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  4. Suspended moxibustion at Tianshu (ST25) inhibits prokineticin-1 and prokineticin receptor-1 expression in the spinal cord of rats with chronic visceral hypersensitivity

Suspended moxibustion at Tianshu (ST25) inhibits prokineticin-1 and prokineticin receptor-1 expression in the spinal cord of rats with chronic visceral hypersensitivity

Neural Regen Res, 2012 · DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.15.004 · Published: May 1, 2012

Alternative MedicinePain ManagementGastroenterology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the effect of suspended moxibustion on chronic visceral hypersensitivity (CVH) in rats, a model for irritable bowel syndrome. The researchers focused on prokineticin 1 (PK1) and its receptor (PKR1) in the spinal cord, as these are involved in pain signaling. The findings suggest that suspended moxibustion can reduce visceral sensitivity and decrease the expression of PK1 and PKR1 in the spinal cord, potentially alleviating pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Study Duration
October to December 2009
Participants
24 Sprague-Dawley rats
Evidence Level
Animal study

Key Findings

  • 1
    Suspended moxibustion at Tianshu (ST25) significantly decreased visceral sensitivity to colorectal distention in rats with CVH.
  • 2
    Protein and mRNA expression of prokineticin 1 and prokineticin receptor 1 in the spinal cord of rats was significantly decreased after suspended moxibustion.
  • 3
    The study suggests that prokineticin 1 and prokineticin receptor 1 are involved in the analgesia induced by suspended moxibustion in rats with chronic visceral hyperalgesia.

Research Summary

This study aimed to verify if rat spinal cord prokineticin 1 and its receptor contribute to the analgesic effect of suspended moxibustion in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome where rats display chronic visceral hypersensitivity. Results showed that suspended moxibustion at Tianshu (ST25) point significantly decreased visceral sensitivity to colorectal distention in a chronic visceral hyperalgesia rat model; also protein and mRNA expression of prokineticin 1 and prokineticin receptor 1 in the spinal cord of rats was significantly decreased. Experimental findings indicate that prokineticin 1 and prokineticin receptor 1 are involved in the analgesia using suspended moxibustion in rats with chronic visceral hyperalgesia.

Practical Implications

Potential Therapeutic Target

PK1 and PKR1 could be potential therapeutic targets for managing visceral pain in conditions like IBS.

Mechanism of Moxibustion

The study provides insights into the mechanisms by which moxibustion may alleviate visceral hypersensitivity.

Alternative Treatment Modality

Suspended moxibustion may be a beneficial alternative treatment for patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Animal model may not fully replicate human IBS.
  • 2
    Specific mechanisms of moxibustion's effects require further investigation.
  • 3
    Limited to the evaluation of PK1 and PKR1 expression.

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