Shuyu Capsules Relieve Premenstrual Syndrome Depression by Reducing5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRExpression in the Rat Brain

Abstract

The effects of the Shuyu capsule on5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRexpression in a rat model of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) depression and on5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRexpression and hippocampal neuron 5-HT3channel current were investigated, to elucidate its mechanism of action against PMS depression. PMS depression model rats were divided into depression and Shuyu- and fluoxetine-treated groups, which were compared to control rats for frontal lobe and hippocampal5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRexpression and behavior. The depressed model rats displayed symptoms of depression, which were reduced in treated and normal control rats. Frontal lobe and hippocampal5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRlevels were significantly higher in the model versus the control group and were significantly lower in the Shuyu group. As compared to control rats, the 5-HT3R channel current in the model group was significantly higher; the 5-HT3R channel current in hippocampal neurons treated with serum from Shuyu group rats was significantly lower than that in those treated with model group serum. Thus, PMS depression may be related to5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRexpression and increased 5-HT3channel current. Shuyu capsules rectified abnormal5-HT3ARand5-HT3BRexpression and 5-HT3channel current changes in a rat model; this finding may provide insight into treating PMS depression.