TAK-653 Reverses Core Depressive Symptoms in Chronic Stress-Induced Monkey Model

TL;DR

TAK-653, a new drug, reduces depression-like symptoms in stressed monkeys, suggesting potential for treating depression in humans.

Contribution

Demonstrates TAK-653's antidepressant effects in a nonhuman primate model of depression.

Findings

TAK-653 improved motivation, movement, and enclosure positioning in stressed monkeys.

TAK-653 reduced cortisol, IL-6, and increased BDNF levels in plasma.

Stress-induced monkeys showed depression-like behaviors confirmed by behavioral and plasma markers.

Abstract

Background: Major Depressive Disorder represents a prevalent and critical mental health issue that highlights the pressing need for innovative therapeutic solutions. Recent research has identified dysfunction within the glutamate system as a crucial element influencing both the onset and management of depressive symptoms. Although TAK-653 is a new positive allosteric modulator of AMPA receptors, its effects have not been rigorously examined in models of depression in primates. Methods: To assess its potential antidepressant properties, a chronic unpredictable mild stress protocol was implemented over 12 weeks to create a monkey model of depression, followed by a two-week treatment period with TAK-653. Results: Behavioral evaluations showed that following stress exposure, the monkeys exhibited reduced motivation for food, increased huddling, diminished movement, and a tendency to remain at the lower levels of their enclosure. They also displayed heightened anxiety in response to external stimuli. Plasma analyses indicated higher levels of cortisol, IL-6, and IL-8 in the stressed monkeys compared to baseline readings, confirming the efficacy of the stress-inducing protocol. Post-treatment with TAK-653 resulted in significant improvements, such as enhanced motivation for food, less huddling behavior, greater activity, and a move towards the upper areas of the enclosure. Additionally, the plasma analysis revealed a marked decrease in cortisol and IL-6 levels, along with an increased expression of BDNF. Conclusions: These findings indicate that TAK-653 effectively alleviates depression-like behaviors in nonhuman primate models, thereby paving the way for a promising new strategy in the treatment of depression.

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