Electroacupuncture effect the neuromuscular functionality in rats with intensive care unit-acquired weakness

Abstract

Abstract ICU-Acquired Weakness (ICU-AW) is a multifaceted condition capable of impeding the recuperation of critically ill patients afflicted with sepsis. Acupuncture therapy has demonstrated notable effectiveness across a spectrum of ailments, particularly in the initial stages of rehabilitating critically ill patients. This study aims to assess the potential of electro-acupuncture stimulation in enhancing muscular functionality within a rat model of ICU-AW, with implications for ICU-AW treatment. We created a rat model of acquired weakness induced by septic shock using intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a dose of 5 mg/kg, in conjunction with immobilization. This investigation monitored alterations in rat motor function, body weight, the levels of inflammatory markers including IL-6, TNF-α, SIRT3, and CAF in rat serum, and their fluctuations preceding and following the onset of ICU-AW. Additionally, we assessed muscle tissue ATP levels to appraise mitochondrial functionality in ICU-AW rats and analyzed the expression of proteins related to signaling pathways and autophagy within muscle tissue. Our study implies that electro-acupuncture stimulation can activate the AMPK-PGC1α-SIRT3 signaling pathway, ensuring consistent autophagy and calpain levels, consequently ameliorating both inflammation and muscular function in ICU-AW rats.