An inspiration to the studies on mechanisms of acupuncture and moxibustion action derived from 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine

Abstract

The editorial board of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine recently convened an academic seminar with a focus on studies regarding the mechanisms mediating acupuncture efficacy and moxibustion action inspired by the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Specifically, Professor Bailong Xiao introduced the Nobel Prize for research on the mechanically activated Piezo ion channel, evaluating the structure of the Piezo channel and its physiological and pathological functions, and proposed a possible role for the Piezo channel in acupuncture mechanical stimulation. Professor Michael Xi Zhu introduced the discovery of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family, reporting that the therapeutic effects of Chinese medicine and acupuncture may be achieved via the TRP family, and that information regarding associations between the meridian and lymphatic systems may have important research and medical value. In addition, Professor Tianle Xu reviewed the history of ion channel research, particularly the physiological and pharmacological effects of non-classical ion channels (eg, the acid sensing ion channel family) and pointed out that the characterization and neural circuits of acupuncture deqi manipulation are important for elucidating the mechanisms of acupuncture actions. Professor Yongming Li similarly proposed that the 2021 Nobel Prize may open the door to disclosing the histological basis of acupuncture and moxibustion and analyzing the main scientific concerns regarding the clinical translation of acupuncture and moxibustion from basic to translational research. Finally, Professor Yi Guo summarized the study progress of the acupoint microenvironment induced by acupuncture over the course of nearly 30 years and put forward the hypothesis that acupuncture may initiate the physical-chemical coupling network by activating ion channel receptors in acupoints via physical and mechanical stimulation. Therefore, we conclude that a primary achievement of the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is in helping interpret how acupuncture and moxibustion adjust homeostasis (ie, by activating mechanical and thermal sensation), which is conducive to validating and promoting the clinical efficacy of acupuncture modalities.