Camellia nitidissima Chi extract promotes adult hippocampal neurogenesis and attenuates chronic corticosterone-induced depressive behaviours through regulating Akt/GSK3β/CREB signaling pathway

Hormonal imbalance causes depressive behaviours in chronic mental disorders. The use of natural products to relieve symptoms is getting attention due its minimal side effects and multiple health benefits. present study aims test the hypothesis that Camellia nitidissima Chi leave extract (CNC) could have antidepressant whose underlying mechanisms be related promote hippocampal neurogenesis. Firstly, we conducted quality control identified 17 active compounds CNC extract. Then, performed a series behaviour tests evaluate corticosterone (CORT)-induced mouse model. significantly ameliorated CORT-induced behaviours, were similar sertraline. Interestingly, decreased levels CORT ACTH plasma increased 5-HT hippocampus. promoted adult neurogenesis CORT-treated mice vivo. neurogenic also confirmed primary cultured neurons hESCs with challenge vitro. Furthermore, enhanced phosphorylation Akt, GSK3β CREB hippocampus vivo as well PC12 cells Co-treatment wortmannin abolished CNC. Taken together, an effective functional food stimulate for anti-depressant treatment. regulating hypothalamic–pituitaryadrenal axis activating Akt/GSK3β/CREB signaling pathway.