Microglia-Derived Interleukin-6 Triggers Astrocyte Apoptosis in the Hippocampus and Mediates Depression-Like Behavior.

ABSTRACT: In patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and animal models of depression, key pathological hallmarks include activation of microglia as well as atrophy and loss of astrocytes. Under certain pathological conditions, microglia can inflict damage to neurons and astrocytes. However, the precise mechanisms underlying how activated microglia induced astrocyte atrophy and loss remain enigmatic. In this study, a depression model induced by chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) is utilized. The results show that CSDS induces significant anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, along with notable astrocyte atrophy and apoptosis, microglial activation, and elevated levels of microglial interleukin-6 (IL-6). Subsequent studies demonstrate that IL-6 released from activated microglia promotes astro

SUBMITTER: Shen SY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11923973 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature