This study was undertaken to determine the effect of Zusanli(ST_(36)) acupuncture (AP) on the large intestinal motility in the rabbit. Changes in the motility in uivo of colon was measured before and 20 min after AP. In order to examine whether AP effect was affected by autonomic nerves, norepinephrine or acetylcholine was applied. AP significantly increased the mean wave amplitude and motor index, but not the mean wave duration and motor activitiy. Infusion of norepinephrine (2μg) into an ear vein resulted in a decrease in the the mean wave amplitude and motor index, which was not affected by AP. Acetylcholine (10μg) caused stimulation of motility which was acompanied by an increase in the mean wave amplitude and motor index, but not the mean wave duration and motor activitiy. Effects of acetylcholine on the mean wave amplitude and motor index were inhibited by AP, although statistically nonsignificant.
These results suggest that Zusanli acupuncture stimulates the large intestinal motility, which may be, at least in part, mediated by parasympathetic nerve. Therefore, Zusanli acupuncture seems to be applicable to impaired large intestinal movement.
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