Cell tight junctions are microscopic structures that help cells form a protective barrier in tissues such as the gut, skin, lungs, and blood–brain barrier.

細胞的緊密連結是存在於細胞之間的微細結構，幫助腸道、皮膚、肺部及血腦屏障等組織形成保護性屏障。

They seal the space between adjacent cells and prevent unwanted substances from leaking into the bloodstream or surrounding tissues.

它們封閉相鄰細胞之間的間隙，防止不需要的物質滲漏進入血液或周圍組織。

Healthy tight junctions are essential for maintaining tissue integrity and immune balance.

健康的緊密連結對於維持組織完整性與免疫平衡至關重要。

When tight junction function is weakened, barrier permeability may increase, a condition often referred to as “leaky barrier.”

當緊密連結功能受損時，屏障通透性可能上升，常被稱為「屏障滲漏」的狀態。

This increased permeability has been associated with chronic inflammation, digestive discomfort, skin sensitivity, and stress-related disorders.

這種通透性增加與慢性發炎、腸胃不適、皮膚敏感以及壓力相關失調有關。

Acupuncture does not directly create or replace tight junction proteins.

針灸並不會直接生成或取代緊密連結蛋白。

However, modern research suggests that acupuncture may indirectly support tight junction stability by regulating inflammation, immunity, and stress responses.

然而，現代研究顯示，針灸可能透過調節發炎、免疫與壓力反應，間接支持緊密連結的穩定性。

Chronic inflammation is one of the main factors that disrupt tight junction proteins such as claudins and occludin.

慢性發炎是破壞 claudin、occludin 等緊密連結蛋白的主要因素之一。

Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6.

研究顯示，針灸可降低 TNF-α、IL-6 等促發炎細胞激素。

By calming excessive inflammation, acupuncture may help preserve the structure and function of epithelial barriers.

透過緩和過度的發炎反應，針灸有助於維持上皮屏障的結構與功能。

Acupuncture has also been shown to influence the nervous and endocrine systems, particularly stress-related pathways.

針灸亦被證實可影響神經與內分泌系統，特別是與壓力相關的調節路徑。

Excessive stress hormones can weaken tight junction integrity, while stress regulation may support barrier stability.

過高的壓力荷爾蒙會削弱緊密連結的完整性，而壓力調節則有助於屏障穩定。

From an integrative healthcare perspective, acupuncture is used to support the body’s self-regulatory capacity rather than targeting a single structure in isolation.

從整合醫療的角度來看，針灸的目的在於支持身體的自我調節能力，而非單獨針對某一結構。

For individuals experiencing barrier-related imbalances linked to stress or chronic inflammation, acupuncture may be part of a comprehensive care plan.

對於因壓力或慢性發炎導致屏障功能失衡的人，針灸可作為整體照護計畫的一部分。

Tight junctions play a crucial role in protecting the body from unwanted leakage and inflammation.

緊密連結在防止滲漏與發炎方面扮演關鍵角色。

Acupuncture may help maintain barrier health indirectly by reducing inflammation and supporting nervous and immune system balance.

針灸可能透過降低發炎、支持神經與免疫平衡，間接維護屏障健康。

It is best viewed as a supportive therapy within an individualized, holistic care approach.

針灸最適合被視為個人化、整體調理中的一項支持性療法。