Effects and mechanisms of acupuncture on biliary system motility

Abstract

Since the introduction of acupuncture in the West, the primary focus of interest has been on its analgesic effects. In the 1990s, several research groups began to investigate the effects of acupuncture on biliary system motility. Here, we have reviewed all the recently published articles about the effects of acupuncture and acupuncture-like stimulation on sphincter of Oddi (SO) and gallbladder motility. Acupoints used for these studies were auricular liver–gall point, Yanglinquan (GB34), Qimen (LR14) and Riyue (GB24). Acupuncture and acupuncture-like stimulation at LR14, GB24, which are located in the trunk, showed an increased SO contraction. In contrast, acupuncture at GB34 in lower limb and TENS at the hand showed a decreased SO contraction. Also, auricular liver–gall point stimulation caused a marked contraction of the gallbladder. These results agree with Sato's report that gastric motility was inhibited by acupuncture applied to the abdomen and lower chest region, but was often excited when the limbs were stimulated. The results of two articles show that acupuncture stimulation decreased SO basal pressure and was accompanied by a significant increase in cholecystokinin (CCK) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide. Therefore, it was proposed that the effect of acupuncture on biliary system motility is that acupuncture first stimulates the autonomic or central nervous system, thereby controlling the release of the hormones that influence the SO and gall bladder. In conclusion, acupuncture stimulation of various acupoints results in inhibition or excitation of biliary system motility. The response of SO and gall bladder motility can be mediated by neurohormonal mechanisms, including CCK release.