Nepetin attenuates sertraline-induced cardiac dysfunction by modulating notch signaling, oxidative stress, and inflammation: Echocardiographic and histological evidence

Abstract

Background

(STL) is an extensively used anti-depressant drug that has been reported to induce organ damage including cardiac impairments. Nepetin (NEP) is a naturally derived flavonoid which exhibits excellent biological as well as pharmacological properties.

Methodology

This research investigation explored the cardioprotective ability of NEP to counter STL induced cardiotoxicity in Sprague Dawley rats. Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats were categorized into control, STL (20 mg/kg), STL (20 mg/kg) + NEP (10 mg/kg), and NEP (10 mg/kg) alone treated group.

Results

NEP intoxication significantly suppressed the expression of Notch 1, JAG1, DDL4, HES1, and HEY2 while escalating the levels of ROS and MDA. Besides, STL administration increased intraventricular septal thickness during IVSd and IVSs, promoted the internal diameter of left ventricular as well as elevated ESV as while reducing PWs and PWd, LVEF, and LVFS in echocardiographic examination. The enzymatic activities of HO-1, SOD, GPx, GSR, GST, CAT, and contents of GSH were reduced while the levels of CPK, ProBNP, troponin-T, CK-MB, LDH, C-reactive protein, BNP, and troponin-I were promoted after STL intoxication. Moreover, the levels of COX-2, IL-6, TNF-α, NF- κB, and IL-1β were elevated after STL exposure. Histopathological analysis showed abnormal cardiac architecture following the administration of STL. Importantly, NEP therapy significantly conferred cardio-protection via regulating redox state, reactivating Notch signaling, suppressing inflammatory responses, and improving histopathological alterations. Moreover, echocardiographic parameters were also found normal after NEP supplementation. These findings highlight the cardioprotective role of NEP in mitigating anti-depressant drugs induced cardiotoxicity.

Conclusion

NEP confers cardio-protection against STL-induced cardiotoxicity via regulating oxidative stress, notch signaling, inflammation and cardiac function markers. These findings suggest this compound a promising therapy to mitigate anti-depressant drug-induced cardiac damage.