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Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Manipulation of Epileptiform Electrocorticograms (ECoGs) and Sleep in Rats and Mice by Acupuncture
Published on: December 22, 2016
Acetylcholine release, EEG spectral analysis, sleep staging and body temperature studies: a multiparametric approach
David Crouzier1, Dominique Baubichon, Frédéric Bourbon
1Unité de Biophysique cellulaire et Moléculaire, Centre de Recherches du Service Santé des Armées, 24 Avenue des Maquis du Grésivaudan, BP 87-38 702 La Tronche Cedex, France. david.crouzier@wanadoo.fr
Abstract:
We present a neurochemical, electrophysiological and physiological study on freely moving rats. During 3 days, we have simultaneously monitored acetylcholine (ACh) release in the hippocampus using the microdialysis technique, electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram (EMG) and subcutaneous temperature. A spectral analysis of EEG was performed and sleep stages were determined. Energy ratio in the delta (0-4 Hz), slow theta (4-6.5 Hz) and fast theta (6.5-9 Hz) band was calculated. Sleep stages were quantified using an automatic staging method. The circadian cycle of these parameters was observed. Waking, body temperature and ACh release presented synchronized cycles with close acrophases. The relationship between the central cholinergic system and the other parameters is discussed. The influence of handling on the measured parameters, as well as possible artifacts linked to the use of neostigmine in the microdialysis method are considered. Attention was focused on the cholinergic control of EEG theta rhythms.

