NUST Institutions Library Catalogue

Depression is a complex psychological disorder that is also often link to the hormonal
imbalances. Our research delves into the intricate relationship between depression and
atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP), considering the multifaceted influences of neurological,
genetic, and environmental factors. With a focus on hormonal imbalances as key
contributors to depression, our investigation explores the potential therapeutic effects of
Levothyroxine (LT4) in the context of ANP. Utilizing an early weaning mouse model
involving maternal separation, we conducted a detailed examination of the anxiolytic
effects of LT4, aiming to evaluate its efficacy in alleviating symptoms associated with
anxiety and depression. Behavioral assessments and histological analyses were employed
to comprehensively evaluate the impact of LT4 on ANP. This study also extends to
molecular investigations using RT-PCR to analyze the distribution and expression of ANP
within the mouse central nervous system, highlighting the cortex region. Our findings
reveal significant differences in brain expression levels of ANP between treated mice and
those exhibiting depressive symptoms. This insight suggests potential therapeutic
applications of ANP for mitigating depression, presenting intriguing avenues for further
research, particularly in the context of depression-induced mouse models through parental
separation. This research contributes to an enriched understanding of the complex factors
influencing depression and proposes interventions that extend beyond conventional
approaches. The integration of behavioral assessments, histological analyses, and
molecular investigations offers a holistic perspective, laying the groundwork for future
exploration in the critical realm of mental health research.