Electroacupuncture inhibits oxidative stress and improves cognitive function by downregulating the Ang II/AT1R/NOX axis in chronic cerebral ischemia rats

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the effects of Electroacupuncture (EA) on chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI). Methods: A CCI rat model was established by blocking the common carotid arteries. Model rats were treated with EA at the “Baihui” (GV20) and “Dazhui” (GV14) acupoints and/or ARB. Ang II and AT1R expression in the artery and hippocampal tissues was determined. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to detect RECA-1 expression in hippocampal tissues. NOX2, NOX4, SOD1, SOD2, ROS, and MDA levels were examined. Morris water maze and TUNEL staining were used to explore the effects of EA on cognitive impairment and apoptosis, respectively. Results: Ang II and AT1R levels were reduced by EA in CCI rats. RECA-1 expression was reduced in model rats, while EA and ARB increased its expression. EA inhibited oxidative stress in CCI rats. Besides, EA improved cognitive impairment in CCI rats. Apoptosis in the hippocampal tissues of CCI rats was inhibited by EA treatment. Furthermore, inhibition of Ang II/AT1R/NOX axis promoted the therapeutic effects of EA on oxidative stress and cognitive impairment in model rats. Conclusions: EA treatment at the “Baihui” (GV20) and “Dazhui” (GV14) acupoints is effective against CCI-induced cognitive impairment and oxidative stress by downregulating Ang II/AT1R/NOX axis.