Acupoint application for postherpetic neuralgia with qi stagnation and blood stasis and its effect on related inflammatory factors and 5-HT. / ç©´ä½è´´æ•·æ²»ç–—æ°”æ»žè¡€ç˜€åž‹å¸¦çŠ¶ç–±ç–¹åŽé—ç¥žç»ç—›åŠå¯¹ç›¸å ³ç‚Žæ€§å› å­ã€5-HT的影响.

OBJECTIVES: To observe the clinical efficacy of acupoint application in treating postherpetic neuralgia(PHN) with qi stagnation and blood stasis, and its effects on serum inflammatory factors and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in patients. METHODS: A total of 136 PHN patients were randomly divided into an observation group (68 cases, 6 case dropped out) and a control group (68 cases, 5 cases dropped out). In the observation group, the combination of swelling-reducing and pain-relieving patches and acupoint application with herbal powder was used at bilateral Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Shenque (CV 8) and ashi points. Sanyinjiao (SP 6) was applied for 30 min per session, once every 7 days; and Shenque (CV 8) and ashi points were applied for 6-8 h per session, once every 1 day. In the control group, mecobalamin injection was administered at Jiaji (EX-B 2) corresponding to the neural segments governing the painful area, 1 mL per injection, once a day. Each treatment course consisted of 7 days, 4 treatment courses were required in both groups. The visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) score, traditional Chinese medicine syndrome score, and the serum levels of inflammatory factors (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], interleukin-6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) and 5-HT were compared in the patients of the two groups before and after treatment, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated. RESULTS: After treatment, the VAS scores, traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scores, serum MCP-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and 5-HT levels were decreased compared with those before treatment in both groups (P<0.05), and the results in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). The SF-36 scores were increased compared with those before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), and the result in the observation group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). The total effective rate of the observation group was 74.2% (46/62), which was higher than 52.4% (33/63, P<0.05) of the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of swelling-reducing and pain-relieving patches and acupoint application with herbal powder has shown better efficacy in treating PHN with qi stagnation and blood stasis, which can significantly alleviate patients symptoms, improve their quality of life, and reduce serum levels of MCP-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and 5-HT.

[Bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking for menstrual migraine of qi stagnation and blood stasis and its effect on serum levels of E2 and 5-HT].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical effect of bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking on menstrual migraine (MM) of qi stagnation and blood stasis, and explore its possible mechanism. METHODS: A total of 102 cases of MM with qi stagnation and blood stasis were randomly divided into an observation group (51 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a control group (51 cases, 2 cases dropped off). The patients in the observation group were treated with bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking. The bloodletting was performed at vein at upper 1/3 of the dorsalis near the ear helix; the auricular point sticking was performed at Pizhixia (AT4), Neifenmi (CO18), Jiaogan (AH6a), Nie (AT2), Zhen (AT3), Shenmen (TF4) and Yidan (CO11). The auricular points of both ears were alternate used. From 7 days before the onset of menstruation, bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein was given once every 7 days, 3 times were taken as a course of treatment, and 1 course of treatment was given; the auricular point sticking was given once every 3 days, and 6 times of treatment were given. The patients in the control group were treated with oral administration of flunarizine hydrochloride capsules. From 7 days before the onset of menstruation, flunarizine hydrochloride was given 2 capsules per time, once a day for 3 weeks. The menstrual headache index and visual analogue scale (VAS) score of the two groups were observed before treatment, one menstrual cycle into treatment and the first and the second menstrual cycle after treatment; the migraine-specific quality of life questionnaire (MSQ) score and the serum levels of estradiol (E2) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were compared before treatment and one menstrual cycle into treatment; the clinical efficacy was evaluated at one menstrual cycle into treatment. RESULTS: Compared before treatment, the menstrual headache index and VAS scores were reduced at one menstrual cycle into treatment and the first and second menstrual cycle after treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), and those in the observation group were lower than the control group (P<0.05). Compared before treatment, the MSQ scores and the serum levels of E2 and 5-HT in the two groups were increased at one menstrual cycle into treatment (P<0.05), and those in the observation group were higher than the control group (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 95.8% (46/48) in the observation group, which was higher than 73.5% (36/49) in the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking could relieve headache intensity, improve the quality of life in patients with MM of qi stagnation and blood stasis, which may be achieved by raising the serum levels of E2 and 5-HT to improve the level of hormone in the body.

[Effects of umbilical moxibustion on phobic behavior and monoamine neurotransmitters in stress-model rats].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of umbilical moxibustion therapy on phobic behavior and the contents of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in different brain regions of the stress-model rats and explore the potential mechanism of umbilical moxibustion on phobic behavior. METHODS: Among 50 Wistar male rats, 45 rates were selected and randomly divided into a control group, a model group and an umbilical moxibustion group, 15 rats in each one; and the rest 5 rats were used for preparing the model of electric shock. The bystander electroshock method was adopted to prepare phobic stress model in the model group and the umbilical moxibustion group. After modeling, the intervention with umbilical moxibustion started in the umbilical moxibustion group, in which, the ginger-isolated moxibustion was applied at "Shenque" (CV 8), once daily, 2 cones for 20 min each time, for consecutively 21 days. After modeling and intervention completed, the rats in each group were subjected to the open field test to evaluate the state of fear. After intervention, the Morris water maze test and fear conditioning test were performed to evaluate the changes in learning and memory ability and the state of fear. Using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the contents of NE, DA and 5-HT in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus were determined. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the horizontal and vertical activity scores were lower (P<0.01), the number of stool particles was increased (P<0.01), the escape latency was prolonged (P<0.01), the times of target quadrant were reduced (P<0.01), and the freezing time was prolonged (P<0.05) in the rats of the model group. The horizontal and vertical activity scores were increased (P<0.05), the number of stool particles was reduced (P<0.05), the escape latency was shortened (P<0.05, P<0.01), the times of target quadrant were increased (P<0.05), and the freezing time was shortened (P<0.05) in the rats of the umbilical moxibustion group when compared with the model group. The trend search strategy was adopted in the control group and the umbilical moxibustion group, while the random search strategy was used in rats of the model group. Compared with the control group, the contents of NE, DA and 5-HT in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus were reduced (P<0.01) in the model group. In the umbilical moxibustion group, the contents of NE, DA and 5-HT in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus were increased (P<0.05, P<0.01) when compared with the model group. CONCLUSION: Umbilical moxibustion can effectively relieve the state of fear and learning and memory impairment of phobic stress model rats, which may be related to the up-regulation of contents of brain neurotransmitters, i.e. NE, DA, and 5-HT.

Clinical Effect of Tiaoxin Formula in Treatment of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease and Anxiety/Depression and Its Impact on Serum 5-HT， β-TG and MPO Levels / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the clinical effect of Tiaoxin formula in the treatment of patients with coronary heart disease and anxiety/depression and its impact on serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT）， β- thromboglobulin （β-TG） and myeloperoxidase （MPO）. MethodA total of 66 patients with coronary heart disease and anxiety/depression were randomly divided into the Tiaoxin formula group and Deanxit group， 33 cases in each group. Both groups were given fundamental western treatment for coronary heart disease. Additionally， the Deanxit group was treated with flupentixol and melitracen tablets and the Tiaoxin formula group was treated with Tiaoxin Formula. The treatment lasted 8 weeks. Before and after treatment， the changes of clinical efficacy， Patient Health Questionnaire （PHQ-9）， Generalized Anxiety Disorder （GAD-7） scale， Seattle Angina Questionnaire （SAQ）， heart rate variability， and serum 5-HT， β-TG and MPO levels， and incidence of adverse reactions in the two groups were observed. ResultThere was no significant difference in the baseline indexes of patients in the two groups， and thus the two groups were comparable. After treatment for 8 weeks， the total effective rate for traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndromes in the Tiaoxin Formula group was 87.88% （29/33） higher than 63.64% （21/33） in the Deanxit group （Z=-2.653， P<0.05）. Compared with those before treatment， the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores of the two groups were decreased at week 4 and 8 of treatment （P<0.05）， and there was no statistical difference between two groups. And the SAQ dimension scores of the two groups were increased at week 4 and 8 of treatment （P<0.05）. Compared with the Deanxit group， the Tiaoxin Formula group had elevation in two dimension scores： Physical limitation and angina stability （P<0.05）. Compared with the conditions before treatment， the serum 5-HT level in the two groups were increased， while the β-TG and MPO levels were lowered （P<0.05）， and there was no distinct difference between two groups. In addition， the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals （SDNN） and standard deviation of average normal-to-normal intervals （SDANN） of the heart rate variability in the Tiaoxin formula group were elevated after treatment （P<0.05）， which were more significant than those of the Deanxit group （P<0.05）. During the treatment period， the incidence of adverse drug reactions in the Tiaoxin formula group was lower than that in the Deanxit group （P<0.05）， and no adverse events were observed in the two groups. ConclusionTiaoxin formula was effective for the treatment of patients with coronary heart disease accompanied by anxiety and depression， which improved the clinical symptoms， increased serum 5-HT levels， and decreased serum β-TG and MPO levels， and had few adverse reactions and high safety for patients， showing a high clinical value.

Effects of umbilical moxibustion on phobic behavior and monoamine neurotransmitters in stress-model rats / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effects of umbilical moxibustion therapy on phobic behavior and the contents of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in different brain regions of the stress-model rats and explore the potential mechanism of umbilical moxibustion on phobic behavior.@*METHODS@#Among 50 Wistar male rats, 45 rates were selected and randomly divided into a control group, a model group and an umbilical moxibustion group, 15 rats in each one; and the rest 5 rats were used for preparing the model of electric shock. The bystander electroshock method was adopted to prepare phobic stress model in the model group and the umbilical moxibustion group. After modeling, the intervention with umbilical moxibustion started in the umbilical moxibustion group, in which, the ginger-isolated moxibustion was applied at "Shenque" (CV 8), once daily, 2 cones for 20 min each time, for consecutively 21 days. After modeling and intervention completed, the rats in each group were subjected to the open field test to evaluate the state of fear. After intervention, the Morris water maze test and fear conditioning test were performed to evaluate the changes in learning and memory ability and the state of fear. Using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the contents of NE, DA and 5-HT in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus were determined.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the control group, the horizontal and vertical activity scores were lower (P<0.01), the number of stool particles was increased (P<0.01), the escape latency was prolonged (P<0.01), the times of target quadrant were reduced (P<0.01), and the freezing time was prolonged (P<0.05) in the rats of the model group. The horizontal and vertical activity scores were increased (P<0.05), the number of stool particles was reduced (P<0.05), the escape latency was shortened (P<0.05, P<0.01), the times of target quadrant were increased (P<0.05), and the freezing time was shortened (P<0.05) in the rats of the umbilical moxibustion group when compared with the model group. The trend search strategy was adopted in the control group and the umbilical moxibustion group, while the random search strategy was used in rats of the model group. Compared with the control group, the contents of NE, DA and 5-HT in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus were reduced (P<0.01) in the model group. In the umbilical moxibustion group, the contents of NE, DA and 5-HT in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus were increased (P<0.05, P<0.01) when compared with the model group.@*CONCLUSION@#Umbilical moxibustion can effectively relieve the state of fear and learning and memory impairment of phobic stress model rats, which may be related to the up-regulation of contents of brain neurotransmitters, i.e. NE, DA, and 5-HT.

Bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking for menstrual migraine of qi stagnation and blood stasis and its effect on serum levels of E2 and 5-HT / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical effect of bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking on menstrual migraine (MM) of qi stagnation and blood stasis, and explore its possible mechanism.@*METHODS@#A total of 102 cases of MM with qi stagnation and blood stasis were randomly divided into an observation group (51 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a control group (51 cases, 2 cases dropped off). The patients in the observation group were treated with bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking. The bloodletting was performed at vein at upper 1/3 of the dorsalis near the ear helix; the auricular point sticking was performed at Pizhixia (AT4), Neifenmi (CO18), Jiaogan (AH6a), Nie (AT2), Zhen (AT3), Shenmen (TF4) and Yidan (CO11). The auricular points of both ears were alternate used. From 7 days before the onset of menstruation, bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein was given once every 7 days, 3 times were taken as a course of treatment, and 1 course of treatment was given; the auricular point sticking was given once every 3 days, and 6 times of treatment were given. The patients in the control group were treated with oral administration of flunarizine hydrochloride capsules. From 7 days before the onset of menstruation, flunarizine hydrochloride was given 2 capsules per time, once a day for 3 weeks. The menstrual headache index and visual analogue scale (VAS) score of the two groups were observed before treatment, one menstrual cycle into treatment and the first and the second menstrual cycle after treatment; the migraine-specific quality of life questionnaire (MSQ) score and the serum levels of estradiol (E2) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were compared before treatment and one menstrual cycle into treatment; the clinical efficacy was evaluated at one menstrual cycle into treatment.@*RESULTS@#Compared before treatment, the menstrual headache index and VAS scores were reduced at one menstrual cycle into treatment and the first and second menstrual cycle after treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), and those in the observation group were lower than the control group (P<0.05). Compared before treatment, the MSQ scores and the serum levels of E2 and 5-HT in the two groups were increased at one menstrual cycle into treatment (P<0.05), and those in the observation group were higher than the control group (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 95.8% (46/48) in the observation group, which was higher than 73.5% (36/49) in the control group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Bloodletting at auricular dorsal vein combined with auricular point sticking could relieve headache intensity, improve the quality of life in patients with MM of qi stagnation and blood stasis, which may be achieved by raising the serum levels of E2 and 5-HT to improve the level of hormone in the body.

[Acupuncture combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for post-stroke depression: a randomized controlled trial].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the curative effect of Shugan Tiaoshen (soothing liver and regulating mind) acupuncture combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in the treatment of post-stroke depression (PSD), and to explore its mechanism. METHODS: Ninety patients of PSD were randomly divided into an acupuncture+rTMS combination group (30 cases), a rTMS combination group (30 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a western medication group (30 cases, 1 case dropped off). The western medication group was treated with escitalopram oxalate tablets, 10 mg orally each time, once a day; on the basis of the treatment in the western medication group, the rTMS combination group was additionally given rTMS, and the frequency was 20 Hz, 20 min each time, once a day, 5 times a week; on the basis of the treatment in the rTMS combination group, the acupuncture+rTMS combination group was additionally treated with Shugan Tiaoshen acupuncture at Baihui (GV 20), Sishencong (EX-HN 1), Yintang (GV 24+), Shenting (GV 24), etc. for 40 min each time, once a day, weekly 5 times, and each group was treated for 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, the scores of Hamilton depression scale-17 (HAMD-17), Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) were observed, and serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were detected in each group. RESULTS: After treatment, the HAMD-17 scores in the three groups were lower than those before treatment (P<0.01), and the PSQI scores in the acupuncture+rTMS combination group and the rTMS combination group were lower than those before treatment (P<0.01); the above indexes in the acupuncture+rTMS combination group and the rTMS combination group were lower than those in the western medication group (P<0.05), and the PSQI score in the acupuncture+rTMS combination group was lower than that in the rTMS combination group (P<0.05). After treatment, the MoCA scores and serum BDNF levels in the acupuncture+rTMS combination group and the rTMS combination group were higher than those before treatment (P<0.01), and the serum 5-HT levels in the three groups were higher than those before treatment (P<0.01); and the above indexes in the acupuncture+rTMS combination group and the rTMS combination group were higher than those in the western medication group (P<0.05), and which in the acupuncture+rTMS combination group were higher than those in the rTMS combination group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: On the basis of western medication escitalopram oxalate, the addition of Shugan Tiaoshen acupuncture combined with rTMS therapy can effectively improve cognitive function and sleep quality in patients with PSD, and the effect is better than that of western medication alone or rTMS combined with western medication. Its mechanism of action may be related to the increase of peripheral serum 5-HT and BDNF levels.

[Effects of Mijiandao suppository on intestinal laxation in rats and its mechanisms].

Objective: To investigate the effects of Mijian Daotong Bowel Suppository (MJDs) on the compound diphenoxylate induced constipation model of male rats and its mechanisms. Methods: Sixty SD male rats were randomly divided into blank group, model group, positive group and MJDs group. The constipation model was established by using compound diphenoxylate gavage. The rats in blank group and model group were treated with saline by enema, the rats in positive group and MJDs group were given Kaisailu and honey decoction laxative suppository by enema, respectively, once a day for 10 days. The body weight, fecal water content, gastric emptying rate (GER) and carbon ink propulsion rate (CIPR) of rats were observed during modeling and administration. The effects of MJDs on the pathological changes of colon tissue in constipation rats were investigated by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The effect of MJDs on 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the colon of constipation rats was investigated by ELISA kit. The effects of MJDs on the expressions of aquaporins 3 (AQP3) and aquaporins 4 (AQP4) in the colon of constipation rats were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: After 10 days of administration, compared with the blank group, the body weight, fecal water content, carbon ink propulsion rate and colon 5-HT content in the model group were decreased significantly, while the expression levels of AQP3 and AQP4 in the colon were increased significantly (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). Compared with the model group, the fecal water content and colon 5-HT content in the positive group were increased significantly, and the expressions of AQP3 and AQP4 in the colon were decreased significantly. The body weight, fecal water content and colon 5-HT content in the MJDs group were increased significantly, and the expressions of AQP3 and AQP4 was decreased significantly (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). Compared with the positive group, the fecal water content of the MJDs group was decreased significantly, and the expressions of AQP3 and AQP4 in the colon of the MJDs group was decreased significantly (P＜0.05, P＜0.01). Gastric emptying rate was not statistically significant difference between the groups. Conclusion: MJDs has good therapeutic effects on constipation, and its mechanisms may be related to up-regulating the content of 5-HT in the colon and down-regulating the expressions of AQP3 and AQP4 in the colon.

[Effect of ZHU Lian's type â ¡ inhibition acupuncture on chronic migraine and serum 5-HT, VEGF, CGRP].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical efficacy of ZHU Lian's type Ⅱ inhibition acupuncture for chronic migraine, and explore the possible mechanism. METHODS: A total of 120 patients with chronic migraine were randomized into an observation group (60 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a control group (60 cases, 2 cases dropped off). In the control group, flunarizine hydrochloride capsule was taken orally, 5 mg each time, once a day. In the observation group, ZHU Lian's typeⅡ inhibition acupuncture was applied at Erheliao (TE 22), Shousanli (LI 10), Hegu (LI 4), Yangbai (GB 14), Tongziliao (GB 1), Zusanli (ST 36) ect., once every other day. The treatment was given 4 weeks in the two groups. Before and after treatment, the migraine clinical symptom score, cerebral hemodynamics indexes (blood flow velocity of arterior cerebral artery [ACA], posterior cerebral artery [PCA], bilateral middle cerebral artery [MCA] and basilar artery [BA]), serum related indexes (levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT], vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] and calcitonin gene-related peptide [CGRP]) and migraine specific quality of life questionnaire (MSQ) score were observed in the two groups, and the clinical effect was evaluated. RESULTS: The total effective rate in the observation group was 93.0% (53/57), which was higher than 79.3% (46/58) in the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the number of headache attack was reduced, duration time was shortened, and the scores of pain intensity and concomitant symptom, cerebral hemodynamics indexes (blood flow velocity of ACA, PCA, MCA and BA) and serum levels of VEGF and CGRP were lower than before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05, P<0.01), and those in the observation group were lower than the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the serum levels of 5-HT and MSQ scores of functional limitation, dysfunction and emotion were higher than before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), and those in the observation group were higher than the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: ZHU Lian's type Ⅱ inhibition acupuncture could reduce frequency of migraine attack and duration time, improve pain intensity, cerebral blood flow velocity and quality of life for patients with chronic migraine, its mechanism may be related to regulating serum levels of 5-HT, CGRP and VEGF.

Effect of Chaihu-jia-Longgu-Muli decoction on withdrawal symptoms in rats with methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference.

Traditional Chinese medicine detoxification prescription Chaihu-jia-Longgu-Muli decoction (CLMD) relieves depressive symptoms in patients withdrawing from methamphetamine. In the present study, we assessed the effects of CLMD on methamphetamine withdrawal in rats. A methamphetamine-intoxicated rat model was established. Rats were randomly divided into the control, model, high-dosage, medium-dosage, and low-dosage groups, receiving high, medium, and low doses of CLMD, respectively. Weekly body weight measurements revealed that rats treated with methamphetamine had the lowest body weight. The conditioned place preference (CPP) experiment revealed that methamphetamine-intoxicated rats stayed significantly longer in the drug-paired chamber than the control rats. However, after administering high-dosage CLMD, the amount of time the rats spent in the drug-paired chamber was significantly less than that of the model rats. Our open-field test revealed that the model group had lower crossing and rearing scores than the control group. Additionally, rats that received CLMD treatment exhibited higher crossing and rearing scores than the model rats. Striatal dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and endorphins (ß-EP) and serum interleukin (IL)-1α and IL-2 concentrations were estimated. Rats in the model group had lower striatal DA, 5-HT, and ß-EP and higher serum IL-1α and IL-2 concentrations than those in the control group. High-dosage CLMD administration significantly changed the concentrations of these molecules, such that they approached normal concentrations. In general, CLMD could prevent the development of methamphetamine-induced withdrawal symptoms in rats by increasing the DA, 5-HT, and ß-EP and lowering the IL-1α and IL-2 concentrations.

The effect of electroacupuncture on regulating pain and depression-like behaviors induced by chronic neuropathic pain.

BACKGROUND: Recently, the role of electroacupuncture (EA) in chronic neuropathic pain has been widely reported. However, its specific mechanisms and ability to mitigate depression-like behaviors induced by chronic pain remains unclear. This study aims to determine the analgesic and antidepressant effect of EA. METHODS: The mechanical threshold sensory and hot plate tests were employed to measure mechanical hyperalgesia and thermal allodynia. The open filed test (OFT) and tail suspension test (TST) were used to observe depressive behavior in chronic constrictive injury (CCI) mice. In addition, the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and brain-derived neuropathic factor (BDNF) levels in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and spinal cord were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The protein levels of cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) and BDNF in the ACC were analyzed by western blotting. RESULTS: Our results demonstrated that EA treatment could increase the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) values. Also, EA improved the CCI-induced depression-like behaviors, and significantly reversed the down-regulation of BDNF and 5-HT expression in the ACC and spinal cord after CCI. Furthermore, EA regulated the level of CREB in the ACCs and spinal cords of mice. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggested that the analgesic and antidepressant effect of EA is achieved through regulating CREB-5-HT/BDNF signaling pathway in the ACCs and spinal cords of mice.

Effect of Tongxie Yaofang on Expressions of Colon SERT and Liver 5-HT2AR Proteins in Rats with Ulcerative Colitis Model of Liver Stagnation and Spleen Deficiency / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the effect of Tongxie Yaofang on the expressions of colon serotonin transporter （SERT）， liver 5-hydroxytryptamine_2A receptor （5-HT_2AR） protein， serum 5-HT and inflammatory factors in ulcerative colitis （UC） model rats of liver stagnation and spleen deficiency， in order to explore the basis of syndrome of liver stagnation and spleen deficiency and the intervention mechanism of Tongxie Yaofang. Method:Fifty male SD rats were randomly divided into blank control group， model group， high， medium and low-dose Tongxie Yaofang group （10，5，2.5 g·kg^-1）， and salazosulacil group （0.3 g·kg^-1）. The ulcerative colitis model of liver depression and spleen deficiency was established by 2，4，6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid （TNBS）/ethanol solution enema + restraint stress + diet loss. After successful modeling， the samples were collected after 21 days of drug intervention. Htoxylin eosin （HE） staining and oil red staining were used to observe the pathological changes of colon and liver in each group. Serum interleukin-6 （IL-6）， IL-9， 5-HT and superoxide dismutase （SOD） were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Protein expressions of SERT in the colons and 5-HT_2AR in liver of rats were detected by Western blot. Result:Compared with the normal group， obvious ulcers were formed in the colon and lipid droplets in the liver increased in the model group， serum levels of IL-6， IL-9 and 5-HT in the model group increased， while the level of SOD decreased （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. The protein expression of SERT in colon decreased， whereas the protein expression of 5-HT_2AR in liver increased （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. Compare with model group， the pathological damage of colon was improved， and the formation of lipid droplets in liver was reduced in high， medium-dose Tongxie Yaofang groups and sulfasalazine group. The serum levels of IL-6， IL-9 and 5-HT decreased， while the level of SOD increased in Tongxie Yaofang group and sulfasalazine group （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. The protein expression of SERT in colon increased in high，low-dose Tongxie Yaofang groups and sulfasalazine group， and the protein expression of 5-HT_2AR in liver decreased in medium， low dose Tongxie Yaofang groups and sulfasalazine group （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. Conclusion:Tongxie Yaofang may reduce the content of 5-HT， and regulate the intestinal motility and sensory system by up-regulating the expression of SERT in the colon， inhibit the expressions of IL-6，IL-9 and other inflammatory factors， and play an anti-inflammatory role， reduce the content of 5-HT and the expression of 5-HT_2AR in the liver， increase the level of SOD， regulate emotion and lipid metabolism in the liver， and then exert the intervention effect on ulcerative colitis with liver depression and spleen deficiency on the whole.

Therapeutic Efficacies of Wujiwan at Different Compatibilities in Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To compare the therapeutic efficacies of Wujiwan at two different compatibilities （No.1 and No.2） on irritable bowel syndrome （IBS） based on neuro-endocrine-immune network， and provide a theoretical basis for the treatment based on syndrome differentiation in traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）. Method:The chronic animal model of IBS with visceral hypersensitivity was established by colon irritation via percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty （PTCA） in suckling rats. The animals were randomly divided into a control group， a model group， a dicetel group （0.01 g·kg^-1）， low- （0.335 g·kg^-<bold>¹</bold>）， medium- （0.67 g·kg^-<bold>¹</bold>）， and high-dose （1.34 g·kg^-<bold>¹</bold>） No. 1 Wujiwan groups， and low- （0.385 g·kg^-<bold>¹</bold>）， medium- （0.77 g·kg^-<bold>¹</bold>）， and high-dose （1.54 g·kg^-<bold>¹</bold>） No. 2 Wujiwan groups. The thresholds of abdominal elevation and bow back elevation were evaluated to detect the effect of Wujiwan on intestinal sensitivity of IBS. The density of mast cells （MC） in the colonic tissue of model rats was detected by the modified toluidine blue staining method. The concentrations/positive expression of 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT）， substance P （SP）， somatostatin （SS）， and vasoactive intestinal peptide （VIP） in the blood/colon tissue were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） and immunohistochemistry （IHC） assay. Result:There was no significant difference in body weight among different groups. Compared with the control group， the model group exhibited decreased thresholds of abdominal elevation and bow back elevation （<italic>P<</italic>0.01）， increased density of MCs in the colon tissue （<italic>P<</italic>0.05）， up-regulated levels of 5-HT， SP， and SS in the blood and colon tissue （<italic>P<</italic>0.05， <italic>P<</italic>0.01）， and elevated VIP level in the colon tissue （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. Compared with the model group， Wujiwan at different compatibilities could increase the thresholds of abdominal elevation and bow back elevation （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， diminish the count of MC in the colon tissue （<italic>P</italic><0.05）， and reduce the levels of 5-HT， SP， SS， and VIP （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. As demonstrated by the comparison of No. 1 and No. 2 Wujiwan， No. 1 was superior to No. 2 in reducing the concentrations of 5-HT， SP， and SS in the blood， especially in 5-HT （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. No significant difference between No. 1 and No. 2 in reducing 5-HT positive expression in the colon tissue was observed. Compared to the No. 1 Wujiwan， No. 2 significantly reduced SP expression， and the intensity and range of SS expression in the colon tissue in the No. 2 groups were smaller than those in the No. 1 groups （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. Conclusion:Wujiwan at different compatibilities was capable of improving gastrointestinal hormone disorder of IBS to reduce intestinal sensitivity. In terms of systemic effect， No. 1 was superior to No. 2， while in terms of local effect， No. 2 was advantageous. No. 1 Wujiwan was superior to No. 2 in the effect on intestinal dynamics， while No. 2 had an advantageous effect on intestinal sensation over No. 1.

Clinical Efficacy of Modified Qilang Prescription in Treatment of Drug-dependent Constipation with Qi and Yin Deficiency and Its Effect on MTL， VIP， 5-HT， and 5-HT4R in Peripheral Blood / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To investigate the curative efficacy of modified Qilang prescription on drug-dependent constipation with Qi and Yin deficiency and the effects on serum vasoactive intestinal peptide （VIP）， motilin （MTL）， 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT）， and 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor （5-HT4R）. Method:A total of 160 patients diagnosed with drug-dependent constipation were randomly divided into a treatment group （<italic>n</italic>=80， Qilang prescription） and a control group （<italic>n</italic>=80， lactulose oral solution）. The treatment lasted for eight weeks. Changes in clinical symptoms， traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndrome， and serum VIP， MTL， 5-HT， and 5-HT4R before and after treatment were observed. The clinical efficacies of the two groups were compared. An eight-week follow-up was carried out for the observation of recurrent rate and TCM syndrome. Result:The overall response rate of the treatment group （90.91%） was higher than that （75.00%） of the control group<italic> </italic>（<italic>Z</italic>=-6.514，<italic>P</italic><0.05）. There was no significant difference in serum VIP， MTL， 5-HT， and 5-HT4R between the two groups before treatment. After treatment for eight weeks， both groups showed reduced serum VIP level as compared with those before treatment， and the treatment group was inferior to the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. The serum MTL levels of the two groups were both higher than those before treatment （<italic>P</italic><0.05）， and the treatment group was superior to the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. After treatment， the level of 5-HT in the treatment group was higher than that in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. The post-treatment 5-HT4R level in the treatment group slightly increased （<italic>P</italic><0.05）， but no significant difference in 5-HT4R levels between the two groups after treatment was observed. During the eight-week follow-up， the recurrence rate in the treatment group was significantly lower than that in the control group at the 2nd and 4th weeks （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. There was no significant difference in the recurrence rate between the treatment group ［57.14% （40/70）］ and the control group ［64.81% （35/54）］ after eight weeks. Conclusion:Modified Qilang prescription was superior to lactulose in the short- and mid-term efficacy on drug-dependent constipation with Qi and Yin deficiency. No significant difference in the long-term efficacy was observed. The underlying therapeutic mechanism might be related to the regulation of serum VIP， MTL， 5-HT， and 5-HT4R levels.

Different Processed Products of Curcumae Radix Regulate Pain-Related Substances in a Rat Model of Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis.

BACKGROUND: Curcumae blood Radix (Yujin) has been widely used to treat Qi stagnation and stasis in TCM. According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, the tuberous roots of Curcuma longed L. (i.e., Huangsiyujin, HSYJ) is one of the major species of Yujin. According to the processing theory of TCM, stir-frying HSYJ with vinegar might strengthen the effect of dispersing stagnated hepatoqi to relieve pain, and stir-frying HSYJ with wine might strengthen the effect of promoting blood circulation in order to remove blood stasis. However, the mechanism for the enhancement of clinical efficacy by processing is unclear. AIM/HYPOTHESIS: This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of different processed products of HSYJ on chemical constituents and pain-related substances to explore underlying mechanisms of HSYJ in treating pain caused by Qi stagnation and blood stasis. METHODS: The effects of different processing methods on the paste yield of water decoction were analyzed, and the content of the main constituents were detected by HPLC. A rat model of Qi stagnation and blood stasis was established by tail clamp stimulation combined with subcutaneous adrenaline injection. After treatment and intervention with HSYJ and its processed products, ß-endorphin (ß-EP) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were measured by ELISA, and the expression of c-fos was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: After stir-frying with vinegar or wine, the extract yield and curcumin content increased. Compared with model group, raw HSYJ could significantly improve the abnormality of 5-HT in plasma (P < 0.05) and ß-EP in brain (P < 0.01). Stir-frying HSYJ with vinegar or wine could significantly improve the abnormality of 5-HT in plasma, ß-EP in brain, and the expression of c-fos (P < 0.01). Stir-frying HSYJ with vinegar could also significantly increase the level of ß-EP in plasma (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: These results showed that different processing methods have certain effects on the chemical constituents of HSYJ, mainly in increasing the decoction rate and curcumin content. HSYJ and its processed products can reduce 5-HT levels, increase ß-EP levels, and inhibit the expression of c-fos in model rats. The effects of stir-frying HSYJ with vinegar on ß-EP levels in plasma was superior to others.

Vitamin A improves the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders and decreases 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT): A pilot study.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complicated neurodevelopmental disorders. Many studies have demonstrated that children with autism have multiple nutritional deficiencies and increased serum 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels. In our previous study, 77.9% of autistic children were found to have vitamin A deficiency, and the concentration of vitamin A was negatively associated with the CARS score. In the present study, we sought to test whether vitamin A supplementation could improve autistic symptoms and decrease serum 5-HT levels. The DSM-V criteria and CARS score were used for symptom description and symptom assessment of the patients, respectively, before and after vitamin A supplementation (VAS). Serum retinol and 5-HT levels, mRNA levels of RAR α, ß, and γ and TpH 1 expression were detected in autistic children before and after VAS and in normal children. Serum retinol levels in children with ASD were significantly lower than in control children. Serum 5-HT levels in children with ASD were higher than in control children, which were correlated with symptom severity of children with autism. After VA supplementation, the children with ASD exhibited significant improvement in autism symptoms. Serum retinol concentrations of children with ASD were significantly increased, and serum 5-HT levels were decreased. Moreover, statistically significant changes were observed in mRNA expression levels of RAR α, RAR γ and TpH 1 after VAS compared to baseline. This study suggested that VA supplementation may improve symptoms and reduce 5-HT levels in children with ASD, indicating that VA supplementation is a reasonable therapy at least for a subset of children with autism.

[Clinical observation of blood-letting to reduce pressure plus electroacupuncture for acute scapulohumeral periarthritis].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical effect of blood-letting to reduce pressure combined with electro-acupuncture for acute scapulohumeral periarthritis and to explore its mechanism. METHODS: Sixty-six patients were randomly assigned into an observation group (34 cases) and a control group (32 cases).Electroacupuncture (EA) was used at Jianyu (LI 15), Jianliao (TE 14), Jianqian (Extra), Jianzhen (SI 9), Quchi (LI 11) and ashi points in the two groups, once a day for 9 days. Besides, blood-letting to reduce pressure was applied at ashi points in the observation group, namely cupping therapy after blood-letting puncture 3 times, 3-10 mL a time,once 3 days. Ibuprofen capsules were prescribed orally for 9 days in the control group, 0.3 g a time,twice a day. 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (5-HT) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) of blood in the cups were tested by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay after the first and third blood-letting in the observation group. The changes of numerical rating scale (NRS) grades for pain and shoulder joint movements were observed. The comprehensive effects of the two groups were evaluated. RESULTS: The contents of 5-HT and PGE2 after the third blood-letting apparently decreased compared with those after the first operation in the observation group (both P<0.001). The grades of NRS and shoulder movements were obviously improved after treatment in the two groups (all P<0.001),with better results in the observation group (both P<0.05). The result of 4 cured cases, 20 apparently effective cases, 9 effective cases and 1 noneffective case in the observation group was superior to that of 1, 10, 15, 6 in the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Blood-letting therapy combined with EA can ease pain and improve shoulder joint function of scapulohumeral periarthritis,and the effect is better than that of ibuprofen combined with EA. The mechanism may be related to directly discharging the inflammatory substances in local blood of the affected shoulder.