Objective: To investigate the influence and mechanism of acupuncture at the points in Heel Vessel for the circadian clock genes of Period (Per) 1 and Per 2 mRNAs in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in insomnia rats.
Methods: Thirty male SD rats were randomly divided into blank, model, acupuncture groups, 10 rats in each group. Insomnia model was established by intraperitoneal injection of PCPA (suspension, 1 mL/100 g). Acupuncture at "Shenmai" (BL 62) and "Zhaohai" (KI 6) was used in the acupuncture group for continuous 7 days, 15 min/day and once daily. The circadian rhythm was observed; the expressions of Per 1 and Per 2 mRNAs in SCN were examined with real time-PCR.
Results: The activity in the model group in rest period everyday increased compared with that in the blank group, and the expressions of Per 1 and Per 2 mRNAs in SCN decreased (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the activity in the acupuncture group in rest period decreased and the expressions of Per 1 and Per 2 mRNAs in the SCN increased (P<0.05).
Conclusions: Acupuncture at BL 62 and KI 6 can increase the expressions of Per 1 and Per 2 mRNAs in the SCN, so as to decrease the activity in rest period, and improve the quality of sleep in insomnia rats.
Keywords: Acupuncture; Heel Vessel; Insomnia; Sleep-wake cycle.