A rat study model of depression-driven chronic prostatitis by modulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR network.
Jun-Long Feng1,2, Dan Hou1,3, Cong Zhao1,2
1Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
Andrologia
|June 21, 2022
Summary
Depression may lead to chronic prostatitis (CP) by downregulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Restoring this pathway reduced inflammation in a rat model, suggesting a therapeutic target for co-occurring depression and CP.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Psychiatry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Depression and chronic prostatitis (CP) are prevalent global health issues.
- Andrological patients frequently experience both depression and CP concurrently.
- Previous research indicates depression is an independent risk factor for CP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between depression and chronic prostatitis (CP).
- To identify potential molecular targets and signaling pathways involved in both conditions.
- To explore the role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in depression-induced CP.
Main Methods:
- Bioinformatics analysis to predict targets and pathways.
- Establishment of a rat model for depression using chronic restraint stress.
- Assessment of protein and mRNA expression via Western blotting and RT-qPCR.
- Evaluation of PI3K/Akt agonists' effects on prostate inflammation and molecular markers.
Main Results:
- Depression model rats exhibited significantly lower protein and mRNA levels of PI3K, Akt, and mTOR compared to controls.
- Administration of PI3K/Akt agonists reduced prostate inflammation in model rats.
- Agonist treatment led to increased expression of PI3K, Akt, and mTOR in prostate tissue.
Conclusions:
- Depression may induce chronic prostatitis (CP) through the negative regulation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling network.
- The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is implicated in the pathophysiology of co-occurring depression and CP.
- Modulation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway presents a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with both conditions.
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