Effects of Acupuncture on 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Mice

In this study, we investigated the characteristics of acupuncture treatment based on effectiveness and mechanism. BALB/c mice received 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) application to build AD like model. Results showed that acupuncture treatment was a effective method in inhibiting inflammatory conditions, serum IgE levels, and expression of proinflammatory cytokineTh2 (IL-4, IL-6), Th2 (IL-1β,TNF-α) mRNA compared with DNCB group. Acupuncture treatment also inhibited NF-κB p65, phosphorylation of IκBα, and phosphorylation of occludin proteins expression. In addition, acupuncture treatment could improve EGF expression both in mRNA and protein levels. These results suggest that acupuncture, as an alternative therapy treatment for its no significant side effects, was effective in alleviating allergic contact dermatitis by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and changing proteins expression.
Source: Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies - Category: Complementary Medicine Source Type: research