Multi-omics exploration demonstrated the antidepressant effects of chrysophanol on diabetes-depression comorbidity rats via inflammatory, and neurodegenerative axes

Abstract

The escalating prevalence of diabetes-depression comorbidity (DDC) necessitates novel therapies targeting shared pathophysiological pathways, which needs to decipher the underlying molecular mechanisms. This study elucidates the therapeutic potential of chrysophanol, a natural anthraquinone, in streptozotocin (STZ) and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced DDC rat model. Behavioral assessments, biochemical profiling, and integrated multi-omics analyses (RNA-seq and proteomics) were employed to decipher underlying mechanisms. Successful model establishment was confirmed by prolonged immobility time in the tail suspension test (p < 0.01) and reduced general health scores. Chrysophanol treatment restored serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels (p < 0.01) and ameliorated dyslipidemia (total cholesterol: p < 0.05). RNA-seq results revealed that chrysophanol regulated expression of hundreds of genes, which were enriched in synaptic vesicle cycling (downregulation of Sh3gl2, Camk5), CNS myelination, and axonal ensheathment pathways. Proteomic profile demonstrated the suppression of neurodegenerative markers and activation of axonal regeneration pathways. Notably, chrysophanol downregulated synaptic proteins associated with leukocyte chemotaxis (Pla2g7, Mdk) and glutamatergic synapses (Itpr2, Slc1a1) while upregulated axonal development, regeneration, and PPARγ signaling proteins (Apoa4, Apoa1, Apod), suggesting anti-inflammatory effects and disease-modifying potential through synaptic/axonal regulation. Integrated multi-omics identified overlapping targets linked to neuronal repair (Ankrd27) and iron metabolism (Fth1). These findings suggest chrysophanol as a multitarget agent alleviating DDC via synergistic restoration of neuroplasticity, suppression of neuroinflammation, and rebalancing of metabolic homeostasis, implying a mechanistic foundation for developing chrysophanol-based therapies of diabetes-associated neuropsychiatric disorders.