Abstract: Objective To explore the effects of electroacupuncture at Baihui (DU20) acupoint on learning and memory and its possible mechanism through the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in APP/PS1 double-transgenic mice. Methods 30 female APP/PS1 double transgenic mice were randomly divided into model group, DU20 group and non-acupoint group, and 10 wild type mice consisted of wild group. DU20 group received electroacupuncture at Baihui and the non-acupoint group received electroacupuncture at non-acupoint for 28 days. Learning and memory was tested by Morris water maze. Deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide was determined by immunohistochemical staining. The expression of BDNF in cortex was examined by RT-PCR and Western blotting. Results Compared with the model group, DU20 group ameliorated the learning and memory ability of APP/PS1 double-transgenic mice (P<0.05), decreased the deposition of Aβ peptide (P<0.05) and upregulated the gene and protein levels of BDNF (P<0.01). There was no significant difference between the model group and non-acupoint group (P>0.05). Conclusion Electroacupuncture at DU20 acupoint could ameliorate learning and memory in APP/PS1 double-transgenic mice. The mechanism may be related to increase the expression of BDNF and decrease the deposition of Aβ.

Key words: electroacupuncture, Baihui (DU20), APP/PS1, learning and memory, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, mouse