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Updated: Jun 1, 2026
06:39
Bioluminescence Imaging of Heme Oxygenase-1 Upregulation in the Gua Sha Procedure
Published on: August 28, 2009
Guasha-induced hepatoprotection in chronic active hepatitis B: a case study
Suk-tak Chan1, John W M Yuen, Mayur-Danny I Gohel
1Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA 02129, United States. phoebe@nmr.mgh.harvard.edu
Summary
Guasha therapy reduced liver inflammation markers in a hepatitis B patient. This ancient technique increased Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a key factor in liver protection.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Immunology
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Background:
- Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) exhibits hepatoprotective properties in animal models of hepatitis.
- Guasha, a traditional therapeutic technique, has been observed to upregulate HO-1 expression.
Observation:
- A case study investigated the effects of Guasha on a chronic active hepatitis B carrier.
- Pre-Guasha assessment revealed elevated liver enzymes (ALT and AST), indicative of hepatic inflammation.
Findings:
- Following Guasha, a decline in liver enzymes (ALT and AST) was observed, suggesting reduced inflammation.
- Plasma HO-1 levels increased, and a modulation of T-helper (Th)1/Th2 cytokine balance occurred post-Guasha.
Implications:
- Guasha therapy demonstrated a transient reduction in inflammatory markers associated with liver injury in humans.
- The observed enhancement of HO-1 suggests its potential role in the hepatoprotective effects of Guasha.
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