2008•Zhongguo bijiao yixue zazhiRequires access
Effect of Electroacupuncture(EA) on the Learning and Memory Ability in Diabetic Rats with Cognitive Impairment and the Expression of Neurotrophin-3(NT-3) in Hippocampus
Chu Yu-rong
Open publisher page 2 citations
Abstract
Objective To observe the improvement of learning and memory ability and the expression of neurotrophin-3(NT-3) mRNA in the hippocampus induced by electroacupuncture in diabetic rats with cognitive impairment.Methods The diabetic rats were generated by injecting 2% streptozotocin(STZ).The rats were randomly divided into three groups: electro-acupuncture group(EA),diabetes mellitus-untreated group(DM),and the normal control group(CN).After 4 weeks,blood sugar levels in diabetic rats were determined and the influence on learning and memory was observed with the using of Morris water maze.At the same time the expression of NT-3 mRNA in the hippocampus and the positively expressing cells were detected by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.Results Blood sugar levels and the latency period going up onto the platform in rats in DM group were higher than those in rats of EA and in CN groups(P0.01).However,the expression of NT-3 mRNA in the hippocampus and the positively expressing cells in DM group were lower than those in rats of EA and CN groups(P0.01).Conclusion The blood glucose level in diabetic rats can be decreased by electroacupuncture.The expression of NT-3 mRNA in the hippocampus and the positively expressing cells in diabetic rats can be increased.Thus,learning and memory abilities in diabetic rats with cognitive impairment can be improved.