Depertment of Physiology, Meiji University of Oriental Medicine,
Hiyoshi-tyo, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-0392 JAPAN
phone: ＋81-771-72-1181 x275 Fax: ＋81-771-72-0326
The polymodal receptor (PMR) is responsive to mechanical, thermal and chemical stimuli and is activated by both acupuncture and moxibustion. Selective activation of PMRs induces analgesia and modulates various regulatory systems. Antidromic excitation of the PMR induces flare, extravasation and other phenomena which are also provoked by acupuncture and moxibustion. Close relationships between "tender points" and acupuncture loci have been well demonstrated and are believed to be the sites where PMRs are sensitised. Based on these and other facts, the "Polymodal Receptor Hypothesis" is proposed as a reasonable explanation for the principal mechanisms in acupuncture and moxibustion.K. Kawakita, Polymodal receptor hypothesis on the peripheral mechanisms of acupuncture and moxibustion, American Journal of Acupuncture (1993) 21, 331-338
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