The Effects of Electroacupuncture on Th1/Th2 Cytokine mRNA Expression and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathways in the Splenic T Cells of Traumatized Rats

Abstract

EA regulates a balance between Th1 and Th2 cytokines at protein and mRNA levels in splenic T cells, and, at least in part, involves the signaling pathways of ERK1/2, p38, NF-kappaB, and AP-1. The findings suggest that EA may improve immune suppression after surgical trauma.