Partial ablation of microglial cells on hippocampus does not prevent depressive- and anxiety-like behaviours in BALB/c mice submitted to unpredictable chronic mild stress

Depressive disorders are pervasive and debilitating conditions that affect millions of individuals worldwide, causing significant social and economical burdens. One of the most widely used preclinical models of depression is the paradigm of unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS). This model has been shown to replicate many of the key features of depression, including anhedonia and learned helplessness. Recent studies have highlighted the potential involvement of microglia in the pathogenesis of depressive disorders. Microglia are specialized cells responsible for monitoring and controlling neural homeostasis. Thus, investigating the role of microglia in depression may provide valuable insights into the disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.