Resistant Starch-Capric Acid Effectively Improves Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Depressive Behavior by Protecting the...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Gut microbiota, immunity, and neuroinflammation are implicated in depression pathogenesis.
• Fatty acids possess neuroprotective properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of capric acid, delivered via resistant starch, on LPS-induced depression-like behavior in mice.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, including gut microbiota modulation and neuroinflammation regulation.

Main Methods:

• Male ICR mice were administered a resistant starch-capric acid complex (RS-FA) for 50 days.
• A depression model was induced using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injections.
• Behavioral tests (TST, OFT), biochemical analyses (TNF-α, 5-HT), histological examination, and 16S rRNA sequencing were performed.

Main Results:

• RS-FA pretreatment significantly reduced depression-like behaviors in mice.
• RS-FA decreased serum TNF-α levels and increased hippocampal 5-HT levels.
• Histological analysis showed amelioration of colonic and hippocampal damage.
• 16S rRNA analysis revealed RS-FA reversed LPS-induced gut dysbiosis, increased beneficial bacteria, and elevated short-chain fatty acid levels.
• RS-FA modulated the TLR4/NF-κB and tryptophan metabolic pathways.

Conclusions:

• Capric acid delivered via resistant starch demonstrates antidepressant-like effects.
• The mechanism involves restoring gut microbiota balance, reducing neuroinflammation, and regulating key signaling pathways.
• This approach offers a potential therapeutic strategy for depression by targeting the gut-brain axis.