[Effect of different intensities of electroacupuncture stimulation on expression of SOCS-3 and PPAR-gamma mRNA in adipose tissues of obesity rats].

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS-3) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma genes in the epididymis adipose tissue of obesity rats so as to explore its mechanism underlying weight reduction.

METHODS

SD rats were randomized into normal control, obesity model, EA-5 mA and EA-1 mA groups (10 rats/group). EA stimulation (6 Hz/20 Hz, 5 mA or 1 mA) was delivered to the bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36) and "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) for 15 min, once everyday for two weeks. The expression of SOCS-3 mRNA and PPAR-gamma mRNA in the epididymis adipose tissue was detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal group, the body weight and expression of SOCS-3 and PPAR-gamma mRNA in the model group were up-regulated obviously (P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the body weight and expression of SOCS-3 and PPAR-gamma mRNA were significantly decreased in the EA group, with the effects of EA-5 mA being better than those of EA-1 mA.

CONCLUSION

EA stimulation of ST 36-SP 6 can reduce body weight in rats with simple obesity, and the effect of higher intensity of EA is apparently better. Accordingly, EA intervention induces down-regulation of SOCS-3 and PPAR-gamma mRNA expression in the epididymis adipose tissue.