Title : Modulation of neuroinflammatory pathways and oxidative stress by rhododendron arboreum extract in stress-induced postpartum depression
Abstract:
Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder frequently precipitated by chronic stress, with its pathophysiology involving the kynurenine pathway, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Conventional antidepressants often exhibit limited efficacy and are associated with adverse effects, underscoring the necessity for safer, plant-based alternatives. This study sought to examine the neuroprotective effects of Rhododendron Arboreum Organic Extract (RAOE) in rodent models of PPD induced by Chronic Social Stress (CSS) and Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress (UCMS), with a focus on its influence on neuroinflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and behavioural outcomes. Postpartum female rats were subjected to UCMS and CSS protocols, followed by oral administration of RAOE. Behavioural assessments, including the sucrose preference test, milk intake measurement, maternal care observation, and maternal aggression assessment, were conducted. Biochemical markers related to oxidative stress and inflammation were measured, alongside evaluations of cell viability and the kynurenine pathway. Histological and toxicity analyses were performed to support safety profiling. RAOE significantly enhanced behavioural performance by improving maternal care, milk intake, and sucrose preference, while reducing maternal aggression. The extract demonstrated potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, suppressed neuroinflammatory markers, and modulated kynurenine pathway metabolites. In vitro analysis confirmed cell viability and neuroprotective potential. Toxicological studies indicated safety at high doses (LD₅₀ > 2000 mg/kg). RAOE exhibits promising antidepressant-like and neuroprotective effects in stress-induced models of PPD, likely through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and kynurenine pathway-modulating actions. These findings support its potential as a plant-based intervention for postpartum depression, warranting further mechanistic and clinical investigations.
Keywords: Postpartum Depression, Kynurenine Pathway, Neuroinflammation, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Cell Viability, Maternal Behaviour, Milk Intake, Sucrose Preference, Maternal Aggression.
