Source Paper
Electroacupuncture promotes BDNF-dependent neurogenesis via microglial reprogramming in a chronic stress model
Zhang L, Wei T, Liu X, Zhang L, Wang D et al.
Chin Med • 2026
Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress
Objective: To induce behavioral and neurobiological deficits mimicking depression through chronic unpredictable mild stress
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Equipment4
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Protocol Steps
Environmental conditioning
House mice under controlled environmental conditions with standardized photoperiod
View evidence from paper
“controlled environmental conditions (22–24 °C, 45–55% humidity) with ad libitum access to standard chow”
CUMS induction phase
Administer 1-2 randomized stressors per day from the stress protocol
View evidence from paper
“During the 3-week induction phase, mice received 1–2 randomized stressors per day”
Daily stressor administration
Apply randomized daily stressors including: 24-h continuous light exposure, 12-h water/food restriction, 45° cage inclination for 12 h, 4-h confinement in ventilated tubes, 5-min exposure to 45°C ambient heat or forced swimming in 0°C water
View evidence from paper
“24-h continuous light exposure; 12-h water/food restriction; 45° cage inclination for 12 h; 4-h confinement in ventilated tubes”
CUMS intervention phase
Continue with single daily stressor concurrent with treatments
View evidence from paper
“In the subsequent 3-week intervention phase, a single daily stressor was maintained, concurrent with EA or drug treatment”
Behavioral assessment timing
Schedule behavioral tests at least 24 hours after last stressor to avoid measuring acute stress responses
View evidence from paper
“the behavioral assay was scheduled at least 24 h after the last stressor to avoid measuring acute stress responses”