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Updated: May 10, 2025
A Chronic Immobilization Stress Protocol for Inducing Depression-Like Behavior in Mice
Published on: May 15, 2019
The effects and mechanisms of far-infrared ray on depression-like behavior induced by CRS in mice
Yian Ling1, Yejun Gao2, Wanbin Liu3
1Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China; Department of Science and Education, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China; Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Hefei, China.
Purpose:
Far-infrared ray (FIR) is an electromagnetic wave known to impart health benefits against various pathophysiological conditions, including diabetes mellitus, renocardiovascular disorders, stress, and depression, among others. However, the precise impact of FIR on major depressive disorder (MDD) and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of FIR on depression-like behavior in mice.
Methods:
A mouse model of depression was established using chronic restraint stress (CRS). Behavioral tests were performed to assess alterations in depression-like behaviors. Biochemical methods were employed to measure the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, S100β, IL-17, melatonin (MT), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and corticosterone (CORT) in mice serum. Similarly, the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, S100β, IL-17, and MT in mice brains were measured using biochemical methods. Hematoxylin-eosin and Nissl staining were utilized to detect morphological changes in the mice hippocampus. In addition, the structure and mitochondrial morphology of hippocampal neurons and microglia were studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Results:
The results of behavioral tests revealed that FIR mitigated the depression-like behaviors induced by CRS. FIR also reversed the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and related cytokines in the periphery and brain. The results of hematoxylin-eosin and Nissl staining showed that FIR improved the damage of mice's hippocampus. Additionally, TEM revealed that FIR alleviated the damage of CRS to hippocampal neurons and microglia.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest that FIR can ameliorate depression-like behavior induced by CRS in mice. FIR can reverse the levels of related cytokines in the periphery and brain, and alleviate damage to neurons and microglia, which may constitute its underlying molecular mechanism.
Insights
Far-infrared ray (FIR) therapy effectively reduced depression-like behaviors in mice by modulating inflammatory cytokines and protecting brain cells. This study clarifies FIR
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Far-infrared ray (FIR) therapy shows potential health benefits for various conditions.
- The specific effects of FIR on major depressive disorder (MDD) and its molecular underpinnings require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic effects of FIR on depression-like behavior in a mouse model.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which FIR exerts its antidepressant effects.
Main Methods:
- A mouse model of depression was induced using chronic restraint stress (CRS).
- Behavioral tests, biochemical assays (measuring cytokines, neurotransmitters, oxidative stress markers, BDNF, corticosterone), histological staining (H&E, Nissl), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were employed.
- Levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, S100β, IL-17, melatonin, 5-HT, GSH, MDA, BDNF, and CORT were assessed in serum and brain tissue.
Main Results:
- FIR treatment significantly mitigated depression-like behaviors in CRS-exposed mice.
- FIR reversed elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in both the periphery and brain.
- Histological and TEM analyses indicated that FIR alleviated CRS-induced hippocampal damage to neurons and microglia.
Conclusions:
- FIR therapy demonstrates efficacy in ameliorating depression-like behaviors associated with chronic stress in mice.
- FIR's antidepressant effects may be mediated by the modulation of inflammatory cytokines and the protection of hippocampal neuronal and microglial structures.
