Effect of coenzyme Q10 on depression paradigms in male Wistar rats and Swiss albino mice

Abstract

Background: Depression is a major public health concern. Inflammation and oxidative stress have emerged as major contributors to the neuroprogression of depression. There is evidence that there are reduced antioxidant (AOX) defenses in depression. Hence, this study is aimed at evaluating the antidepressant activity of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) which is an AOX. Aims and Objective: The aim and objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of CoQ10 on depression using behavioral models of depression namely forced swim test (FST) in male Wistar rats and tail suspension test (TST) in male Swiss albino mice. Materials and Methods: The antidepressant activity of CoQ10 was evaluated using two behavioral models of depression namely FST and TST in male Wistar rats and male Swiss albino mice, respectively. The standard antidepressant used was amitriptyline. Results: There was statistically significant difference in the duration of immobility with amitriptyline and CoQ10 treated groups, when compared to that of control group in both behavioral models of depression. It was also found that there was no statistically significant difference between amitriptyline and CoQ10, indicating comparable antidepressant activity. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that, CoQ10 has significant antidepressant activity. Taking into consideration the fact that, inflammation and oxidative stress have a major role to play in the pathophysiology of depression, CoQ10 appears to be a promising agent for the treatment of depression.