Skin-Brain Axis: neural pathways in acupuncture treatment

Abstract The “Skin-Brain Axis” hypothesis posits that the skin contains a dense network of nerve endings, neurotransmitters, and neuropeptide receptors capable of detecting tissue damage with high precision and relaying signals to the brain through sensory neurons. Research indicates that therapies involving body surface stimulation, such as acupuncture, modulate brain function. However, there is a paucity of reviews detailing the mechanisms or pathways underlying these therapeutic interventions. This review digs into the neurobiological substrates of acupuncture’s efficacy, focusing on three pivotal components: the activation of skin at acupoints, the conduction of peripheral nerve signals, and the subsequent central nervous system responses. Graphical Abstract