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Effect of candesartan on chronic restraint stress-induced depression-like behaviors in rats

CAO Shuang1, DU Qin1, LI Bing2, YUAN Li-fen1, DING Jian-wei3   

  1. 1．Shanghai Ninth Peoples Hospital,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011， China; 2.Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China； 3．Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
  • Online:2016-04-28 Published:2016-05-26
  • Supported by:

    Foundation of Shanghai Ninth Peoples Hospital， Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine

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Abstract:

Objective To observe the effect of candesartan on improving chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced depression-like behaviors in rats and explore novel targets for the treatment of depression. Methods Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control group (n=8), stressed group (n=8), and candesartan group (n=8), respectively. Open field test (OFT), sucrose preference test (SPT), and forced swimming test (FST) were performed to evaluate depression-like behaviors in rats. ELISA was used to detect adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) and aniotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ) levels. Results Compared with the stressed group, rearing frequency and horizontal moving distance in OFT in the candesartan group significantly increased (P=0.000), sucrose preference percentage in SPT elevated (P=0.027), immobility time in FST reduced (P=0.000), and plasma ACTH level significantly decreased (P=0.000). Conclusion Candesartan can improve CRS-induced depression-like behaviors in rats.

Key words: candesartan, chronic restraint stress, depression