A novel role of NK3 receptor signaling in bipolar disorder

Abstract

Objective: Bipolar disorder (BD) affects more than 1% of the global population with limited therapeutic options. The neurokinin B (NKB)-neurokinin B receptor (NK3R) is involved in a variety of emotional activities. This study explored the role of NK3 receptor signaling in bipolar disorder.Materials and methods: In this study, a model of intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of OUA-induced BD was used to investigate the possible role of NK3R signaling in BD. The involvement of NK3R in the expression of OUA-induced BD was assessed by genetically knocking down the NK3R-encoding TACR3 gene with shRNA approach in the hippocampus and systemic administration of a NK3R antagonist ESN364,. Biochemical techniques were used to examine the NK3R-associated signaling changes and the oxidative stress parameters in the hippocampus of BD rats.Result: The NK3R expression level was elevated in the hippocampus BD rats. Both TACR3 knockdown in the hippocampus and ESN364 treatment reversed the manic-like and depression-like behaviors in BD rats Inhibition of the NK3R signaling reversed oxidative stress-induced damage via upregulating the BDNF signaling pathway in the hippocampus.Conclusion: These results demonstrated that NK3R signaling plays a key role in the pathogenesis of BD and that pharmacological antagonist of NK3R such as ESN364 could represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the management of BD.