Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 1996 ; 21(3): 22-6.

[Expression of somatostatin mRNA and coexistence of SOM mRNA and 5-HT in nucleus raphe dorsalis following noxious stimulation and electroacupuncture analgesia]

Fang Z.

Anatomy Department, Henan Medical University, Zhengzhou.

Using the methods of in situ hybridization (ISHH), ISHH combined with immunocytochemistry ABC and image processing, somatostatin (SOM) mRNA level and coexistence of SOM mRNA and 5-HT in the nucleus raphe dorsalis (RD) of rat were studied in the normal group, noxious stimulation group, simple electroacupuncture group and electroacupuncture analgesia group (EA). A number of oval and fusiform cells with a weak to moderate hybridization signals were mostly distributed in dorsomedial subnucleus of RD and concentrated on rostral part. An increase of SOM mRNA positive cells could be seen in noxious stimulation group and simple electroacupuncture group comparing with the normal group. In EA group the number of SOM mRNA positive cells increased more than any other groups. A few SOM mRNA and 5-HT doubled cells could be seen in RD in the normal group. Most of the doubled cells were distributed in ventromedial, lateral subnuclei of RD. Comparing with the normal group, doubled cells increased in noxious and simple electroacupuncture group and increased significantly in EA group. The results suggest: (1) SOM takes part in modulation of pain. (2) SOM plays a role in EA. (3) Coexistence of SOM mRNA and 5-HT-in RD suggests that SOM and 5 HT interact synergically in EA.