Acupuncture point locations for experimental animal studies in rats and mice

Abstract

Objectives : The aim of the study is to draw a consensus in acupuncture point locations (APLs) which are frequently used in experimental animal studies. Well-documented APL is needed not only for human but also for rodents because stimulation of precise point is very important factor in acupuncture. Methods : We organized a committee with experts to reach a consensus on the APLs in rat. The subject points were limited to 22 points used in the papers published at international peer-review journals. To describe point locations, we adopted the syntax of sentence used in the WHO standard acupuncture point locations. Results : Locations of 22 acupuncture points such as ST36, LI4, PC6, and SP6 were described in English with photographic illustrations. Interestingly, we found that ST36 had been inserted into 2 different locations in rodent. Under consideration of practical use, the location of ST36 point was described in 2 different ways. Conclusion : We hope that newly developed APLs would be a good indicator of acupuncture experiments in rats and mice.