[Approach to brain effect research: exploring the connection among "acupoint sensitization, mental-physical response...

The classical statement, "feeling comfortable when acupoint is pressed" in Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic ) is regarded as the origin of acupoint theory. "Feeling comfortable" following "acupoint is pressed" refers to the subjective experiences of patient, which reflects a close connection among "acupoint sensitization, mental-physical response and deqi ". Centered on 3 essential links, "acupoint sensitization", "mental-physical response" and "deqi ", this study systematically reviews and comments on the current research of the local manifestations and brain mechanisms of deqi and acupoint sensitization; and it specially focuses on the research progress on acupoint and brain effect. This study aims to propose the idea of brain effect research from the perspective of the relationship among "acupoint sensitization, mental-physical response and deqi ", so as to provide theoretical basis and research framework for revealing the central mechanism and optimizing clinical efficacy of acupuncture intervention.