(MA)treatment.Results:Before MA treatment,lower PPT was observed at the sensitized acupoints comparedwith non-sensitized andcontrol acupoints(P0.05).Compared with the control and non-sensitized acupoints,there were significant increases of SC and BP in sensitized acupoints of KOA patients after MA treatment(P<0.05 or P<0.01).Conclusion:MA at sensitized acupoints could elevate PPT of KOA patients,which may be associated with the increment of SC and BP.