Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of electronically stimulating Tianshu(ST 25) and Dachangshu(BL 25), Quchi(LI 11) and Shangjuxu(ST 37) on the jejunum c-kit protein and c-kit m RNA in rats with functional diarrhea(FD).METHODS: FD models were established through intragastric administration with folium sennae. Experimental rats were then divided into 4 groups:blank group, model group, electroacupuncture group Ⅰ [Tianshu(ST 25) and Dachangshu(BL 25)of both sides] and electroacupuncture group Ⅱ [Quchi(Li 11) and Shangjuxu(ST 37) ofboth sides], 10 in each. After treatment with electroacupuncture for 10 days, The expressions of jejunum c-kit protein and c-kit m RNA in each group were detected with Western blot and Real-Time quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(PCR).RESULTS: The expressions of c-kit protein and c-kit m RNA in the model group increased significantly compared to those in the blank group(P < 0.01);the expressions in electroacupuncture group Ⅰsignificantly decreased compared to those in the model group(P < 0.01).CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that electronically stimulating both Tianshu(ST 25) and Dachangshu(BL 25) significantly increased the expressions of jejunum c-kit protein and c-kit m RNA in FD rats, which means the treatment might have better therapeutic effects on FD.

Key words: Diarrhea, Interstitial cells of Cajal, Proto-oncogene proteins c-kit, Electroacupuncture