Comparative neuroprotective and exercise capacity effects of prophylactic intermittent fasting and probiotics in sleep-deprived rats: insights into anti-inflammatory marker modulation and CLOCK gene regulation

BackgroundProphylactic probiotics and intermittent fasting (IF) substantially modulate the neuropsychological functions and exercise capacity in rats subjected to sleep deprivation (SD). A comparative study was conducted to analyze the effects of probiotics and IF on SD-induced neuropsychological disturbances and compromised muscle endurance.MethodsForty albino Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups. The NSD group was maintained on a standard chow diet for 12 weeks. The SD group follo