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Acupuncture's Multisystem Neuroimmunomodulation: Central-Peripheral Interactions in Gastroenteric, Psychiatric, and
Lijuan Zhang1,2, Yucai Luo1, Ting Wei1
1Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics
|November 7, 2025
Summary
Acupuncture effectively treats complex diseases by modulating central-peripheral interactions across neural, immune, and endocrine systems. This integrative approach offers a scientifically grounded therapy for conditions like chronic pain and gastrointestinal disorders.
Area of Science:
- Integrative neurology
- Systems biology
- Neuroimmunology
Background:
- Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, is recognized for its efficacy.
- Central-peripheral interactions are key to acupuncture's therapeutic effects.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for modern disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review acupuncture's mechanisms of action.
- To explore its role in bridging neural, immune, and endocrine systems.
- To examine its application in complex modern diseases.
Main Methods:
- Integration of neuroimaging and mechanistic studies.
- Focus on central-peripheral crosstalk.
- Analysis of functional gastrointestinal disorders, psychiatric disorders, and chronic pain.
Main Results:
- Acupuncture demonstrates therapeutic benefits via multisystem modulation.
- Key mechanisms include neural circuitry dynamics and neuro-immune-endocrine integration.
- Systemic effects remodel pathophysiological networks, improving clinical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture is an integrative therapy supported by systems biology.
- Future research should focus on precision protocols using omics and neuroimaging.
- This approach promises advancements in integrative neurology and complex disease treatment.
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