The effect of electroacupuncture on macrophage polarization in rats with primary dysmenorrhea based on the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Key Points

• This research investigates the impact of electroacupuncture on macrophage polarization and pain relief in a rat model of primary dysmenorrhea.
• Sixty SD rats divided into five groups: control, model, sham electroacupuncture, electroacupuncture, and Western medicine.
• A primary dysmenorrhea model was established using estradiol benzoate and oxytocin.
• Electroacupuncture was applied bilaterally at the 'Sanyinjiao' acupoint for five consecutive days.
• Serum levels of inflammation markers were measured using ELISA.
• Immunofluorescence and Western blot techniques evaluated macrophage markers and the AMPK/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
• The model group displayed increased body twisting response and severe uterine pathology compared to control.
• Serum levels of inflammatory markers like PGF2α, TNF-α, and IL-6 were elevated in the model group.
• Electroacupuncture and Western medicine groups significantly reduced pain and improved uterine pathology compared to the model group.
• Both treatments normalized the expression of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers.