Study on the Role of Acupuncture in the Repair of Neural Circuits

Abstract

Ever-increasing numbers of researchers have targeted brain plasticity through the modulation of neural networks using diverse stimuli and interventions applied to the human body. Studies on resting-state functional connectivity and brain networks are in agreement with those using graph theoretical analyses in various natural, social, and cultural studies. However, such hodological studies have rarely been carried out to study acupuncture, which is one of the most important alternative medicines. We hypothesize that a graph theoretical approach will have theoretical implications allowing the interpretation of the very mechanisms by which acupuncture may promote brain plasticity. The network analysis is wellsuited to exploring how several brain regions come into play by this treatment, beyond differentiating only the centers that are selectively involved in therapeutic effects. Although the therapeutic value and neural effects of acupuncture are still under investigation, our study may shed light on the neural underpinnings of the effects of acupuncture on the act of swallowing.