Physiological and behavioral study on depressed rats model treated with Hordeum vulgare extract referenced to SSRI class
ABSTRACT
Objective: The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of Hordeum vulgare aqueous
extract (HVE) in a sub-chronic depression rat model. Methods: Thirty male rats were randomly
divided into five groups: the first group served as a control group; the second group received i.p.
injection of reserpine (Res) (0.5 mg/ kg) for 20 days, the third group received i.p. injection of reserpine
plus fluoxetine (Res + Flux) (10 mg/kg p.o.) for 20 days, the fourth group received i.p. injection
of Res plus HVE (1,000 mg/kg p.o.), and the fifth group received Res + Flus +HVE. Behavioral tests
were measured on the 21st day of the experiment, then rats were decapitated to determine liver
function [alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, TP, Alb, Glob, A/G), brain monoamines and
their metabolites (NE, DA, 5-HT, HVA, DOPAC, 5HIAA), oxidative and nitrositive stress markers (MDA,
glutathione, oxidized glutathione, NO, SOD, 8OHdG) and purinergic cell capacity (ATP, ADP, AMP).
Results: Obtained data showed neuro-degenerative effect of Res and deteriorative manifestation
in liver function. Moreover, flux treatment showed an attenuated deterioration, manifested by Res
for monoamines and its metabolites, and subsequently stabilized behaviors and decreased depression
status with behavioral tests indicators. On the other hand, it showed initial indicators of liver
alteration, presented by serum liver function and histological examination. In addition, treatment
with HVE showed amelioration for behavioral, neurochemical functions, and decreased oxidative
stress. The results were confirmed by the histological examination. Conclusion: HVE ameliorate
depression induced by Res, stimulates monoamines and antioxidant status, decrease oxidonitrositive
markers and increases cell energy capacity without side effects on liver, contrasting to selective
serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, which produces initial indicators of liver damages.
Key words: Depression, Fluxitine, Hordeum vulgare, Rats, Resrpine