Objective To observe different brain effects of electroacupuncture(EA) stimulation of Guanyuan(CV 4) and Zusanli(ST 36) in the normal subjects by using functional magnetic resonance image(fMRI).Methods Twenty-one healthy volu-nteers were recruited in the present study.fMRI was used to investigate brain responses [blood-oxygenation-level-dependent(BOLD) signals] to EA stimulation of CV 4 and ST 36.A filiform silver needle was inserted into CV 4 or the left ST 36 randomly in two consecutive fMRI tests

and then manipulated with uniform reducing-reinforcing methods to induce "Deqi".fMRI scan was performed before needling

during needle retention

during EA stimulation

and post-EA.Volunteer's subjective needling sensations were recorded after EA.Data of fMRI were analyzed by using software SPM 2 and fMRI was mapped by Degree Centrality Mea-sure method for whole brain correlation.The activation

deactivation

short-distance and long-distance functional connectivity maps of cerebral regions were investigated.Results The fullness and numbness feelings of the subjects were stronger during EA at ST 36 than at CV 4.EA at ST 36 or CV 4 induced apparent similar deactivation effects in the anterior cingulate and medial prefrontal cortices.The default mode of the brain at rest state was modified by needle retention and EA stimulation

respectively.The functional brain network was significantly changed after EA.The instant post-acupuncture effects(enhancement of the shortdistance functional connectivity) were mainly found in the ventral medial prefrontal cortex(VMPF) and ventral anterior cingulate cortex(vACC) in the limbic-paralimbic-neocortical network

and there were a little bit stronger signals in ST 36 than in CV 4.Conclusion EA stimulation of CV 4 and ST 36 induces a similar modulation effect in the limbic-medial prefrontal network in healthy subjects.