Electroacupuncture promotes the recovery of motor neuron function in the anterior horn of the injured spinal cord

This study explores how electroacupuncture can help recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats. SCI often leads to loss of motor function, and finding effective treatments is crucial. The researchers used electroacupuncture on specific points (Zusanli, Xuanzhong, Futu, and Sanyinjiao) after inducing SCI in rats. They then compared these rats to a control group that didn't receive acupuncture. The study looked at several factors, including levels of a substance called acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the number of healthy nerve cells (neurons), and levels of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), which helps nerve cells survive. They also assessed the rats' motor function using standard tests.

• 1
  Electroacupuncture increased AChE activity at the injury site in the spinal cord. This suggests improved nerve function and communication.
• 2
  The treatment led to a greater number of healthy neurons in the anterior horn of the spinal cord, indicating that electroacupuncture helped protect these cells from damage after SCI.
• 3
  Electroacupuncture upregulated GDNF mRNA expression, promoting nerve cell survival and repair. This shows that electroacupuncture can stimulate the body's own healing mechanisms.