To investigate central and peripheral TGF-β1 dysregulation and cognitive function in a rat model of fatigue induced by repetitive sleep deprivation.
Approach:
Key Findings:
Fatigued rats showed increased anxiety-like behavior and reduced spontaneous alternation rates in cognitive tests compared to controls.
Prefrontal cortical TGF-β1 levels were significantly elevated in fatigued rats.
No differences in peripheral or striatal TGF-β1 levels were observed between groups.
Interpretation:
The elevation of prefrontal TGF-β1 in conjunction with cognitive deficits suggests a potential role for central TGF-β1 signaling in the pathophysiology of mental fatigue.
Limitations:
The study is limited to a rat model and may not fully translate to human CFS.
The precise relationship between TGF-β1 levels and cognitive dysfunction remains unclear.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate that repetitive sleep deprivation can induce cognitive impairment and anxiety-like behavior, with a specific increase in prefrontal TGF-β1.