The impact of electroacupuncture on anxiety-like behavior and gut microbiome in a mouse model of chronic restraint stress

IntroductionElectroacupuncture (EA) is a beneficial physiotherapy approach for addressing neuropsychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, the impact of EA on the gut microbiome in relation to anxiety disorders remains poorly understood.MethodsTo address this gap, we conducted a study using a chronic restraint stress (CRS) mouse model to investigate the anti-anxiety outcome of EA and its influence on gut microbiota. Our research involved behavioral tests and comprehensive sequencing of full-length 16S rRNA microbiomes.ResultsOur findings revealed that CRS led to significant anxiety-like behaviors and an imbalance in the gut microbiota. Specifically, we identified 13 species that exhibited changes associated with anxiety-like behaviors. Furthermore, EA partially alleviated both behaviors related to anxiety and the dysbiosis induced by CRS.DiscussionIn summary, this study sheds light on the alterations in gut microbiota species resulting from CRS treatment and brings new light into the connection between EA’s anti-anxiety effects and the gut microbiota.