INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF FRUITS RICH IN ANTIOXIDANTS ON DEPRESSION CAUSED BY DEXAMETHASONE IN RATS

Objective: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a psychological disease with a growing global burden. Oxidative stress has been shown to be a causative mechanism of MDD. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of antioxidant-rich fruits (mango, carrots and watermelon) on oxidative stress markers in rats treated with Dexamethasone to induce depression. Method: Thirty (30) rats were grouped into 5: Group 1 (positive control), Group 2 (treated with 2.6 mg/kg body weight Dexamethasone only), Group 3 (treated with 2.6 mg/kg b.w. Dexamethasone and 10.53ml/kg b.w. of watermelon juice), Group 4 (treated with 2.6 mg/kg body weight Dexamethasone, and 10.53ml/kg b.w. of carrot and mango juice) and Group 5 (treated with Gingko Biloba). The lipid profile and C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined using blood samples. Brain homogenate was used to determine oxidative stress parameters SOD, GPx, GSH, MDA, and serotonin levels. Results: Results of the research showed a significant increase in HDL and a significant decrease in LDL, TAG and MDA levels in Group 4. A significant increase was observed in SOD and GSH levels in Group 3. Results also showed a significant decrease in CRP levels in Group 3 and Group 4. There was also a significant increase in serotonin levels in Group 3. Conclusion: The study showed that watermelon, carrot, and mango fruits alleviate oxidative stress parameters which may help reduce the effects of oxidative stress-induced depression in affected individuals.