Integrative fMRI and multiomics reveal neuroprotective mechanisms of Astragalus membranaceus in sleep deprivation-induced depression

Abstract

Background

Sleep deprivation (SD) is a significant public health concern and a risk factor for neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression. SD disrupts the gut–brain axis, causing dysbiosis and neuroinflammation. Astragalus membranaceus (AST) exhibits antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties, including modulation of the gut microbiota; however, its neuroprotective effects on SD-induced neuropsychiatric disturbances remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the potential of AST using an innovative integrative multiomics approach.

Purpose

This study was conducted to investigate the neuroprotective effects of AST against SD-induced depression-like behavior and to explore the mechanism underlying its regulatory effects on the gut–brain axis.

Methods

We established a chronic SD mouse model that was subjected to AST intervention and employed a pioneering integrative multiomics approach—combining resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging for brain function, metagenomics for microbiota profiling, metabolomics for metabolic alterations, and transcriptomics for gene expression in key brain regions. Behavioral tests and cytokine assays complemented these analyses to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutic effects of AST.

Results

SD induced depression-like behavior, neuroinflammation (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α secretion), gut dysbiosis (Proteobacteria expansion, loss of beneficial microbes), and disrupted metabolic pathways. AST alleviated behavioral deficits, normalized brain connectivity, and reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines. It also reshaped microbiota, enriching Muribaculum and Butyricicoccus, and restored metabolic profiles, increasing the levels of short-chain fatty acids and promoting bile acid pathways. Integrated analysis linked microbiota restoration to reduced neuroinflammation and improved neuroprotection.

Conclusion

AST modulates the gut–brain axis to counteract SD-induced dysbiosis, neuroinflammation, and metabolic imbalance, alleviating depression-like symptoms. These findings offer novel mechanistic insights into the therapeutic potential of AST for SD-related neuropsychiatric conditions.