Journal of International Medical Research, 2019 · DOI: 10.1177/0300060519883748 · Published: April 1, 2019
This study investigates how electroacupuncture (EA) reduces neuropathic pain in rats by focusing on adenosine A1 receptors (A1Rs) in the spinal cord. The research found that EA increases adenosine levels and A1R expression in the spinal cord, which helps to alleviate pain. Blocking A1Rs reversed the pain-relieving effect of EA. The findings suggest that EA's analgesic effect on neuropathic pain is partly due to the activation of A1Rs in the spinal cord.
The findings support the use of electroacupuncture as a potential treatment for neuropathic pain, particularly by targeting adenosine A1 receptors.
The study highlights the importance of adenosine A1 receptors as a therapeutic target for pain relief, suggesting potential avenues for drug development.
The research provides insights into the mechanisms underlying the analgesic effects of acupuncture, particularly the role of adenosine and its receptors in the spinal cord.