Adenosine A2A Receptor Mediates Inhibition of Synovitis and Osteoclastogenesis after Electroacupuncture in Rats with Collagen-Induced Arthritis

Figure 4

The levels of PKA, ERK1/2, and NF-κB in ankle joints. PKA, ERK1/2, and NF-κB protein content in local ankle joints in the CIA-control group increased compared to the sham-control group. When the rats received EA treatment, the levels of PKA and ERK1/2 increased further compared to the CIA-control group, which is the opposite of the effect observed in serum. The levels of PKA and ERK1/2 decreased significantly compared to the CIA-EA group when the A2AR antagonist was administered simultaneously with the EA treatment. In contrast to PKA and ERK1/2, the local concentration of NF-κB was similar to that in serum. Data were expressed as mean ± SD and were compared using one-way ANOVA and Dunnett’s T3 multiple comparison post hoc test. indicates P<0.01 versus the sham-control group. △indicates P<0.05 versus the CIA-control group. # indicates P<0.05 versus the CIA-EA group.

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