Electroacupuncture via chronically implanted electrodes improves gastric dysmotility mediated by autonomic‐cholinergic mechanisms in a rodent model of functional dyspepsia

Abstract Background Electroacupuncture ( EA ) has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms in patients with functional dyspepsia ( FD ). However, its mechanisms remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate mechanisms of the prokinetic effects of EA in a rodent model of FD . Methods A FD model was established by neonatal treatment of iodoacetamide ( IA ). Eight weeks later, the rats were implanted with electrodes in the stomach for the measurement of gastric slow waves ( GSW ) and electrodes into acupoints ST 36 for EA . Autonomic functions were assessed by the spectral analysis of heart rate variability. Key Results (i) The IA ‐treated rats (“ FD ” rats) showed increased dysrhythmia in both fasting and fed states ( P < .01) as well as during rectal distention ( P < .02). EA reduced the percentage of dysrhythmia ( P < .05 for both fasting and fed) and normalized RD ‐induced impairment in GSW in “ FD ” rats. Atropine blocked the effect of EA on GSW . (ii) “ FD ” rats showed delayed gastric emptying ( P = .001 vs control) that was accelerated with EA ( P = .01, vs sham‐ EA ). (iii) “ FD ” rats showed increased plasma norepinephrine ( P = .006, vs control) that was suppressed with EA ( P = .003) and reduced vagal activity that was improved with EA . Conclusions and Inferences Gastric motility ( GSW and GE ) is impaired in rats treated with IA , possibly attributed to impaired autonomic functions. EA improves GSW and accelerates GE mediated via the autonomic and cholinergic mechanisms.