To investigate the role and interrelation of nitric oxide and β receptor in moxibustion treatment of asthma in guinea pigs. Method: 50 guinea pigs were randomly divided into five groups: (1) control group(A); (2)asthma group(B); (3)moxibustion group(C); (4)L NAME group(D); and (5)L NAME plus moxibustion group(E). The Bmax and kd (equilibrium dissociation constant)of β receptors of the lung tissue cellular membrane

and nitric oxide (NO - 2/NO - 3)levels in the plasma

bronchovesicular lavage fluid (BALF)and lung tissues were examined. Result: In comparison with control group

BALF NO - 2/NO - 3 content of group B increased

while the Bmax of the combination of the lung cellular membrane agent and 3 H DHA decreased. Compared with group B

the contents of NO - 2/NO - 3in BALF of group C

D and E decreased

while the Bmax values in the above 3 groups increased

had no obvious change and increased separately. Conclusion: During moxibustion treatment

nitric oxide and the Bmax of β receptors presented a negative correlation while L NAME hadn't any obvious affection on the Bmax of β receptors in guinea pigs.