Acupuncture-Induced Changes in Locus Coeruleus Connectivity and Memory Improvement in Patients with Amnestic Cognitive Impairment

Motivation: Early intervention in cases of mild cognitive impairment is associated with improved prognostic outcomes, underscoring the urgent need for the identification of effective therapeutic strategies and the exploration of their underlying mechanisms. Goal(s): To assess the efficacy of acupuncture therapy and investigate the underlying mechanisms contributing to its effectiveness. Approach: This study employs seed-based resting-state functional connectivity to investigate the modulatory effects of acupuncture on the function of the locus coeruleus. Results: The observed cognitive improvements in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment may be attributed to the modulation of locus coeruleus activity by acupuncture. Impact: Acupuncture could enhance cognitive function and immediate recall in individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Resting-state functional MRI studies indicate that verum acupuncture modulated functional connectivity between the left locus coeruleus and the inferior parietal lobule and cerebellum.