Study of C57 mice depression model induced by chronic stress and separation

Abstract

Objective To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of C57 mice depression model established by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and separation. Methods 30 male C57 mice were randomly divided into three groups: CUMS + separation group (group CS), CUMS + separation + fluoxetine group (group CSF), and control group (group C). The mice of group CS and group CSF were fed with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and separation for 3 weeks. Then, the mice of group CSF were given fluoxetine. To record the food intake/ body weight, liquid consumption and field test of the mice at relevant time point. Results Compared with control group, the food intake/ body weight, total route in the field test, and the sucrose solution consumption in liquid consumption test of group CS and group CSF decreased significantly (P<0.05) at the 21th days. But after giving fluoxetine for 14 days, group CSF had no significant differences with group C except sucrose solution consumption. Although the difference of sucrose solution preferences was significant compared with control group(P<0.05), it was improved significantly compared with CS group (P<0.05). Conclusion The C57 mice depression model established by CUMS and separation are feasible and effective, and it is the ideal animal model of depression. Key words: C57 mice; Chronic unpredictable mild stress; Separation; Depression