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Centrally administered apelin-13 induces depression-like behavior in mice
Shuang-Yu Lv1, Yao-Jun Qin, Hai-Ting Wang
1Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, 222 Tianshui South Road, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China. lvshy08@lzu.edu.cn
Brain Research Bulletin
|June 26, 2012
Summary
Apelin-13 administration in mice induced depression-like behaviors, mediated by the APJ and kappa-opioid receptors. This effect was observed in the forced swimming and tail suspension tests.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Apelin is a brain-concentrated peptide and the ligand for the angiotensin-like 1 receptor (APJ).
- Emotion-related behaviors are crucial in understanding neurological disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of apelin-13 on emotion-related behaviors in mice.
- To elucidate the receptor pathways involved in apelin-13's behavioral effects.
Main Methods:
- Intracerebroventricular administration of apelin-13 and receptor antagonists (APJ, opioid, CRF).
- Behavioral tests including forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), rotarod test, and wire hanging test.
- Assessment of spontaneous activity.
Main Results:
- Apelin-13 dose-dependently increased immobility time in FST and TST, indicating depression-like behavior.
- The effects of apelin-13 were blocked by APJ and kappa-opioid receptor antagonists, but not CRF receptor antagonist.
- Apelin-13 did not affect spontaneous activity or motor function in rotarod and wire hanging tests.
Conclusions:
- Centrally administered apelin-13 elicits depression-like behavior in mice.
- This behavior is mediated through the APJ and kappa-opioid receptors.
- CRF receptors are not involved in apelin-13-induced depression-like behavior.
