Objective To observe the effect of the eye-acupuncture therapy on serum and colonic substance P(SP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide(VIP) contents in rats with irritable bowel syndrome(IBS) so as to explore its underlying mechanism.Methods Forty male Wistar rats were equally randomized into control group

IBS model group

eye-acupuncture group and medication(Pinaverium bromide

7.5mg/kg

twice daily

intragastric administration) group.IBS model was established by giving the rat with chronic stress stimulation(cold-water swimming

tail clamping

electrical shock

etc.) for 18 days.Eye-acupuncture of Xiajiao(Low Energizer) Area

Pi(Spleen) Area

Gan(Liver) Area and Dachang(Large Intestine) Area was given to the rat 20min

twice daily for 7d.Histopathological changes of the colon tissue were displayed by HE staining;and serum and colonic SP and VIP contents were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Results No significant difference was found among 4 groups in the histopathological changes of the colon.In comparison with normal control group

both serum and colonic SP and VIP contents in model group increased significantly(P<0.01)

while compared with model group

those in eye-acupuncture and medication groups lowered considerably(P<0.01).Conclusion Eye-acupuncture can reduce serum and colonic SP and VIP contents in IBS rats

which may play a role in relieving IBS in eye-acupuncture clinic.