Effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on stress‐induced increases in CRH

We have recently shown EA at stomach 36 (EASt36) blocks chronic stress‐induced increases in ACTH and CORT. This study determined if similar changes occur in CRH levels in the PVN. Male S‐D rats with jugular catheters were subjected to 14 days of cold stress (1 hr/day in ice water), or no stress (controls). EA (sham‐EA vs EASt36) was performed each day following stress. Compared to non‐stressed controls, stress increased PVN CRH protein by 130% (p<0.01) and CRH mRNA expression by 4.7‐fold (p<0.05). In contrast, EASt36 prevented the increases in mRNA expression and significantly decreased protein expression (p<0.05 vs stress). Blocking CORT type 2 receptors with RU486 resulted in suppression of the stress‐induced increase in CRH mRNA in all groups. This may be explained by an increase in other compensatory stress mechanisms, especially the SNS (NE, NPY) when the HPA is blocked. These findings further support EA, specifically at ST36, as suppressing chronic stress‐induced increases in HP hormones at a central level, possibly through direct actions in the PVN. This novel work strengthens the potential for EASt36 as a significant therapeutic intervention in chronic stress. Supported by AANA Research Grant