Intranasal immune challenge induces sex-dependent depressive-like behavior and cytokine expression in the brain.

ABSTRACT: The association between activation of the immune system and mood disorders has been reported by several studies. However, the mechanisms by which the immune system affects mood are only partially understood. In the present study, we detected depressive-like behavior in a rat animal model which involves the induction of inflammation in the nasal cavities by intranasal (i.n.) instillation of bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Female rats showed depressive-like behavior as evidenced by the forced swim test after repeated i.n. administration of LPS. These responses were not paralleled by alterations in motor activity as measured by the open field test. In the same animals, corticosterone responses after the swimming sessions were the highest of all the groups evaluated. Real-time RT PCR was

SUBMITTER: Tonelli LH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2268621 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature