Impact of social isolation on stress, neuroinflammation, endocrine dysregulation, and antioxidant defense in mice exposed to rotational shiftwork/jetlag

Isolated male AKR mice exhibited significant behavioral impairments, particularly under phase advances of the light-dark cycle.

• Behavioral analyses indicated isolated mice showed increased signs of anhedonia and anxiety-like behavior.
• Maximal behavioral impairment occurred during phase advances of the light-dark cycle.
• Chronic circadian misalignment and social isolation were associated with elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in several brain regions and serum.
• Melatonin levels were significantly reduced, while corticosterone levels were elevated in isolated mice.
• Antioxidant enzyme activity was decreased, suggesting an oxidative imbalance linked to these stressors.
• Findings indicate that both circadian disruption and social isolation may independently contribute to neuroendocrine stress and inflammation.

AI simplified