Effects of electroacupuncture Zusanli (ST36) on food intake and expression of POMC and TRPV1 through afferents-medulla pathway in obese prone rats

► Food intake and body weight were reduced by acupuncture ST36 in obese prone rats. ► Acupuncture ST36 increased POMC mRNA level in NTS and hypoglossal nucleus regions. ► TRPV1 and nNOS mRNAs were increased by acupuncture ST36 in the NTS/GN regions. ► Acupuncture ST36 increased TRPV1 and nNOS mRNAs in the skin acupoints.