Acupoints [corrected] and meridians: a histochemical study

METHODS: samples of 356 specimens (287 from 48 adult and 2 newborn cadavers and the remaining 69 from living patients) were taken at three different levels: (1) beneath acupoints; (2) between meridians; (3) at a distance from meridians. Seven different stainings were performed to show the distribution of collagen fibers, reticular fibers, mucopolysaccharides (MPS), connective tissue, nerve threads, and blood vessels in specimens obtained from different areas. RESULTS: Some structural and biochemical discrepancies associated with acupoints and meridians included: (1) collagen fibers; (2) nerve endings.