This paper introduces a new technique combining microdialysis with patch clamp to detect the changes in ATP (adenosine triphosphate) concentration in acupoints during acupuncture. The microdialysis probe was implanted into the Zusanli acupoint (ST 36) of adult SD (Sprague Dawley) rats to sample acupoint fluid containing ATP released during acupuncture. Then, the fluid with ATP was delivered in real time to 293 T cells overexpressing P2X3 receptors, with which we could carry out patch clamp experiments. The results showed that changes in membrane currents could reflect changes in the concentration of ATP. Thus, we can successfully detect ATP released in acupoints during acupuncture in real time. This technique provides us with a new way to study the mechanism of acupuncture signal initiation.

中文翻译：

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针刺过程中穴位ATP浓度的实时分析：微透析与膜片钳结合的新技术

本文介绍了一种结合微透析和膜片钳的新技术，以检测针刺过程中穴位中ATP（三磷酸腺苷）浓度的变化。将微透析探针植入成年SD（Sprague Dawley）大鼠的Zusanli穴位（ST 36），以采样包含针刺过程中释放的ATP的穴位液。然后，将带有ATP的液体实时输送到过表达P2X3受体的293 T细胞中，以此进行膜片钳实验。结果表明，膜电流的变化可以反映ATP浓度的变化。因此，我们可以实时成功地检测针灸过程中穴位释放的ATP。这项技术为我们提供了一种新的方法来研究针刺信号的启动机制。