| 摘要 |
[Objectives] To observe the effects of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction on pain behaviors in rat models of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and analyze potential mechanisms. [Methods] Twenty SD rats with PHN models induced by intraplantar injection of 50 μL (6×106) varicella-zoster virus (VZV) into the left hind paw were randomly divided into two groups (n=10 each) using a random number table: the model group (PHN group) and the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group. From day 7 after inoculation, the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group received oral gavage of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction twice daily for 14 days, while the PHN group received an equal volume of 0.9% saline. Thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) and mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) were measured at 1, 4, 7, 14, and 21 d after inoculation. Pain-related behaviors (vocalization, scratching, and licking/biting of the hind paw) were recorded. [Results] Compared with the PHN group, the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group exhibited significantly prolonged TWL and increased MWT at days 14 and 21 (P<0.05). At day 4 post-inoculation, both groups showed marked pain-related behaviors (e.g., vocalization, scratching, licking/biting). These behaviors persisted until day 21 in the PHN group but significantly decreased in the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group at days 14 and 21 (P<0.05). [Conclusions] Huanglian Jiedu Decoction reduces pain sensitivity and alleviates pain-related behaviors in PHN model rats. The mechanism may involve elevating pain thresholds and decreasing pain conduction velocity. |
