Jobelyn^(■), a Sorghum-Based Nutritional Supplement Attenuates Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress-Induced Memory Deficits in Mice

The ability of an organism to adapt to aversive stressful situations or life challenging circumstances is very crucial to its state of health and survival. However, breakdown in adaptation due to persistent uncontrollable stress, leads to impairment of bodily functions and onset of a variety of pathological disorders especially memory decline. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of Jobelyn&reg;(JB), a potent antioxidant sorghum-based food supplement on unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS)-induced memory impairment in mice. Male Swiss mice were given JB (5 - 50 mg/kg, p.o) 30 min prior to exposure to UCMS for 14 consecutive days before testing for memory. Thereafter, the serum corticosterone level was estimated by using ELISA kits. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) as well as acetylcholinesterase activity were estimated in the brain homogenate using spectrophotometer. Histology of the brain tissues and estimation of the populations of viable neurons in the hippocampal region were done after staining with hematoxyline and eosin. Our results showed that JB reversed memory impairment and suppressed corticosterone concentrations induced by UCMS. Moreover, JB reduced oxidative stress in the brain of UCMS-mice as shown by decreased MDA levels and elevated GSH concentrations. It also decreased brain acetylcholinesterase activity when compared with chronic stress group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, JB (5 - 10 mg/kg, p.o) offered significant protection against UCMS-induced degeneration and death of neuronal cells of the cornu ammonis 3 (CA3) of the hippocampal region of the brain indicating neuroprotection. Taken together, these findings suggest that JB attenuates memory deficits induced by UCMS in mice and may be useful therapeutically for stress-related cognitive dysfunctions. The reduction in the levels of serum corticosterone, antioxidation, neuroprotection and inhibition of cholinesterase enzyme might be contributing significantly to the positive effect of JB on memory in mice exposed to unpredictable chronic mild stress.

Antidepressant effects of Yuanzhi (Polygalae Radix) extract on chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression in rats: modulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB pathway

Objective To investigate the antidepressant effects of Yuanzhi(Polygalae Radix;PR)aqueous extract on chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS)-induced depression rat models and the underlying mechanisms.Methods A total of 40 male Sprague Dawley(SD)rats were randomly divided into control;model;low dose of PR(PR-L;0.5 g/kg);high dose of PR(PR-H;1 g/kg);and fluoxetine(10 mg/kg)groups;with 8 rats in each group.Except for the rats in control group;those in the other four groups underwent CUMS-induced depression modeling.PR and fluoxetine were administered intragastrically once daily;30 min prior to the CUMS procedure;for 14 consecu-tive days until the behavioral tests were performed.After CUMS modeling;the sucrose prefer-ence test(SPT);open field test(OFT);novelty-suppressed feeding test(NSFT);forced swim test(FST);and tail suspension test(TST)were employed to assess the pharmacological ef-fects of PR on the mitigation of depressive-like behaviors in rat models.Additionally;the en-zyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was utilized to quantify the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α;interleukin(IL)-6;and IL-1βin the rats.Western blot analysis was al-so conducted to evaluate the protein expression levels of nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB);in-ducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS);cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2);nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3);apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing caspase recruitment domain(ASC);and caspase-1 in the hippocampal tissues of the rats.Immunofluorescence staining was per-formed to observe the morphological changes in ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 positive(Iba-1+)cells in the dentate gyrus(DG)of rats with CUMS-induced depression.Results(i)Treatment with PR-H and fluoxetine resulted in significant enhancements in both the total distance and time the rats moved during tests(P<0.01 and P<0.05;respectively).Post-administration of PR-H and fluoxetine also led to statistically significant increase in su-crose preference among rats(P<0.05).Besides;PR-L;PR-H;and fluoxetine treatment markedly decreased the latency of ingestion(P<0.05;P<0.05;and P<0.01;respectively).As observed from the FST;PR-L;PR-H;and fluoxetine presented antidepressant effects on rats with CUMS-induced depression;leading to the reduction in time of their immobility(P<0.05;P<0.01;and P<0.01;respectively).The results of TST indicated reduced immobility time in rats receiving PR-H and fluoxetine treatment as well(P<0.01).(ii)Rats in model group showed an increase in the levels of Iba-1+microglia in their left and right brains in compari-son with control group(P<0.01).However;such increase was negated post PR treatment(P<0.01).Treatment with PR-L;PR-H;and fluoxetine considerably reduced the levels of inflam-matory factors(TNF-α;IL-1β;and IL-6;P<0.01).In addition;treatment of PR-L and PR-H ef-fectively counteracted the elevated levels of NLRP3;ASC;and caspase-1;and markedly down-regulated the expression levels of phosphorylated p65(p-p65);COX-2;and iNOS in rats’hip-pocampus(P<0.01).Conclusion Collectively;these findings indicate that PR exerts an antidepressant effect on rats with CUMS-induced depression partially through the modulation of the NLRP3 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Shuganheweitang Ameliorates Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Depression-Like Behaviors in Rats through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway: Involvement of Amino Acids, Glycerophospholipids, and Energy Metabolism

Background: Depression is a typical psychosomatic disease. Shuganheweitang (SGHWT) is a clinical formula that effectively treats depression. However, the potential mechanism used by SGHWT to ameliorate depression-like behaviors is still unclear. This study investigated the effects of SGHWT on metabolic change in the liver and hypothalamus with signaling pathways involved in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression in rats to explore the mechanism of the anti-depressive effect. Methods: A total of 52 rats were used to create a model of depression by CUMS combined with solitary rearing for 6 weeks. Open field test (OFT), sucrose preference test (SPT), forced swim test (FST), and body weight (BW) were performed to analyze the pharmacodynamic effects of SGHWT. H&E staining, Nissl staining, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and western blot were used to evaluate the mechanism of action. Untargeted metabolomics techniques by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quantitative time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) were used to analyze all the metabolic differences in the liver and hypothalamus. Results: SGHWT improved CUMS-induced depression-like behaviors in vivo. SGHWT reduced hepatic c-Fos protein expression and increased hypothalamic c-Fos protein expression. Moreover, p-PI3K, p-AKT473, p-AKT308, and p-mTOR protein expressions were significantly downregulated in the liver and hypothalamus of CUMS rats. Notably, these alterations were reversed by the SGHWT administration. Furthermore, the metabolomic analysis identified 15 and 5 key differential SPT-associated metabolites in the liver and hypothalamus, respectively. Conclusion: This study suggests that SGHWT ameliorates chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression-like behaviors, by the involvement of amino acids, glycerophospholipids, energy metabolism, and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Highlights: 1) Shuganheweitang was derived from the TCM herbal formula Sinisan. 2) SGHWT treatment reverses depression-like behaviors in CUMS-induced rats. 3) The mechanism of SGHWT on depression by the liver and hypothalamus metabolomics. 4) SGHWT regulates amino acids, glycerophospholipids, and energy metabolism. 5) SGHWT exerts antidepressant effects through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Octreotide ameliorates gastric lesions in chronically mild stressed rats

AIM:To evaluate the effect of chronic mild stress(CMS) on the emergence of gastric ulcers and possible modulation by octreotide,a synthetic somatostatin analogue. METHODS:Adult male Wistar rats were subjected to nine different unpredictable random stress procedures for 21 d,a multifactorial interactional animal model for CMS.Octreotide was administered daily for 21 d at two dose levels(50 and 90μg/kg)before exposure to stress procedure.Macro-and microscopical assessments were made,in addition to quantification of plasma corticosterone and gastric mucosal inflammatory,oxidative stress, and apoptotic biomarkers. RESULTS:Exposure to CMS elevated plasma corticosterone(28.3±0.6μg/dL,P=0.002),an event that was accompanied by gastric lesions(6.4±0.16 mm,P=0.01) and confirmed histopathologically.Moreover,the insult elevated gastric mucosal lipid peroxides(13±0.5 nmol/g tissue,P=0.001),tumor necrosis factor-α(3008.6±78.18 pg/g tissue,P<0.001),prostaglandin E2(117.1 ±4.31 pg/g tissue,P=0.002),and caspase-3 activity (2.4±0.14 OD/mg protein,P=0.002).Conversely,CMS mitigated interleukin-10(627.9±12.82 pg/g tissue,P= 0.001).Furthermore,in animals exposed to CMS,octreotide restored plasma corticosterone(61%and 71%from CMS,P=0.002)at both dose levels.These beneficial effects were associated with a remarkable suppression of gastric lesions(38%and 9%from CMS,P=0.01)and reversal of derangements in gastric mucosa. CONCLUSION:The current investigation provides evidence that exposure to CMS induces gastric ulceration, which was alleviated by administration of octreotide possibly possessing antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-apoptotic actions.

Brain region-specific roles of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in social stress-induced depressive-like behavior

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a key factor in stress adaptation and avoidance of a social stress behavioral response.Recent studies have shown that brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in stressed mice is brain region–specific,particularly involving the corticolimbic system,including the ventral tegmental area,nucleus accumbens,prefrontal cortex,amygdala,and hippocampus.Determining how brain-derived neurotrophic factor participates in stress processing in different brain regions will deepen our understanding of social stress psychopathology.In this review,we discuss the expression and regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in stress-sensitive brain regions closely related to the pathophysiology of depression.We focused on associated molecular pathways and neural circuits,with special attention to the brain-derived neurotrophic factor–tropomyosin receptor kinase B signaling pathway and the ventral tegmental area–nucleus accumbens dopamine circuit.We determined that stress-induced alterations in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels are likely related to the nature,severity,and duration of stress,especially in the above-mentioned brain regions of the corticolimbic system.Therefore,BDNF might be a biological indicator regulating stress-related processes in various brain regions.

Effects of Ning Shen Ling Granule (宁神灵冲剂) and Dehydroepiandrosterone on Cognitive Function in Mice Undergoing Chronic Mild Stress

Objective： To investigate the changes of spontaneous and cognitive behavior, and cholinergic M receptors in the brain of mice subjected to chronic mild stress （CMS）, and to determine the effect of Ning Shen Ling Granule （宁神灵冲剂, NSL） and dehydroepiandrosterone （DHEA） on them. Methods：CMS model mice were established by applying stress every day for 3 consecutive weeks with 7 kinds of unforeseeable stress sources, and they were medicated for 1 week beginning at the 3rd week of modeling. The changes in behavior were determined by Morris Water Maze and spontaneous movement test, and M-receptor binding activity in cerebral cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus were measured by radioactive ligand assay with 3H-QNB. Results： （1） The spontaneous movement in CMS model mice was significantly reduced, with the latency for searching platform in Morris Water Maze obviously prolonged （P〈0.01）, and these abnormal changes in behavior were improved in those treated with NSL and DHEA. （2） The binding ability of M-receptor in cerebral cortex and hippocampus of CMS mice was significantly decreased as compared with those in the control group （P〈0.05）, but could be restored to the normal level after intervention with NSL or DHEA. Conclusion： The decline of spontaneous movement and spatial learning and memory ability could be induced in animals by chronic mild stress, and that may be related to the low activity of central cholinergic M-receptors. Both NSL and DHEA could effectively alleviate the above-mentioned changes.

Dynamic changes of behaviors, dentate gyrus neurogenesis and hippocampal miR-124 expression in rats with depression induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress

The depression-like behavior phenotype,neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and miR-124 expression in the hippocampus are the focus of current research on the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant therapy.The present study aimed to clarify the dynamic changes of depression-like behavior,dentate gyrus neurogenesis and hippocampal miR-124 expression during depression induced by chronic stress to reveal pathological features at different stages of depression and to further provide insight into depression treatment.Chronic unpredictable mild stress depression models were established by exposing Sprague-Dawley rats to various mild stressors,including white noise,thermal swimming,stroboscopic illumination,soiled cages,pairing with three other stressed animals,cold swimming,tail pinch,restraint and water and food deprivation.Chronic unpredictable mild stress model rats underwent dynamic observation from 1 to 8 weeks and were compared with a control group(normal feeding without any stressors).To observe changes in the depression-like behavior phenotype during chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression,a sucrose preference test was used to evaluate the degree of anhedonia.An open-field test was used to evaluate locomotor activity and anxiety status.Compared with the control group,chronic unpredictable mild stress rats lost weight but did not have a depression-like behavioral phenotype at 1-4 weeks.Chronic unpredictable mild stress rats presented decreased sucrose preference and locomotor activity at 5-8 weeks.In addition,chronic unpredictable mild stress rats did not have significant anxiety-like behavior during 1-8 weeks of modeling.To observe neurogenesis dysfunctions and changes in neuronal number in the dentate gyrus during chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression,markers(DCX and DCX/BrdU)of neural proliferation and differentiation and the neuronal marker NeuN were assessed by immunofluorescence.Compared with the control group,neurogenesis and the neuronal number in the dentate gyrus did not change from 2 to 6 weeks;however,neural proliferation and differentiation in the dentate gyrus decreased,and the number of neurons decreased until the eighth week in the chronic unpredictable mild stress group.Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assays and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to measure the expression of hippocampal miR-124 during chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression.The results showed that the expression of hippocampal miR-124 was unchanged during the first 4 weeks but increased from 5 to 6 weeks and decreased from 7 to 8 weeks compared with the control group.These findings indicate that during chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression,the behavioral phenotype,miR-124 expression in the hippocampus,neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and neuronal numbers showed dynamic changes,which suggested that various pathological changes occur at different stages of depression.All experimental procedures and protocols were approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine of China in March 2015.

Effect and mechanism of LW-AFC on chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced mood and cognition impairment of mice

OBJECTIVE To explore the effect and mechanisms of LW-AFC,a new formula derived fromLiuwei Dihuang decoction,on chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS)-induced mood and cogni.tion impairment in mice.METHODS C57 BL/6 J mice were randomly placed into seven groups(n=10):normal control group,CUMS group,Fluoxetine(10 mg·kg^(-1),once per day) group,Liuwei Dihuang decoction group(LW,10 g·kg^(-1),once per day),and LW-AFC(0.8 g·kg^(-1),1.6 g·kg^(-1),3.2 g·kg^(-1),once per day) group.The stressed group was given CUMS for 4 weeks to set up a chronic multiple-stressed model.LW and LW-AFC was oral administered a week prior to CUMS and until the end of the study(a total of 35 d),while fluoxetine was administrated orally for 4 weeks.The anxiety behavior was analyzed using the open field test(OFT) and elevated plus maze test(EPM).The depression behavior was ana.lyzed using the sucrose preference test(SPT) and forced swimming test(FST).Spatial cognition was evaluated using Morris water maze(MWM) test and working memory was evaluated using new object recognition test(NORT).RESULTS CUMS for 28 d increased depressive-and anxiety-like behaviors.LW-AFC(1.6 g·kg^(-1)) significantly increased the numbers of entries into the open arm and time in the open arm of CUMS mice(P<0.05).LW-AFC(3.2 g·kg^(-1)) increased sucrose consumption and de.creased the immobility time of FST(P<0.01) of CUMS mice.The MWM test showed that spatial learning andmemory in CUMS mice were remarkably affected relative to controls,whereas LW-AFC(3.2 g·kg^(-1)) im.proves cognitive functions(P<0.05).CONCLUSION The mood and theability of learning and memory of thestressed group can be affected after exposure to CUS.Oral administration of LW-AFC significant.ly improved CUMS-induced impairments of mood and cognition in mice.

Vitamin D_(3) attenuates anxiety-like behavior in long-term ovariectomized rats with unpredictable mild stress

The impact of various vitamin D3(VD3)doses(1.0,2.5,or 5 mg/kg,s.c.)in mitigating the negative consequences of chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS)was investigated.Adult female rats with long-term estrogen deficiency were assessed using the sucrose preference test(SPT),the elevated plus-maze(EPM),the light/dark test(LDT),and the open-field test(OFT)to measure anhedonia-like and anxiety-like behavior.The corticosterone(CS)and adrenocorticotrophic hormone(ACTH)concentrations in blood serum and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF)expression in the hippocampus of long-term ovariectomized(OVX)rats were measured by ELISA kits and/or western blotting.Treatment with VD3(5.0 mg/kg),similarly to fluoxetine(10.0 mg/kg),significantly reduced the anhedonia profile in the SPT and anxiety-like behavior in the EPM and LDT,and CS and ACTH levels in blood serum.It also elevated BDNF levels in the hippocampus of long-term OVX/CUMS compared to OVX/CUMS/solvent rats.Thus,these findings suggest that VD3(5.0 mg/kg)administration might attenuate the anxiety-like profile in long-term OVX adult rats subjected to the CUMS.This might occur via activation of the BDNF signaling pathway in the hippocampus and via restoration of CS and ACTH levels in blood serum.

基于GABA能神经系统探究淫羊藿次苷Ⅱ的抗抑郁作用及机制

目的基于γ氨基丁酸(GABA)能神经系统研究淫羊藿次苷Ⅱ(ICSⅡ)的抗抑郁作用及潜在机制。方法将雄性昆明小鼠分为对照组(C组,10只)和造模组(50只),造模组小鼠以慢性不可预知温和应激法复制抑郁模型。刺激21 d后,将造模组小鼠随机分为抑郁模型组(NS组)、阳性对照药组[ECS组,草酸艾司西酞普兰15 mg/(kg·d)]和ICSⅡ低、中、高剂量组[ICSⅡ-L、ICSⅡ-M、ICSⅡ-H组,ICSⅡ10、20、30 mg/(kg·d)],每组10只。各药物组小鼠灌胃相应药物,每天1次,连续14 d。检测各组小鼠的糖水偏爱率、运动总距离、悬尾实验和强迫游泳实验的静止不动时间,观察其海马CA3区神经元及尼氏体形态,检测海马组织中GABA、谷氨酸(Glu)含量、GABA/Glu比值及GABA能神经系统相关蛋白(GABA A受体α1、GABA B受体1、GABA囊泡转运体、谷氨酸脱羧酶67、GABA膜转运体3)的表达情况。结果与C组比较,NS组小鼠糖水偏爱率显著降低,运动总距离显著缩短,悬尾实验和强迫游泳实验的静止不动时间均显著延长(P<0.05);海马CA3区的神经元形态不规则且尼氏体减少,结构完整的神经元数量显著减少(P<0.05);海马组织中Glu含量显著升高,GABA含量、GABA/Glu比值和GABA能神经系统相关蛋白表达水平均显著降低(P<0.05)。与NS组比较,各药物组大鼠的抑郁样行为均有所改善,上述指标普遍逆转(P<0.05)。结论ICSⅡ能够改善抑郁模型小鼠的抑郁样行为,其机制可能与调节GABA、Glu平衡,增加GABA的合成、转运、释放以及调节相关受体的表达进而改善GABA能神经系统功能有关。

基于CUMS模型探究抑郁症对细菌感染的影响及作用

【目的】抑郁症是一种常见的精神疾病,对患者的身体健康有着深远的影响。抑郁症与较高的细菌感染风险相关;然而,这是否是一种因果关系,以及抑郁症如何影响感染仍不清楚。因此,本研究旨在通过构建慢性不可预测轻度应激(CUMS)模型,探究抑郁表型在小鼠细菌感染中的作用。【方法】小鼠经CUMS诱导4周,通过行为学测试评估抑郁表型。随后,小鼠腹腔注射肺炎克雷伯菌模拟细菌感染,感染后48 h收集血清和腹腔组织。苏木精-伊红染色(HE)观察组织病理学改变,酶联免疫吸附试验(ELISA)检测炎性因子水平。此外,对感染前收集的小鼠粪便样本进行肠道菌群16S rDNA基因测序分析,并检测未感染小鼠结肠组织中NF-κB/NLRP3信号通路的表达水平。【结果】行为学测试结果显示,与对照组相比,CUMS小鼠体质量显著降低(P<0.0001,t=5.426),蔗糖偏好率显著降低(P<0.001,t=4.937),游泳静止时间显著增加(P<0.001,t=16.37),旷场中央区域停留时间显著减少(P<0.01,t=3.575)。生存分析显示,与对照组小鼠相比,感染后CUMS小鼠的生存率显著降低(P<0.05)。HE染色结果显示,CUMS小鼠肝脏(P<0.05,t=4.025)、肾脏(P<0.05,t=2.828)、肠系膜(P<0.01,t=5.367)组织损伤程度明显加重。ELISA结果显示,炎症因子IL-6(P<0.01,t=3.365)、IL-1β(P<0.01,t=4.061)、TNF-α(P<0.01,t=4.460)和LPS(P<0.0001,t=27.24)水平升高。16S rDNA测序结果显示,CUMS小鼠肠道菌群结构发生改变,与对照组小鼠明显不同,表现出菌群失调。与对照组相比,CUMS小鼠结肠组织中NF-κB(P<0.01,t=6.825)和NLRP3(P<0.001,t=9.561)的表达水平升高。【结论】CUMS小鼠发生更严重的细菌感染。CUMS诱导的抑郁表型可能因为破坏肠道菌群组成和激活NF-κB/NLRP3信号通路,增加了小鼠对细菌感染的易感性。

南方红豆杉果乙酸乙酯部位对抑郁症模型大鼠表型和炎症介质的影响

目的:探讨南方红豆杉果乙酸乙酯部位对抑郁症模型大鼠的影响及可能作用机制。方法:采用随机数字法将20只雌性斯泼累格·多雷(SD)大鼠随机分为对照组、模型组、红豆杉果组和氟西汀组,每组5只。除对照组外,其余各组采用慢性不可预知温和应激(CUMS)法4周制备抑郁症模型。造模后红豆杉果组给予南方红豆杉果乙酸乙酯提取物200 mg/(kg·d)灌胃,对照组和模型组给予等体积的生理盐水灌胃,共给药4周。在造模结束后对对照组和模型组进行糖水实验和旷场实验,给药结束后对各组大鼠进行糖水实验和旷场实验,检测各组大鼠血清中白细胞介素-1β(IL-1β)、IL-6、IL-18的含量。结果:在造模结束后与对照组比较,模型组大鼠的糖水消耗率明显减少(P<0.01),活动距离明显降低(P<0.01)。实验结束后,与模型组比较,红豆杉果组和氟西汀组大鼠的糖水消耗率明显增加(P<0.01),活动距离明显增加(P<0.01);与对照组比较,模型组血清中IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18的含量均明显升高(P<0.05,P<0.01);与模型组比较,红豆杉果组和氟西汀组血清中IL-1β、IL-6、IL-18的含量均明显下降(P<0.05,P<0.01)。结论:南方红豆杉果乙酸乙酯部位有抗抑郁的作用,同时有抗炎的作用,可能通过降低抑郁症大鼠炎症反应起到缓解大鼠抑郁样行为。

百合地黄汤对抑郁症大鼠肠道菌群的影响

目的:探究百合地黄汤对抑郁症大鼠肠道菌群的影响。方法:采用孤养和慢性不可预知性温和应激刺激制备大鼠抑郁症模型,经百合地黄汤给药后,采用糖水偏好试验和旷场试验进行药效学评价,并对大鼠的结肠进行病理学检测;收集大鼠粪便,应用16S rRNA高通量测序技术对大鼠肠道菌群多样性进行分析,并进行功能预测。结果:与正常组比较,模型组大鼠体质量明显降低;给药后,各剂量组大鼠体质量均有增加的趋势。糖水偏好实验结果显示,与正常组比较,模型组大鼠糖水偏爱度明显减弱(P<0.01);给药后,各剂量组糖水偏爱度均有增强的趋势,且中剂量组和低剂量组差异有统计学意义(P<0.01)。在旷场实验中,与正常组比较,模型组大鼠自主活动显著减弱(P<0.01);给药后,各剂量组大鼠自主活动均有增强的趋势,且低剂量组与模型组比较差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。病理结果显示,模型组大鼠结肠黏膜遭到破坏,经百合地黄汤给药后,各给药组结肠黏膜损伤均有不同程度的恢复。在菌群多样性方面,经百合地黄汤治疗后,在门水平上,厚壁菌门的丰度明显增加,拟杆菌门、疣微菌门、变形菌门及蓝藻门的丰度明显降低,其中变形菌门和蓝藻门改变具有统计学意义(P<0.05)。在属水平上,降低了norank_f__Muribaculaceae、瘤胃球菌属及粪球菌属等菌属的丰度,升高了乳酸菌属、罗姆布茨菌属、Turicibacter及芽孢杆菌属等菌属的丰度,其中norank_f__Muribaculaceae、罗姆布茨菌属、Turicibacter、norank_f__Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group、Prevotellaceae_UCG-001及Prevotellaceae_UCG-001的改变有统计学意义(P<0.05)。京都基因和基因组百科全书(KEGG)功能预测显示,差异菌群的功能与氨基酸代谢、能量代谢、神经系统以及神经退行性疾病等相关。结论:百合地黄汤能够调节抑郁症大鼠的肠道菌群进而改善抑郁症大鼠的抑郁样行为。

小鼠在慢性不可预知应激条件下的学习认知能力与神经肽Y、皮质醇的相关性

目的 探讨慢性不可预知轻度应激(chronic unpredictable mild stress, CUMS)状态下小鼠的学习认知能力与血清神经肽Y(neuropeptide Y,NPY)、皮质醇等应激因子水平的相关性。方法 将12只C57BL/6小鼠分为对照组和CUMS组,每组各6只。CUMS组小鼠完成30天CUMS造模,对照组小鼠无特殊处理,定期监测两组小鼠的体质量变化。利用Morris水迷宫实验检测两组小鼠水迷宫运动轨迹、潜伏期、第二象限/第四象限路程比值、穿越平台次数。采用酶联免疫吸附试验(enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, ELISA)法检测两组小鼠血清NPY、皮质醇、α淀粉酶、酪氨酸水平。结果 造模后第9天CUMS组小鼠体质量较对照组降低(P<0.05),性情易暴躁,提示应激措施有效果,造模成功。Morris水迷宫实验第2天,两组小鼠运动轨迹、潜伏期、第二象限/第四象限路程比值、穿越平台次数比较差异无统计学意义(P>0.05);Morris水迷宫实验第6天,两组小鼠运动轨迹、潜伏期、第二象限/第四象限路程比值、穿越平台次数比较差异具有统计学意义(P均<0.05)。与对照组相比,CUMS组小鼠血清NPY、皮质醇水平升高,差异有统计学意义(P均<0.05)。小鼠血清NPY水平与第二象限/第四象限路程比值存在线性关系(y=-0.001x+1.738,R^(2)=0.586,P=0.004),与潜伏期存在线性关系(y=-0.027x+51.130,R^(2)=0.498,P=0.010)。结论 CUMS状态下,小鼠血清NPY水平的升高与学习认知能力的提高有关。

柴胡皂苷A抗抑郁的靶点识别及作用研究

中药柴胡具有改善抑郁患者临床治疗效果的作用,柴胡皂苷A(saikosaponin A,SSA)是柴胡主要药效成分,本研究以SSA为研究对象,利用慢性不可预知性温和应激(chronic unpredictable mild stress,CUMS)模型小鼠悬尾(tail suspension test,TST)和强迫游泳实验(forced swimming test,FST)明确SSA的抗抑郁作用。利用计算机分子对接技术分析并验证SSA的作用靶点,并利用细胞热转移测定实验(cellular thermal shift assay,CETSA)和药物亲和力靶稳定性实验(drug affinity responsive target stability,DARTS)验证SSA的靶标;采用Western blotting等技术研究SSA的抗抑郁作用机制。CUMS模型TST和FST结果表明,与模型组相比,SSA能够显著缩短小鼠的不动时间,表明SSA具有显著的抗抑郁作用。计算机分子对接证明了SSA与催产素受体(oxytocin receptor,OXTR)结合效果较好,表明SSA抗抑郁的作用靶点可能是OXTR。CETSA结果表明在一系列温度梯度处理下,SSA能够明显延缓OXTR的热变性;DARTS实验结果表明,在一系列酶浓度梯度处理下,SSA能够显著降低OXTR对蛋白质水解的敏感性,表明SSA抗抑郁的作用靶点是OXTR。此外,SSA对OXTR下游的ERK通路没有激活作用。本研究表明SSA发挥抗抑郁作用的靶点可能为OXTR,为抑郁症等精神疾病的临床研究治疗和新药开发提供必要的理论与参考依据。

裙带菜多糖通过减轻海马氧化应激改善CUMS大鼠抑郁样行为

目的:探究裙带菜多糖(UPPs)对慢性不可预见性温和应激(CUMS)处理大鼠抑郁样行为及单胺类神经递质含量、氧化应激和下丘脑-腺垂体-肾上腺(HPA)轴的影响。方法:利用CUMS方法制备大鼠抑郁症模型,使用灌胃方法分别给予大鼠生理盐水(NS)、不同剂量UPPs干预。观察大鼠的一般状况并通过旷场试验(OFT)、糖水偏好试验(SPT)、强迫游泳试验(FST)检测大鼠的抑郁样行为,通过商品化试剂盒检测大鼠海马或血清中5-羟色胺(5-HT)、多巴胺(DA)和去甲肾上腺素(NE)、丙二醛(MDA)、超氧化物岐化酶(SOD)和过氧化氢酶(CAT)、促肾上腺皮质激素(ACTH)、皮质酮(CORT)活性或者水平,利用Western Blot法检测海马糖皮质激素受体(GR)蛋白的表达水平,利用苏木精-伊红(HE)染色观察大鼠海马的组织结构。结果:UPPs中、高剂量组大鼠抑郁样行为明显改善(P<0.05),UPPs高剂量组大鼠的海马5-HT、DA、NE含量均有提高(P<0.05),血清和海马的MDA含量均有降低(P<0.05)、SOD和CAT活性均有提高(P<0.05),血清ACTH、CORT含量均有降低(P<0.05);UPPs中剂量组海马MDA、CAT,血清SOD、ACTH、CORT均有改善(P<0.05);海马GR蛋白表达水平提升(P<0.05);海马齿状回病理改变明显改善。结论:UPPs能减轻CUMS大鼠的抑郁样行为,其作用机制可能与提高海马单胺类神经递质含量、减轻氧化应激损伤和HPA轴亢进有关。

Quercetin regulates depression-like behavior in CUMS rat models via TLR4/NF-κB signaling

Background:Depression is becoming increasingly prevalent around the world,imposing a substantial burden on individuals,families,as well as society.Quercetin is known to be highly effective in treating depression.However,additional research is needed to dissect the mechanisms of its anti-depressive effects.Methods:For this study,Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomized into the control,model,quercetin,or fluoxetine group.The latter three groups were exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS)for 42 d.The first two groups received saline solution daily via oral gavage.Meanwhile,the quercetin group was orally administered a quercetin suspension(52.08 mg/kg)every day,while the fluoxetine group was orally administered a fluoxetine solution(2.08 mg/kg).Here,fluoxetine served as the positive control drug to compare the therapeutic effects of quercetin.The experimental period was 6 weeks.Depressive behaviors in rats were assessed through various physiological and behavioral measures.Additionally,pathological changes in hippocampal tissues were examined using Nissl staining.Serum cytokines were detected using an enzymelinked immunosorbent assay(ELISA),and immunohistochemistry was employed to quantify the levels and integral optical density(IOD)values of ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule-1(Iba-1)expression in the brain.Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR(RT-qPCR)was utilized to evaluate the mRNA levels of inflammatory indicators as well as toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),and nuclear factor-κappa B P65(NF-κB P65)in hippocampus.Western blot(WB)technique was employed to observe the protein levels of TLR4,NF-κB P65,and phospho-NF-κB P65(p-NF-κB P65).Results:After 42 d of exposure to CUMS,rats exhibited a slow increase in body weight,a reduction in food intake,an abnormal preference for sugar water,and aberrant open-field behaviors.Pathological analysis revealed the disintegration,rupture,interruption,and disorganization of hippocampal neuronal cells after CUMS exposure,along with a decrease in Nissl bodies in the CA1 region.This was accompanied by the elevated expression of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),and interleukin-6(IL-6)in the serum and the upregulation of IL-1β,IL-6,and TNF-αmRNA expression in the hippocampus.Increases in Iba-1-positive cells and the IOD values of Iba-1 were detected in hippocampal microglia.Furthermore,TLR4 and NF-κB P65 mRNA and protein levels were upregulated in hippocampal tissues.Quercetin,an antidepressant,could alleviate depression-like symptoms in rats and downregulate inflammatory factors associated with the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in hippocampal microglia,and its therapeutic effect was comparable to fluoxetine.Conclusion:In rat models of CUMS,quercetin may act as an antidepressant by inhibiting inflammation in hippocampal microglia via TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.These results offer experimental and theoretical support for applying quercetin in the clinical management of depression.

3xTg-AD转基因小鼠抑郁模型的建立及认知相关病理改变与比较

目的:为分析抑郁状态对阿尔茨海默病(AD)小鼠病理变化的影响,对3xTg-AD小鼠进行慢性社交挫败应激(CSDS)与慢性温和不可预知性应激(CUMS)刺激,建立早期AD诱发抑郁小鼠模型,并检测小鼠认知行为改变、海马区小胶质细胞的活化及神经元的丢失情况。方法:3xTg-AD小鼠3月龄时交替进行为期8 d的应激刺激,通过行为学评估小鼠抑郁状态并制订评价标准,进行认知行为的检测及分析,取海马部位脑组织切片进行免疫荧光染色,观察β-淀粉样蛋白(Aβ)沉积和微管相关蛋白(tau)的聚集情况、小胶质细胞活化及神经元的丢失情况。结果:抑郁相关行为学结果提示CSDS+CUMS组小鼠出现抑郁相关表型。认知行为检测发现CSDS+CUMS组小鼠的新物体识别指数明显降低(P<0.05),Morris水迷宫显示CSDS+CUMS组的空间记忆能力显著降低(P<0.05),但条件恐惧实验中CSDS+CUMS组小鼠无明显恐惧记忆丧失。免疫荧光染色结果显示CSDS+CUMS组小鼠海马区4月龄出现Aβ沉积,小胶质细胞的活化增加(P<0.001),并出现一定程度的神经元丢失(P<0.001);8月龄时CSDS+CUMS组小鼠提早出现tau蛋白聚集。结论:我们建立了一种AD诱发抑郁小鼠模型,3xTg-AD小鼠抑郁后提早出现学习记忆能力下降,海马区神经元AD相关病理沉积增多,并伴随小胶质细胞活化及神经元丢失。

褐藻寡糖对慢性不可预知温和应激诱导的斑马鱼抑郁样行为及肠道菌群的影响

目的:探究褐藻寡糖(AOS)对慢性不可预知温和应激(CUMS)模型斑马鱼抑郁样行为及肠道菌群的影响。方法:将野生型AB品系斑马鱼随机分为正常组、模型组、阳性对照组和AOS低、中、高剂量(AOS-L、AOS-M、AOS-H)组,每组24尾。除正常组外,其余各组均接受14 d的CUMS建立斑马鱼抑郁样模型。除正常组和模型组给予等体积饲养水外,其余各组于第8天开始每天浸泡60 min相应浓度的AOS。14 d后,采用新型水箱测试(NTT)和明暗箱测试(LDB)进行行为实验,酶联免疫吸附试验(ELISA)法检测脑组织中5-羟色胺(5-HT)和去甲肾上腺素(NE)水平,16s r RNA测序检测肠道菌群变化。结果:与模型组比较,在NTT中,阳性对照组和AOS-H组斑马鱼第1次进入顶部潜伏期显著缩短,在顶部的时间显著延长,进入顶部的次数显著增加(均P<0.01),活动范围扩大。与模型组比较,在LDB中,阳性对照组和AOS-H组斑马鱼第1次进入光亮区域的潜伏期显著缩短,AOS-M组和AOS-H组在光亮区域的持续时间显著延长,阳性对照组和AOS各剂量组进入光亮区域的次数显著增加(P<0.05或P<0.01)。与正常组比较,模型组体质量指数、5-HT和NE水平显著降低(P<0.01)。与模型组比较,AOS-M组、AOS-H组体质量指数显著增加(P<0.05或P<0.01);阳性对照组和AOS-H组5-HT水平显著提高(P<0.01)。AOS可以提高肠道菌群丰富度和多样性,调节群落组成结构。在门水平上,调节变形菌门、放线菌门、梭杆菌门和厚壁菌门等菌门的相对丰度。在属水平上,调节鲸杆菌属、气单胞菌属、邻单胞菌属、未分类根瘤菌属和根瘤菌属菌群等菌属的相对丰度。影响肠道中碳代谢、嘌呤代谢和丙酮酸代谢等代谢功能及相关物质转运过程。结论:AOS能改善CUMS斑马鱼抑郁样行为,增加体质量指数,其作用与调节神经递质、肠道菌群组成及其代谢和物质转运功能有关。

腧穴“解郁方”对慢性不可预测轻度应激抑郁大鼠下丘脑-垂体-肾上腺轴及BDNF/TrkB/CREB通路的影响

目的:观察腧穴“解郁方”对慢性不可预测轻度应激(CUMS)抑郁大鼠下丘脑-垂体-肾上腺(HPA)轴和脑源性神经营养因子(BDNF)/酪氨酸激酶B受体(TrkB)/环磷酸腺苷反应元件结合蛋白(CREB)信号通路的影响。方法:40只无特定病原体(SPF)级Sprague Danley(SD)雄性大鼠随机分为空白组(10只)、模型组(10只)、西药组(10只)、针刺组(10只),除空白组外,其余3组连续28 d构建CUMS抑郁大鼠模型,造模成功后,西药组连续14 d灌胃盐酸帕罗西汀混悬液,每日1次;针刺组针刺百会、太冲、神门,每日1次,每次20 min,连续针刺14 d。苏木素-伊红(HE)染色观察大鼠海马病理变化,酶联免疫吸附法(ELISA)测定血清促肾上腺皮质激素释放激素(CRH)、促肾上腺皮质激素(ACTH)、皮质醇(CORT)水平;免疫组化(IHC)检测海马BDNF、TrkB表达情况,蛋白质免疫印迹法(Western Blot)及实时荧光定量-聚合酶链式反应(PCR)测定海马BDNF、TrkB、CREB蛋白及mRNA的表达。结果:与空白组比较,模型组血清CRH、ACTH和CORT含量上升(P<0.01),海马病理损伤严重,海马BDNF、TrkB平均光密度降低(P<0.01),BDNF、TrkB、CREB蛋白及mRNA明显下降(P<0.05或P<0.01)。与模型组比较,针刺组血清CRH、ACTH、CORT含量下降(P<0.05),海马病理损害明显减轻,BDNF、TrkB平均光密度明显增加(P<0.05),BDNF、CREB、TrkB蛋白及mRNA表达水平上升(P<0.05)。结论:腧穴“解郁方”可能通过调节HPA轴和调控BDNF/TrkB/CREB信号通路,改善CUMS诱导的大鼠抑郁样行为。