Expression of m6A-modified methyltransferase-like 14 in the hippocampus of depression-like mice

Objective To investigate the expression of m6A methyltransferase-like protein 14(METTL14) in the hippocampus of depression-like mice, and to provide a theoretical basis for further study of the molecular mechanism of depression and new drug targets. Methods 1)Twenty-four male C57BL/6J mice were divided into control group and depression model group. The control group was fed normally, and the model group was kept in single animal cage for 4 months and added with Chronic Unpredictable Animal Stress (CUMS) to establish the depression-like model. 2)After modeling, depression-like behaviors in model group were tested using forced swimming test (FST), sucrose preference test (SPT)and tail suspension test (TST).3)Twenty-four hours after completion of behavioral test, the hippocampus tissues of mice were collected, and the expression of m6A methyltransferase-like protein METTL14 in the hippocampus of mice was detected by molecular biology experiments. Results 1)The mice in the model group showed significant depression-like behavior; 2)The expression of METTL14 in the hippocampus of the model group showed an increased mRNA expression with the increased m6A modification. 3)In the model group, the expression of METTL14 in hippocampal CA1, CA3 and DG districts increased and there was neuronal damage found. Conclusions m6A methylation function has been proved to be more active in the hippocampus of depressed mice.