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[Development of research on mechanisms of acupuncture intervention on ischemic stroke and its relationship with
Rong Wang1,2, Jun-Feng Xu3
1Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China.
Abstract:
Microglia, the main phagocytic cells in the brain, play a key role in inflammatory response and neuroprotection in ischemic stroke, and are potential targets for the treatment of ischemic stroke. Multiple studies have confirmed that the effect of acupuncture on ischemic stroke is closely related to its effect in regulating the activities of microglia. In the present paper, we reviewed the role of microglia in ischemic stroke and the current research status of acupuncture intervention, and prospects the future research direction. Past researches showed that microglia have a bidirectional role in the pathological process of cerebral ischemia, that is, M1 microglia can secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines, participate in the damage of the blood-brain barrier, and aggravate the damage of neurotoxicity, and M2 microglia can secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines, nerve growth factors, neurotrophic factors, improve neuroplasticity and promote vascular remodeling. Acupuncture can exert brain protective effects by regulating the activation and polarization direction of microglia, inhibiting inflammatory reactions, maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, promoting vascular remodeling, and promoting nerve regeneration. However, whether acupuncture intervention in different periods can affect the response of microglia and how it affects, and whether different acupuncture parameters have different effects on the regulation of microglia, it needs further research. In addition, more in-depth and multi-angle systematic studies on polarization of microglia, secretion factors, cell relationships, upstream and downstream regulatory factors and other aspects with microglia are definitely needed.
Insights
Acupuncture influences microglia, brain immune cells, to protect against ischemic stroke. Further research is needed to understand how acupuncture timing and parameters modulate these crucial cells for stroke treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Microglia are key brain phagocytes involved in ischemic stroke pathology.
- Microglia exhibit bidirectional roles: M1 promotes inflammation, M2 promotes neuroprotection and repair.
- Acupuncture's therapeutic effects in ischemic stroke are linked to microglial modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of microglia in ischemic stroke.
- To examine the current research on acupuncture's intervention in microglial activity.
- To identify future research directions for optimizing acupuncture therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on microglia in ischemic stroke.
- Analysis of research on acupuncture's effects on microglial activation and polarization.
- Synthesis of findings to outline current understanding and future needs.
Main Results:
- Microglia (M1/M2 states) critically influence ischemic stroke outcomes.
- Acupuncture demonstrates neuroprotective effects by regulating microglial polarization.
- Acupuncture helps maintain blood-brain barrier integrity and promotes neural repair.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture offers therapeutic potential for ischemic stroke via microglial pathway modulation.
- Further research is essential to elucidate the impact of acupuncture timing and parameters on microglia.
- In-depth studies are required on microglial polarization, factors, and regulatory networks for advanced therapeutic strategies.
