Bridging tradition and innovation: Acupuncture for depression through clinical efficacy and neurobiological insights

To elucidate the research progress on acupuncture therapy as a complementary and alternative medicine treatment for depression by reviewing existing literature.

We conducted a comprehensive search across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for relevant literature from inception to October 7, 2024. Additionally, we manually searched medical literature related to Chinese Medicine and acupuncture for pertinent theories and theoretical frameworks.

Manual acupuncture (MA) and electroacupuncture (EA) are the most commonly studied forms of acupuncture, demonstrating efficacy in modulating depression both as standalone therapies and as adjunct therapies for antidepressants in the short to medium-term. Other modalities such as auricular acupuncture, laser acupuncture, and warm acupuncture have also shown benefits in managing depression. The therapeutic mechanisms of acupuncture are multifaceted, including modulation of neural networks, regulation of neurotransmitters, neurotrophic factors, and neuropeptides, inhibition of neuroinflammation and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity, restoration of neuroplasticity, modulation of specific gene expression, and regulation of intestinal flora. Recent studies emphasize the need for collaboration between acupuncture, engineering, and modern technology for the future development of acupuncture techniques.

Acupuncture has shown efficacy in treating depression through multi-targeted modulation within the body. Moving forward, acupuncture is poised to enhance its practice by cooperating with engineering and digital technologies to offer patients more comprehensive and personalized treatment plans.