Abstract
This study was undertaken to determine effect of Zusan1i(ST36) acupuncture (AP) on the small intestinal motility in the rabbit. Changes in the motility in vivo of ileum was measured before and 20 min. after AP. In order to examine whether AP effect was affected by autonomic nerves, norepinephrine or acetylcholine was applicated. AP significantly increased the mean wave amplitude and motor index, but not the mean wave duration and motor activity. Infusion of norepinephrine ($2{\mu}m$) into an ear vein resulted in a decrease in the mean wave amplitude and motor index, which was not affected by AP. Acetylcholine ($10{\mu}m$) produced inhibition followed by stimulation of motility. The stimulation of motility was induced by an increase in the mean wave amplitude and motor index, but not the mean wave duration and motor activity. The effect of acetylcholine was not significantly different between before and after AP. These results suggest that Zusan1i(ST36) acupuncture stimulates the small intestinal motility, which is not mediated by autonomic nerves. Therefore, Zusan1i(ST36) acupuncture seems to be applicable to impaired small intestinal movement.
