Research progress on the mechanism of acupuncture intervention for depression based on oxidative stress

Depression is a chronic and recurrent mental disorder characterized by high prevalence, prolonged episodes, high recurrence rate, and significant disability. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating this condition, and its underlying mechanisms are increasingly being investigated. The pathogenesis of depression is closely associated with oxidative stress. This review summarizes the mechanisms of acupuncture intervention in depression from the perspective of oxidative stress, including the regulation of oxidative stress-related signaling pathways, inhibition of ferroptosis, modulation of the oxidative stress-Calpain-inflammatory signal axis, reduction of cyclic guanosine monophosphate content, and attenuation of mitochondrial apoptosis. These actions collectively contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress products, enhancement of antioxidant capacity, and improvement of oxidative damage and depressive symptoms.