Effects of Electroacupuncture on p-Chlorophenylalanine-Induced Insomnia Mice

Abstract Background Insomnia significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals and can lead to a variety of health issues. While conventional Western medications are commonly used to address insomnia, their side effects and potential risks should not be overlooked. Electroacupuncture therapy has been shown to be a safer and more effective alternative to traditional medications for treating insomnia in clinical settings. Objective This study aimed to explore the effect of electroacupuncture stimulating PC6 and PC8 on improving insomnia symptoms in mice. Methods In the p -chlorophenylalanine (PCPA)-induced insomnia model in mice, zopiclone was administered via gavage in the positive drug group. The electroacupuncture group targeted the PC6 and PC8 for therapeutic intervention. The efficacy of electroacupuncture therapy on mouse insomnia was assessed through behavioral observations, sodium pentobarbital-induced sleep tests, and neurotransmitter assays. Furthermore, histopathological changes in hippocampal tissue were examined using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Results Experimental results showed that electroacupuncture treatment has a good sedative effect in mouse behavioral experiments. In the pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep experiment, electroacupuncture treatment Significantly improved sleep in Insomnia mice. Neurotransmitter measurements showed that electroacupuncture treatment increased 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and decreased dopamine (DA) levels. Conclusion Electroacupuncture treatment at PC6 and PC8 can improve insomnia symptoms in mice by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain. Graphical abstract