Evaluation of the Effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum Probiotic on Depression-Related Behaviors in Oophorectomized Animal Models: The Role of the Gut-Brain Axis in Improving Postmenopausal Symptoms

Nikjoo, Mahsa; Siadat, Seyed Davar

doi:10.22034/ibhf.2024.485023.1014

Evaluation of the Effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum Probiotic on Depression-Related Behaviors in Oophorectomized Animal Models: The Role of the Gut-Brain Axis in Improving Postmenopausal Symptoms

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

mahsa nikjoo

seyed davar siadat

Department of Mycobacteriology and Pulmonary Research, Microbiology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/ibhf.2024.485023.1014

Abstract

Menopause and oophorectomy, characterized by reduced estrogen levels, lead to various physical and psychological changes, including an increased risk of depression. The gut-brain axis plays a pivotal role in regulating mood and mental behaviors, with gut microbiota being a key factor in this process. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Bifidobacterium bifidum probiotic on depression-related behaviors in oophorectomized animal models. In this experiment, 30 female Wistar rats were divided into three groups: surgical control, oophorectomized receiving phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and oophorectomized receiving Bifidobacterium bifidum. After oophorectomy, the rats were administered either the probiotic or PBS for 5 weeks. Depression-related behaviors were assessed using the forced swim test. The results showed that the PBS group spent significantly more time in immobility, while the probiotic group demonstrated a marked reduction in immobility time, suggesting improvement in depressive behaviors. These findings indicate that Bifidobacterium bifidum may exert protective effects against estrogen-deficiency-induced depression through the gut-brain axis.

Keywords

Menopause

Depression

Oophorectomy

Probiotics

Gut-brain axis

Bifidobacterium bifidum

Subjects