rTMS Modulation of Behavioral and Biological Measures in 3xTg-AD Mice

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• The biological underpinnings of Alzheimer's disease (AD) behavioral changes are not fully understood.
• Emotional and behavioral alterations in AD contribute to caregiver burden and lack effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate behavioral alterations in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (3xTg-AD mice).
• To evaluate the potential of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and improve AD-related behaviors.

Main Methods:

• 3xTg-AD and wild-type (B6) mice received ANA12 (TrkB receptor antagonist) or Vehicle, combined with rTMS or Sham treatment daily for 14 days.
• Behavioral tests assessed cognitive function, followed by histological and protein analyses of brain samples for BDNF and signaling molecules.

Main Results:

• 3xTg-AD mice exhibited altered open field behavior compared to B6 mice.
• rTMS treatment normalized some behavioral abnormalities in 3xTg-AD mice, reducing hypoactivity.
• 3xTg-AD mice showed higher levels of BDNF and TrkB compared to wild-type mice.

Conclusions:

• rTMS positively influences certain aspects of hypoactivity in Alzheimer's disease models but does not resolve all behavioral abnormalities.
• rTMS demonstrates potential as a therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease, warranting further investigation into its mechanisms and efficacy.