Abstract

Evidence has suggested that Lactobacillus Plantarum (LP) has benefits on major depression disorders. However, gastric acid and bile may damage LP when it is orally administrated. 1 This study developed a microencapsulation system based on zein to protect the L. Plantarum and improve their survival. To investigate the efficacy and mechanism of the microencapsulated L. Plantarum (MLP) on treating depression disorders, chronic restraint stress (CRS) was applied to build depressive mice models. The LP and MLP were administered respectively to the model mice. The results showed that the MLP could significantly remit the depressive behaviors of the mice model, which was proved through the behavioral tests including open filed test, elevated plus maze test, and forced swimming test. The intestinal microbiota of mice was also evaluated, and 14 genera whose amounts can be remarkably influenced by depression were determined to confirm the therapeutic effects of MLP. The expressions of the pro-inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α in the intestine and hippocampus, and IL-6 in the intestine, were also tested, which were upregulated in the model mice being induced with depression. While the addition of MLP reversed the inflammation in the intestine and hippocampus of depressive mice, which could be the mechanism of MLP treating depression.

References

1. Altered fecal microbiota composition in patients with major depressive disorder. %J Brain Behavior & Immunity. 2015, 48 (4), 186-194.