Expression of S100β protein in hippocampus of depression model rats

Objective: To study the mechanism of depression by investigating the expressional differences of S100β protein in rat hippocampus of moderate chronic unpredictable stress model of depression.Methods:Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into control group and stress group.Depression model was established by using chronic unpredictable mild stress stimulation combined with lonely raising for eight weeks.The expression of S100β protein in hippocampus was investigated with immunohistochemistry technique.Results:Compared to control group(145.6±10.0),the average gray value of S100β protein in hippocampus were increased in depression model group(120.6±14.3),with significant difference between them(P0.01).Conclusion:Chronic unpredictable mild stress stimulation can induce depression.The expression of S100β in rat hippocampus were increased and astrocytes may play an important role in pathogenesis of depression.