Expression of genes encoding cytokines and corticotropin releasing factor are altered by citalopram in the hypothalamus of post-stroke depression rats.

Objectives: To establish a rat model of post-stroke depression (PSD), and examine expression of genes encoding corticotropin releasing factor (CRF), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the hypothalamus of PSD rats.

Methods: Rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and chronic mild unpredictable stress (CUMS). Open field test and sucrose preference were used to examine depressive-like behaviors.