Am J Chin Med. 1989 ; 17(3-4): 119-27.

Singular point, organizing center and acupuncture point.

Shang C.

Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138.

A hypothesis is proposed on the nature of acupuncture point and organizing center, the role of meridian system in growth regulation, and the mechanism of acupuncture. Both organizing centers and acupuncture points have low electric resistance. The low electric resistance is related to the distribution of gap junction and thus intercellular communication. Some acupuncture points may be organizing centers. The meridian system is important in coordination and regulation of morphogenesis. The properties of organizing centers and acupuncture points can be explained in view of singular point. Coupling and oscillation may underlie the mechanism of acupuncture as well as growth regulation.