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Abstract
Hippocampal neurogenesis can be regulated by extrinsic factors, such as exercise and
antidepressants. While there is evidence that the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
(SSRI) fluoxetine enhances neurogenesis, the new dual serotonergic-noradrenergic reuptake
inhibitor (SNRI) duloxetine has not been evaluated in this context. In addition, it
is unclear whether effects of antidepressants and running on cell genesis and behavior
are of similar magnitude in mice. Here, we assessed neurogenesis and open-field behavior
in 2-month-old female C57Bl/6 mice after 28days of treatment with either fluoxetine
(18mg/kg), duloxetine (2, 6 or 18mg/kg) or exercise. New cell survival, as measured
by 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-labeled cells, was enhanced by 200% in the running
group only. Both running and fluoxetine, but not duloxetine, increased the percentage
of new cells that became neurons. In the open-field test, animals treated with either
drug spent less time in the center than controls and runners. In addition, fluoxetine
treatment resulted in reduced locomotor activity. Together, these data show that the
neurogenic response to exercise is much stronger than to antidepressants and imply
a low likelihood that anxiolytic effects of these drugs are mediated by adult neurogenesis
in C57Bl/6 mice.
Published by Elsevier B.V.