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Cerebral protective effect of acupuncture based on its regulative effect on programmed cell death
Gong-Ming Yuan1, Feng-Ya Su1, Pei-Yun Li1
1Research Center of Experimental Acupuncture Science, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China.
Zhen Ci Yan Jiu = Acupuncture Research
|March 9, 2025
Summary
Acupuncture therapy protects the brain by regulating programmed cell death (PCD) pathways, including apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis. This approach offers a modern perspective on traditional acupuncture
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Integrative Medicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Abnormal programmed cell death (PCD) is implicated in various encephalopathies.
- Acupuncture demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects across numerous brain diseases.
- Acupuncture's therapeutic actions involve complex multi-point, networked, bidirectional, and holistic regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the neuroprotective mechanisms of acupuncture therapy.
- To elucidate how acupuncture modulates different forms of programmed cell death in the brain.
- To provide a scientific basis for acupuncture's efficacy in treating brain diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on acupuncture's effects on cell apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis.
- Analysis of studies investigating acupuncture in animal models of neurological disorders.
- Synthesis of evidence linking acupuncture to the regulation of specific cell death pathways.
Main Results:
- Acupuncture mitigates cell apoptosis by protecting mitochondria and enhancing blood-brain barrier permeability.
- Acupuncture modulates cell autophagy, contributing to neuroprotection.
- Acupuncture inhibits pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and necroptosis by targeting inflammasomes, iron metabolism, and specific kinases.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture effectively protects the brain through the regulation of diverse programmed cell death pathways.
- Future research integrating AI and big data can enhance the understanding and application of acupuncture for encephalopathy.
- Acupuncture's traditional benefits can be explained through its role in modulating programmed cell death.
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