Objective To observe the effect of electroacupuncture(EA)at"Zusanli"(ST 36)on Ghrelin/cAMP/PKA expression in the jejunum in rats with spleen qi deficiency syndrome

so as to reveal its underlying mechanism in improving energy metabolism.Methods Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into 4groups:normal group

spleen qi deficiency syndrome(model)group

EA group and non-acupoint group(n=10in each group).The model of spleen qi deficiency syndrome was established by improper diet and overstrain.EA(2Hz/15 Hz

0.5mA)was applied to bilateral"Zusanli"(ST 36)in the EA group and non-acupoint in non-acupoint group for 20 min

once a day for 6days.The pathologic changes of the jejunum tissue were detected by H&E staining.Ghrelin

ATP and cAMP levels in jejunum tissue were determined by ELISA.The expression levels of PKA protein in jejunum tissue were determined by Western blot.Results H&E staining showed that the intestinal villi of the model group were swelling

shortening and thickening

with a damaged or broken top-part in the model group

and basically restored to normal after EA treatment.ELISA results showed that the contents of Ghrelin

ATP and cAMP in the jejunum tissue were significantly lower in the model group than in the normal group(P<0.05)

while significantly higher in the EA group than in the model group(P<0.05).Western blot results showed that the expression of PKA protein in the jejunum tissue was significantly lower in the model group than in the normal group(P<0.05)

and significantly higher in the EA group than in the model group and non-acupoint group(P<0.05).Conclusion EA at ST 36 can improve the morphological changes in the jejunum of spleen qi deficiency rats

which may be associated with its effects in increasing Ghrelin

ATP and cAMP contents

and up-regulating PKA expression

leading to an increase of energy metabolism and spleen qi at last.