Pharmacological and biochemical evidence for the antidepressant effect of the herbal preparation Trans-01

Abstract

In this study, Trans-01, a polyherbal formulation, was explored for its antidepressant properties, using the forced swim test (FST), tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming stress (FSS)-induced alterations in serum corticosterone levels. For this purpose, the effect different doses of Trans-01 (25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg; PO) were studied. Trans-01 was found to safe up to a dose of 5000 mg/kg since no mortality was observed within 48 h of administration. In TST, Trans-01 showed a dose-dependent decrease in immobility time, which is an indication of its antidepressant effect; this finding was further reinforced in the FST, where a significant effect on immobility was witnessed. However, to explore the possible mechanism of action of Trans-01, the FSS was used to induce corticosterone levels; Trans-01 significantly attenuated the elevated corticosteroid levels. A locomotor activity test was carried out to ascertain whether the antidepressant effect of Trans-01 included general body stimulation. These results indicate that Trans-01 can be a potential candidate for managing depression. However further studies are required to substantiate the same which are underway in our lab.