Effects of electroacupuncture on capsaicin-induced model of atopic dermatitis in rats

BackgroundElectroacupuncture (EA) is used as a prescription to treat pruritus and atopic dermatitis. Whether EA affects experimental itch in rat models of immunologic or neuronal damages, however, is unknown.ObjectivesThe present study was designed to determine the therapeutic effects of high-frequency EA on atopic dermatitis-like lesions in rats.Materials and methodsCapsaicin (50 mg/kg) was subcutaneously administered rat pups within 48 h after birth. Rats then underwent 30 min of EA at six acupoints (bilateral BL13, and unilateral LI11, ST36, SP10, SP6) every other day (EA group) for 3 weeks. Measurements of IgE, mast cells, scratching behavior, dynorphin release, skin thickness and dermatitis score were obtained.ResultsOnly the dermatitis score and dynorphin expression were decreased in the EA group compared with the control non-EA group.ConclusionWe suggest that high-frequency EA alleviates pruritus of atopic dermatitis-like lesions in rats induced by capsaicin injection, via the release of dynorphin. These findings indicate a new potential therapeutic approach for the amelioration of symptoms of atopic dermatitis.