CHRNA3 and colitis: However, the neurobiological mechanisms that prime acupoints for enhanced responsiveness remain poorly understood.<h4>Methods</h4>Using a rat model of TNBS intracolonic injection-induced colitis and relative acupoint sensitization, we investigated the role of CHRNA3+ mechanoinsensitive nociceptors (MINs), a subclass of silent C-fiber neurons, in modulating the acupoint sensory interface and electroacupuncture (EA) responsiveness.