We investigated the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on anxiety and other health aspects following long-term antibiotic treatment using an azithromycin mouse model. In our research, we divided thirty specific-pathogen-free BALB/c mice into three distinct groups: a control group, a group recovering naturally from azithromycin treatment, and a group receiving DHA.
Using various methods, including high-throughput sequencing and biochemical analysis, we explored how DHA influenced lipid metabolism and anxiety levels in these mice. Through our observations, we noted that prolonged exposure to azithromycin resulted in dyslipidemia and anxiety-like behaviors. Remarkably, DHA treatment significantly improved these anxiety-related symptoms, suggesting potential benefits in managing acute anxiety following antibiotic use.
While DHA did not alter the overall structure of the gut microbiome or bile acids content, it did enhance the levels of a crucial enzyme related to fat metabolism and normalized the expression of other key enzymes linked to lipid processing. This shows that DHA may support overall emotional well-being after antibiotic-induced imbalances, even if it doesn't change the gut microbiome dramatically.
Overall, our findings underscore DHA's promising effects in improving anxiety levels associated with antibiotic treatment, highlighting its potential as a supportive therapeutic approach for individuals experiencing similar health concerns.