Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026

Development of an Economical DNA Delivery System by "Acufection" and its Application to Skin Research
Published on: April 19, 2017
[Cellular reaction of the skin and underlying tissues on prolonged acupuncture needle introduction]
Abstract:
The changes of a skin and hypodermic are studied at the prolonged introduction (till 3 months) original acupuncture needles under a skin of an auricle and neck at rats by the technique Muhina M.M. In early terms in an introduction place develops an aseptic (or septic) inflammation reaching of peak in 1-2 weeks. On a measure reduction of inflammatory reaction activation of epydermis (keratinocites) which acquire from periphery an acupuncture needle is marked, isolating it from surrounding tissues and forming the implant channel (acustract). Formation process of acustract comes to the end through 2 - 2,5 months.
Insights
Prolonged acupuncture needle insertion in rats causes initial inflammation, followed by epidermal cell activation. This process isolates the needle, forming a stable implant channel (acustract) within 2-2.5 months.
Area of Science:
- Histology
- Biomaterials Science
- Acupuncture Research
Background:
- Acupuncture is a traditional therapy with growing scientific interest.
- Understanding the tissue response to implanted acupuncture needles is crucial for safety and efficacy.
- Previous studies have not fully elucidated the long-term tissue integration dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the histological changes in skin and hypodermic tissues following prolonged acupuncture needle insertion in rats.
- To characterize the formation of the implant channel around the acupuncture needle.
Main Methods:
- Subcutaneous implantation of original acupuncture needles in the auricle and neck of rats for up to 3 months.
- Histological analysis using the Muhina M.M. technique to observe tissue reactions.
- Monitoring inflammatory responses and cellular activity over time.
Main Results:
- Early stages (1-2 weeks) show aseptic or septic inflammation at the insertion site.
- Reduced inflammation correlates with activated epidermis (keratinocytes) surrounding the needle.
- Formation of a distinct implant channel (acustract) by 2-2.5 months, isolating the needle.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged acupuncture needle insertion induces a dynamic tissue response.
- The formation of an acustract is a key adaptation, encapsulating the needle.
- This study provides insights into the biocompatibility and tissue integration of acupuncture needles.
