Homocysteine-Induced Disturbances in DNA Methylation Contribute to Development of Stress-Associated Cognitive Decline in Rats.

ABSTRACT: Chronic stress is generally accepted as the main risk factor in the development of cognitive decline; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Previous data have demonstrated that the levels of homocysteine (Hcy) are significantly elevated in the plasma of stressed animals, which suggests that Hcy is associated with stress and cognitive decline. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed the cognitive function, plasma concentrations of Hcy, and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) levels in rats undergoing chronic unpredicted mild stress (CUMS). The results showed that decreased cognitive behavioral performance and decreased BDNF transcription and protein expression were correlated with hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) levels in stressed rats. Diet-induced HHcy mimicked the cognitive dec

SUBMITTER: Wang SD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9352847 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature