Probiotics efficiently counteract inflammation and depression-like behaviors induced by Ochratoxin-A

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a widespread mycotoxin. In this study we examined the role of theaqueous extract of probiotic treating of the depression-like behaviors and inflammationinduced by Ochratoxin using animal model of behavioral tests by ۱۴-day treatment ofOTA in mice. Markers of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde (MDA), andglutathione (GSH), CAT and SOD activity and as well as pro-inflammatory cytokineinterleukin ۶ (IL-۶), TNF-α, Nrf۲ pathway (Keap۱, TLR۴, and NF-κB) were alsoevaluated.The results revealed that OTA significantly impairs depression-like behaviors andinflammations. Administration of OTA increased the contents of IL-۶, TNF-α, MDA,CAT, reduced SOD and the GSH content. The probiotic (۲ × ۱۱۸ CFU/mL) significantlyalleviated neurobehavioral impairments, oxidative damage, inflammatory cytokines BDNFand CREB protein and transcript levels compared to OTA.In conclusion, it is suggested that the neuroprotective effects of probiotic might be due toantioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.