Electroacupuncture ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction and alleviates traumatic brain injury via the PANX1/ATP/Ca²⁺...

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) involves complex pathophysiological processes. This study investigates the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on mitochondrial dysfunction and TBI in rats through the PANX1/ATP/Ca²⁺ pathway, thereby providing effective intervention targets for TBI. A TBI rat model was established using the cortical controlled impact method, followed by behavioral tests (modified neurological severity score, rotarod test, grip strength test, and balance beam test) to assess the neurological function. Brain edema, neuronal apoptosis, and oxidative stress were evaluated using histological staining, Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting. The results showed that EA treatment significantly improved the motor coordination, reduced the brain water content, and preserved neuronal integrity. Moreover, EA reduced levels of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis markers. EA also inhibited the PANX1/ATP/Ca²⁺ pathway, Ca²⁺ levels, caspase-3 activation, and mitochondrial Cyt C, while enhancing ATP, NAD+ /NADPH levels, and mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activity. These findings suggest that EA mitigates mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, thereby improving neurological outcomes and reducing brain edema in TBI rats. Inhibition of PANX1 expression further confirmed its role in modulating TBI-related pathology via the PANX1/ATP/Ca²⁺ axis.