New research reveals that individuals with depression exhibit significantly higher levels of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) compared to healthy individuals. This suggests mtDNA could serve as a promising biomarker to improve depression diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Key facts: Meta-analysis of 12 studies with 1400 participants shows elevated mtDNA levels in blood and skin cells of depressed …
Stress can induce anxiety and depression, which appears to be mediated in part by stress-induced neuroinflammatory processes. The immunoregulatory bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae (M. vaccae) has anti-inflammatory and stress-resilient effects, but its impact on the brain is unclear. A study discovered that M. vaccae immunization: induces anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory processes in the hippocampus, blocks stress-induced neuroinflammation …
Allopregnanolone agonists represent a promising new class of medications for treating depressive disorders. Evidence suggests that allopregnanolone agonists exhibit rapid-onset of antidepressant action – particularly in women with postpartum depression (PPD). Key facts: Allopregnanolone is a neurosteroid that acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors and is decreased in depressive disorders. The allopregnanolone …
Depression is a growing public health concern, but nutrition may offer a pathway for prevention and treatment. A new research study identified the most nutrient-dense foods for brain health to inform dietary recommendations. Key Facts: 12 nutrients have evidence supporting a role in preventing and treating depression, including omega-3s, B vitamins, minerals like magnesium, and …
Researchers have proposed a novel eye tracking method to rapidly screen for depression risk in young adults. This intelligent approach analyzes emotional perception deficits through objective eye movement biomarkers. Initial findings suggest promise for large-scale, low-cost depression screening without specialized doctors. Key Facts: The “eye movement emotional perception evaluation paradigm” extracts digital biomarkers related to …
A new systematic review examining studies on vegetarian and vegan diets and depression risk has found conflicting evidence, with the quality of studies and reverse causality effects complicating interpretation of the data. Key Facts: 11 of 25 study outcomes linked vegetarian/vegan diets to higher depression risk. 7 of 25 outcomes found lower depression risk with …
A recent study has shed new light on the mental health implications of hormonal contraceptives, particularly focusing on the period known as the ‘pill pause.’ Research indicates that temporarily stopping synthetic hormone intake during this break can lead to increased negative emotions and anxiety among long-term contraceptive pill users. This finding challenges the conventional approach …