Roles of BDNF/TrkB Signaling Pathway in Anti-Depressant Effect of Vortioxetine

Objective To investigate the effects of vortioxetine on BDNF/TrkB signal pathway. Methods Kunming mice were randomized into control group and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) group. After establishment of depressive models verified by sucrose preference test, the mice in CUMS group were divided into model group and vortioxetine group. The antidepressant effect of vortioxetine was analyzed by Y-maze test, forced swim test and open field test. The expressions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and TrkB were evaluated with Western blotting. Results Vortioxetine significantly shortened the immobility time of the depressive mice in forced swim test without affecting the locomotor activity of the mice in open fields, suggesting the antidepressant effect of against depression in mice. Vortioxetine significantly improved the depression-like behavior. Vortioxetine significantly increased the expression of BDNF in the hippocampus of the mice (p < 0.01). Conclusion Vortioxetine improves the behaviors of mice with depression possibly by affecting the BDNF/TrkB signal pathway.