Objective To observe the effect of electroacupuncture(EA) on the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3(SOCS-3) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor(PPAR)-γ genes in the epididymis adipose tissue of obesity rats so as to explore its mechanism underlying weight reduction.Methods SD rats were randomized into normal control

obesity model

EA-5 mA and EA-1 mA groups(10 rats/group).EA stimulation(6 Hz/20 Hz

5 mA or 1 mA) was delivered to the bi-lateral "Zusanli"(ST 36) and "Sanyinjiao"(SP 6) for 15 min

once everyday for two weeks.The expression of SOCS-3 mRNA and PPAR-γ mRNA in the epididymis adipose tissue was detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.Results Compared with the normal group

the body weight and expression of SOCS-3 and PPAR-γ mRNA in the model group were up-re-gulated obviously(P<0.01).Compared with the model group

the body weight and expression of SOCS-3 and PPAR-γ mRNA were significantly decreased in the EA group

with the effects of EA-5 mA being better than those of EA-1 mA.Conclusion EA stimulation of ST 36-SP 6 can reduce body weight in rats with simple obesity

and the effect of higher intensity of EA is apparently better.Accordingly

EA intervention induces down-regulation of SOCS-3 and PPAR-γ mRNA expression in the epididymis adipose tissue.