ABSTRACT
The neurovascular unit (NVU) is a dynamic functional module composed of neurons,microglia,blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the extracellular matrix that maintains the integrity of brain tissues.The chief members of NVU are one of the structural bases of the development of nervous system diseases.And they are involved in the pathological process of depression.The NVU instability of depression is characterized by the uncoupling of nerve and blood vessels,the increase of BBB permeability and the inflammatory response.Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has many advantages in the treatment of depression,and the effect of Kai-Xin Jie-Yu (KXJY) decoction in treating depression is remarkable.The purpose of this study was to explain the effect of KXJY decoction on NVU in terms of the functional connectivity of brain white matter,the protection of neurons and glial cells,the protection of vascular endothelial cells,the repair of BBB and the reduction of inflammation.It provided a new theoretical basis and method for the treatment of depression in TCM.