Effect of acupuncture on memory function in old rats

Abstract

Objectives: We investigated the effect of acupuncture on memory function in relation with neurogenesis in old rats. Methods: In this study, a step-down avoidance task for short-term memory and Y-maze task for spatial memory capability were conducted. Western blot analysis for brain-derived neurotorphic factor (BDNF) and tyrosine kinase B (TrkB), and immunohistochemistry for 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine (BrdU) were performed. Results: Short-term memory and spatial memories were decreased in the old-aged rats. Expressions of BDNF and TrkB in the hippocampus were significantly decreased in the old-aged rats. Neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus was also decreased in the old-aged rats. However, acupuncture treatment alleviated impairment of short-term and spatial memories induced by ageing. Acupuncture also increased the expressions of BDNF and TrkB and enhanced neurogenesis in the hippocampus. The present study showed that acupuncture alleviated ageing-induced short-term and spatial memory loss by increasing of BDNF and neurogenesis. Acupuncture at ST41-acupoint showed most potent effect than at ST36-acupoint or non-acupoint. Conclusions: Acupuncture might be used as the effective therapeutic modality to ameliorate the age-related decrease of brain functions.