Effect of Acupoint-apitherapy on Cytokine Gene Expression of Synovial Tissues in Adjuvant Arthritis Rats[J]. Acupuncture research, 2002, (1): 64-67.DOI:
有利于RA病情的缓解Objective: To study the effect of acupoint apitherapy on the expression of IL 1β mRNA and IL 6 mRNA and to analyze its mechanisms in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: A total of 40 rats were randomly and evenly divided into normal control group
model group
hormone (hydrocortisone) group and acupoint apitherapy group. RA model was established by injecting Freund's adjuvant (0.05 mL)into the right hind paw. For rats of hormone group
intraperitoneal injection of hydrocortisone (10 mg/2 mL) was performed. In acupoint apitherapy group
"Shenshu"(BL 23)
"Zusanli"(ST 36)
"Mingmen"(GV 4) and "Dazhui"(GV 14) were stimulated with bee needle pricking method. IL 1β mRNA and IL 6 mRNA expression of synovial tissues (right knee joint capsule) was detected using PCR microplate sandwich hybridization technique. Results:In comparison with normal control group
IL 1β mRNA and IL 6 mRNA expression of synovial tissues increased considerably in model group (P<0.01). There was no statistical difference between acupoint apitherapy group and hormone group in IL 1β mRNA and IL 6 mRNA expression
but the expressions in these two groups were significantly weaker than those of model group. Conclusion:Acupoint apitherapy could induce upregulation of IL 1β mRNA and IL 6 mRNA expression in RA rats
which may be responsible for apitherapy generated relief of symptoms and signs of RA.