Background
Chronic heart failure (CHF) impairs cognitive function, yet its effects on brain structure and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. This study aims to explore the mechanisms behind cognitive impairment.
Conclusions
Neuroinflammation worsens CHF-related cognitive impairment through neuroplasticity disorder, tied to intestinal flora dysbiosis. PDE4 emerges as a potential therapeutic target. These findings provide insightful perspectives on the heart-gut-brain axis.
Methods
CHF models in rats were induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Cardiac function was analyzed by cardiac ultrasound and hemodynamics. ELISA, immunofluorescence, Western blot, Golgi staining and transmission electron microscopy were performed on hippocampal tissues. The alterations of intestinal flora under the morbid state were investigated via 16S rRNA sequencing. The connection between neuroinflammation and synapses is confirmed by a co-culture system of BV2 microglia and HT22 cells in vitro.
Results
CHF rats exhibited deteriorated cognitive behaviors. CHF induced neuronal structural disruption, loss of Nissl bodies, and synaptic damage, exhibiting alterations in multiple parameters. CHF rats showed increased hippocampal levels of inflammatory cytokines and activated microglia and astrocytes. Furthermore, the study highlights dysregulated PDE4-dependent cAMP signaling and intestinal flora dysbiosis, closely associated with neuroinflammation, and altered synaptic proteins. In vitro, microglial neuroinflammation impaired synaptic plasticity via PDE4-dependent cAMP signaling. Conclusions: Neuroinflammation worsens CHF-related cognitive impairment through neuroplasticity disorder, tied to intestinal flora dysbiosis. PDE4 emerges as a potential therapeutic target. These findings provide insightful perspectives on the heart-gut-brain axis.