To observe the behavioral effects of acupuncture at Quchi (LI 11) and Zusanli (ST 36) acupoints on MCAO rats and to evaluate the effects on Notch signaling pathway marker proteins. Methods:A total of 36 SD rats were randomly divided into blank group, model group and acupuncture group, with 12 rats in each group. The rats in the model group and the acupuncture group received the modified suture method to establish the model of left middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) reperfusion. The rats in the blank group were only subjected to vascular segmental surgery. The postoperative blank control group and model group rats were subjected to simulated catching once a day. Rats in acupuncture group were given acupuncture at Quchi and Zusanli points for continuous intervention for 14 days. Neurobehavioral scores were used to assess the ability of rats to exercise. TTC staining was used to observe changes of cerebral infarction volume. HE staining was used to observe morphology and structure of rat brain cells. The expression of Notch1 and Hes1 protein in brain tissue of each group was detected by Western blotting. Results:1) Compared with the model group, neurobehavioral score of acupuncture group was significantly increased and the volume of cerebral infarction was reduced; 2) Acupuncture significantly improved the morphology and structure of brain cells in MCAO rats; 3) Western blotting results showed that acupuncture significantly increased the protein levels of Notch1 and Hes1 in rat brain. Conclusion:Electroacupuncture at Quchi and Zusanli points can improve the behavioral abilities of MCAO rats, which may be related to the mechanism of Notch pathway.