Abstract:

Objective    To explore the effect of electro-acupuncture on expression of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans(CSPGs) in the injured tissue of the transected completely spinal cord, and its mechanism in the repair of spinal cord injury（SCI）. Methods    Forty adult rats were divided into the normal control group, the model group and the electroacupuncture group (EC group). All rats underwent completely transection between segments T9 and T10 of the spinal cord. Electroacupuncture treatment started on the same day after operation in the EC group. The rats were sacrificed on 7d, 14d and 28d after operation. Expression of CSPGs in the tissue of the injured spinal cord was determined by immunohistochemical staining. The immunopositive gray scale of the immune reactant was detected with computer image analysis technique. Results    Expression of CSPGs in the injured spinal cord was apparently increased in the model group from 7d to 28d after operation, compared with the normal control group（P<0.05）.  Expression of CSPGs in the injured spinal cord was remarkably inhibited by electroacupuncture treatment, compared with the model group（P<0.05）. Conclusion     Electro-acupuncture can significantly reduce expression of CSPGs, which is an inhibitor of axon regeneration after SCI. And this effect may be one of the mechanisms by which electro-acupuncture can promote functional recovery after SCI.

Key words: Electroacupuncture; Spinal cord injuries; Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan; Rats