Acupuncture point stimulation

Acupuncture point stimulation refers to the therapeutic practice of stimulating specific anatomical sites known as acupoints, commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Stimulation is usually achieved by inserting needles into defined points on the body surface, sometimes with manual or electrical manipulation. This practice is hypothesized to initiate cascade reactions in local connective tissue (mechanotransduction), activate afferent nerve fibers, and modulate systems via neuroendocrine-immune signaling, but the precise molecular identity of acupoints remains undefined. The effects may involve local mechanical signaling, mast cell activation (TRPV channels, histamine release), purinergic and adenosine pathways, and changes in metabolic and proteomic markers. The intervention is considered safe when performed properly, although methodological and mechanistic challenges persist in research. "Acupuncture point stimulation" should not be considered a classical drug target, receptor, or enzyme, as it is an anatomical and procedural concept rather than a molecule or therapeutic target.

Other names

AcupunctureAcupoint stimulationElectroacupunctureManual acupuncture

Mechanical stimulation of connective tissue and collagen fibers at acupoints; Activation of local mast cells, leading to degranulation and release of histamine, serotonin, and other mediators; Triggering neural impulses via activation of transient receptor potential channels (TRPV2, TRPV1) and purinergic signaling pathways; Initiation of systemic neuroendocrine-immune responses, including modulation of NK cell activity, release of peptide hormones, and anti-inflammatory actions.