Effect of Shuyusan on Behavior and Concentrations of Neurotransmitters in Chronic Stress Depression Rats

Objective To investigate the effect of Shuyusan on the behavior of chronic stress induced depression model rats, as well as concentrations changes of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in cerebral cortex. Method Fifty mice were randomly divided into 5 groups:normal control group, model group, amitriptyline group, and high/low dose prescription group of Shuyusan. Except normal group, the other groups were given the chronic mild unpredicted stress for 21 days. After 21 days different stimulation, open-Field test was used to estimate the behavior of rats, the concentrations of NE, DA and 5-HT were detected with fluorescence spectrometer method. Results Horizontal and vertical motion of the model group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P0.05). Compared with model group, the motion in the Shuyusan large dosage group and amitriptyline group was significantly higher (P 0.05). The contents of NE and DA were significant reduced in depression model group, Shuyusan high dosge group increased NE and DA contents compared with the model group (P 0.05). Conclusion Shuyusan can improve the behavior of chronic stress induced depression model rats, increase NE and DA contents of cerebral cortex. The effect has positive relation with the dosage.