Vahab Erfani - Department of Psychology, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran
Kourosh Goodarzi - Department of Psychology, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran
Mohammadreza Ebrahimi - Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Mehdi Rouzbahani - Department of Psychology, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran

Abstract Introduction: In the present study, the effects of ultrasound, infrasound, and electroconvulsive stimulation on depression-like behavior was assessed in animal models. Method: For carrying out this study, ۶۰ male BALB/c mice (mean age of ۶۰ days, weight range of ۲۵ – ۳۰ g) were randomly selected. Depression was induced using reserpine ۰.۱ mg/kg i.p. for ۳۰ days.  They were allocated to three groups of experimental (ultrasound, infrasound, and electroconvulsive stimulation) and one group of control animals, each including ۱۵ mice. Experimental animals received ultra- or infrasound ۰.۵ hours or ۱ electroconvulsive pulse, daily for ۱۰ days. Finally the Forced Swim Test was carried out. Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the groups regarding the duration of immobility posture [F(۳,۵۴) = ۹۹.۵۴, P = ۰.۰۰۱]. Mean immobility time was significantly longer in the control group compared to the other groups. Also, immobility was significantly longer for electroconvulsive compared to the ultra- and infrasound groups. Group ultrasound showed longer immobility than group infrasound; however, the difference was not significant. Conclusion: Ultrasound and infrasound stimulations are capable of decreasing depression-like behavior in mice. The results of this study were also compatible with the application of electroconvulsive therapy. However, a more successful response can be exploited with ultra- and infrasound stimulations.

Keywords: Brain stimulation, depression, Electroconvulsive stimulation, Infrasound, Ultrasound