Affiliation:
1. Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University
2. Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University
3. Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo
4. Medical Physiology Department, Medical Division, National Research Centre
Abstract
Abstract
Depression, a devastating brain illness, necessitates the exploration of novel antidepressant treatments. We evaluated the antidepressant effects of free Curcumin, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), and curcumin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles (Zn(cur)O NPs). The nano-formulations were extensively characterized using advanced techniques. An acute toxicity study ensured the safety of Zn(cur)O NPs. Rats were assigned to one of five groups: control, reserpine-induced depression model, treatment with ZnO NPs, free Curcumin, or Zn(cur)O NPs. Behavioral assessments (forced swimming test [FST] and open-field test [OFT]) and neurochemical analyses were conducted. Zn(cur)O NPs exhibited superior efficacy in ameliorating reserpine-induced behavioral and neurochemical effects compared to free Curcumin and ZnO NPs. The reserpine-induced model displayed reduced motor activity, swimming time, and increased immobility time in the FST and OFT. Treatment with Zn(cur)O NPs 45 mg/kg, significantly improved motor activity and reduced immobility time. Furthermore, Zn(cur)O NPs decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, while increasing reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) levels. Additionally, concentrations of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) increased. In conclusion, curcumin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles demonstrate potent antidepressant effects, alleviating depressive-like behavior in rats. These findings support Zn(cur)O NPs as a promising therapeutic strategy for depression management, warranting further investigation and clinical validation.
Publisher
Research Square Platform LLC