Proteomics Analysis of the Spinal Dorsal Horn in Diabetic Painful Neuropathy Rats With Electroacupuncture Treatment

Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2021 · DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.608183 · Published: June 10, 2021

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the molecular mechanisms behind electroacupuncture's (EA) effectiveness in relieving diabetic painful neuropathy (DPN). Clinical evidence suggests EA at specific acupoints is effective, but the underlying mechanisms need further exploration. The study uses proteomics analysis to identify potential biomarkers in the spinal dorsal horn of rats with DPN. This involves quantifying differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and conducting bioinformatics analyses to understand the main protein targets of EA. The results show that EA treatment significantly increased the mechanical pain threshold and decreased fasting blood glucose levels in DPN rats. Proteomics analysis identified thousands of proteins, with a subset showing differential expression upon EA treatment.

Study Duration

4 weeks

Participants

36 Sprague-Dawley adult male rats

Evidence Level

Level 2: Experimental study

Key Findings

1
Electroacupuncture (EA) significantly increased the mechanical pain threshold in rats with diabetic painful neuropathy (DPN).
2
EA treatment significantly decreased fasting blood glucose levels in the DPN rat model.
3
Proteomics analysis identified 5393 proteins, with differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) showing involvement in oxidative stress injury regulation during EA effects on DPN.

Research Summary

This study investigates the protein biomarkers associated with the effectiveness of electroacupuncture (EA) in treating diabetic painful neuropathy (DPN) in rats. The study reveals that EA treatment improves mechanical pain threshold and reduces blood glucose levels in DPN rats. Proteomics analysis identified key proteins involved in oxidative stress regulation. The findings suggest that EA's analgesic, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic effects are linked to specific protein biomarkers, providing insights into DPN pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.

Practical Implications

Biomarker Identification

The study identifies potential protein biomarkers that can be used for the diagnosis and treatment of DPN.

Therapeutic Mechanisms

The research provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of EA, particularly its role in regulating oxidative stress.

Clinical Applications

The findings support the clinical use of EA as a treatment for DPN and offer a basis for optimizing acupuncture protocols.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to a rat model, and the findings may not directly translate to humans.
2
The study focuses on the spinal dorsal horn, and other relevant areas of the nervous system may not be fully represented.
3
Further research is needed to validate the identified protein biomarkers and elucidate their specific roles in DPN pathogenesis and EA treatment.

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