Effects of Edgeworthia chrysantha Lindl. Extract on BDNF and its Receptor TrkB in the Hippocampus of Depression Model Rats

Background This study investigates the effect of Edgeworthia chrysantha Lindl. on the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) in the hippocampus and cortex of depression model rats. Methods A chronic unpredictable stress-induced depression model was used, and the behavior changes of animals as well as the expression levels of BDNF and TrkB were measured in all groups (normal control, model, venlafaxine hydrochloride, and Edgeworthia chrysantha Lindl. (100, 50, 25 mg·kg −1 ) dose groups). Results Our results revealed that the scores of horizontal and vertical movements in the open field experiment were significantly decreased in the model group compared to the normal control. Besides, the expressions of BDNF and TrkB in the hippocampus and cortex were significantly decreased in the model group compared to the normal control. On the other hand, treatment with Edgeworthia chrysantha Lindl significantly improved depressive behavior and increased the expression of BDNF and receptor TrkB in the hippocampus and cortex of rats compared to model group. Conclusion Edgeworthia chrysantha Lindl. demonstrates potential antidepressant effects, possibly mediated by the upregulation of BDNF and TrkB expression, highlighting its neuroprotective properties.