KREO Prevents CUMS-Induced Depressive-Like Behavior via Modulation of the BDNF Signaling Pathway

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Ethnobotany

Background:

• Chinese Kushui Rose (Rosa sertata × Rose rugosa) is valued for medicinal and edible uses.
• Chinese Kushui Rose Essential Oil (KREO) exhibits potential anxiolytic and sedative-hypnotic properties.
• Growing interest in natural interventions for mental health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the preventive effects of KREO on depression-like behaviors in a mouse model.
• To elucidate the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of KREO's action.

Main Methods:

• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for KREO volatile compound analysis.
• Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model to induce depression-like behaviors in mice.
• Assessment of behavioral changes, body weight, and neurochemical markers (serotonin, BDNF, corticosterone, TrkB, ERK1/2 phosphorylation).

Main Results:

• KREO administration reversed CUMS-induced depression-like behaviors and improved physical and exploratory activity.
• KREO increased hippocampal serotonin (5-HT) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.
• KREO reduced serum corticosterone (Cort) and enhanced hippocampal BDNF signaling pathway activation (TrkB, p-ERK1/2).

Conclusions:

• KREO effectively prevents depression-like behaviors by modulating monoaminergic neurotransmission and attenuating hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity.
• The therapeutic effects of KREO are linked to the activation of the BDNF signaling pathway.
• KREO demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for depression and a functional dietary ingredient.