Partial correlation investigation on the default mode network involved in acupuncture: an fMRI study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Acupuncture Research
• Brain Connectivity Studies

Background:

• Acupuncture's effects can persist post-stimulation, influencing the default mode network (DMN).
• Understanding how specific acupoints modulate brain networks is crucial for therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate electro-acupuncture stimulation (EAS) effects on DMN intrinsic connectivity.
• To determine if specific acupoints (GB37, BL60, KI8) and a sham point differentially modulate the DMN.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a partial correlation approach to analyze DMN connectivity.
• Applied EAS to three acupoints and one sham point on the left leg.
• Compared DMN connectivity in pre- and post-stimulation states.

Main Results:

• EAS modulated the DMN, with distinct patterns observed for each of the four points.
• The posterior cingulate cortex and precuneus (PCC/pC) maintained strong interactions, but correlation with the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) was interrupted.
• The orbital prefrontal cortex (OFC) showed negative interaction with the left medial temporal cortex (lMTC) at acupoints.

Conclusions:

• Distinct acupoints and the sham point induce unique modulation patterns on the DMN.
• Observed changes in connectivity suggest specific neurophysiological effects of EAS at different points.
• Findings contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying acupuncture's influence on brain networks.