Acupuncture point (Acupoint)

Acupoints, or acupuncture points, are specific anatomical locations on the body surface where the insertion of needles or the application of pressure is used to induce therapeutic physiological effects. Historically a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine, these sites are scientifically characterized by a high density of nerve endings, blood vessels, and mast cells, acting as physiological hubs rather than discrete molecular receptors or enzymes [6, 11, 14]. Stimulation of an acupoint triggers a complex cascade of events, including the degranulation of local mast cells and the release of signaling molecules like adenosine and endogenous opioids [4, 11]. These mediators activate peripheral sensory nerves and modulate the neuroendocrine-immune network, leading to systemic effects such as pain relief, reduced inflammation, and restoration of autonomic balance [1, 8, 13]. While they are critical targets for physical intervention in clinical acupuncture, acupoints represent a structural and functional site of physiological integration rather than a traditional molecular drug target [10, 15].

Other names

AcupointXueweiMeridian pointAcupuncture sitePressure point

Acupuncture stimulation at these points activates mechanoreceptors (e.g., TRPV1) and purinergic receptors (e.g., P2X3) on sensory nerve terminals, while also inducing local mast cell degranulation and the release of biochemical mediators like adenosine [3, 4, 11]. This mechanical stimulus is converted into neural signals that travel to the central nervous system, where they trigger the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate immune and autonomic functions [8, 13, 14].