Coenzyme Q10 supplementation and fored treadmill exercise: A combined intervention to improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety-like behavior in a PTSD rat model

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the combined effects of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation and forced treadmill exercise on cognitive function and anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS: Adult male Wistar rats (n = 49) were randomly assigned to seven groups: sham, sham with exercise, sham with CoQ10, sham with CoQ10 and exercise, PTSD, PTSD with exercise, and PTSD with CoQ10 and exercise. PTSD was induced using the single prolonged stress (SPS) model. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed using elevated plus maze (EPM) and open field tests (OFT). Hippocampal BDNF levels, serum corticosterone, and SOD activity were measured. Expression of apoptosis-related genes ( Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3) and microRNAs (miR-124, miR-21, miR-208) were analyzed using RT-PCR. RESULTS: The PTSD with CoQ10 and exercise group showed significant improvements in EPM and OFT performance, indicating reduced anxiety-like behavior. This group also exhibited increased hippocampal BDNF levels, normalized corticosterone levels, and enhanced SOD activity. Gene expression analysis revealed a decreased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and upregulation of miR-124 in the PTSD with CoQ10 and exercise group. MiR-21 and miR-208 levels were also modulated, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits. CONCLUSION: The combination of CoQ10 supplementation and forced treadmill exercise significantly ameliorates anxiety-like behavior and cognitive deficits in a rat model of PTSD. This intervention appears to act through multiple mechanisms, including modulation of BDNF levels, oxidative stress reduction, and regulation of apoptotic pathways and microRNAs. These findings suggest a novel, multifaceted approach for PTSD treatment that warrants further investigation in clinical settings.