Neuroprotective Effects of Edaravone Dexborneol in a Rat Model of Post-Stroke Depression

Post-stroke depression (PSD), a common stroke complication, negatively impacts physical function, cognition, and quality of life. Edaravone dexborneol (ED), a combination agent, helps alleviate ischemia-induced damage to neuro-motor and cognitive functions. This study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of ED in a rat model of PSD. The PSD model was established via filament inserting through the internal carotid artery and chronic unpredictable mild stress stimulation. After the model was established, ED treatment was given for 14 days (i.p. at a dose of 3mg/kg). Subsequently, the therapeutic effects of ED on behavioral parameters and inflammatory biomarkers in the PSD rats were analyzed. ED has a tendency to increase the percentage of sucrose preference in PSD rats. ED could significantly shorten the forced swimming time of PSD rats (P < 0.05). ED significantly increased the level of 5-hydroxytryptamine in the brain tissue of PSD rats (P < 0.05) and reduced the expression of inflammatory markers interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (P < 0.05). ED demonstrates potential therapeutic efficacy in mitigating depressive-like behaviors in a PSD rat model, reducing neuroinflammation, minimizing brain tissue damage, and conferring neuroprotective benefits.