Effects of BCH 325 (Pro-D-Phe-Pro-Gly) on open field behavior after chronic stress procedure

The chronic stress model is an animal model relevant to clinical depression. The chronic stress rat group showed a significant decrease in motor activity. The reduced open field activity could be restored by subchronic treatment with imipramine and doxepine. Subchronic treatment with haloperidol, amphetamine and methylglucamine orotate was not able to alter the reduced open field activity. Previous treatment with a beta-casomorphin derivative (BCH 325) significantly antagonized the effect of chronic stress. The findings point out an antidepressant-like effect of BCH 325.