Molecular and Functional Neuroscience in Immunity

Molecular and Functional Neuroscience in Immunity
Valentin A. Pavlov, Sangeeta S. Chavan, and Kevin J. Tracey
Center for Biomedical Science and Center for Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, New York 11030, USA

Stimulation of somatosensory signaling to the CNS by acupuncture activates a brain muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) mechanism that is linked with efferent vagus nerve activity and catecholaminergic regulation that suppresses serum TNF, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels in murine endotoxemia (124). Activation of the sciatic nerve by electroacupuncture via unknown mechanisms triggers stimulation of efferent vagus nerve signaling to the adrenal medulla that results in increased dopamine release (125). This is associated with anti-inflammatory effects mediated through D1 receptors and improved survival in mice with sepsis (125).

We have looked at Tracey’s work before, and also the effect of electroacupuncture on sepsis in animals.