Remnant cholesterol (RC), also known as triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, has been gaining increasing attention in recent years due to evidence linking it to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and other conditions. A new study suggests that elevated levels of remnant cholesterol in the blood may be associated with an increased risk of depression. Key Facts: …
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) aims to modify the gut microbiome and holds promise as a new treatment approach for major depressive disorder (MDD). Early case studies report improvements in depressive symptoms following fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), but larger controlled trials are needed to substantiate its efficacy. Key Facts: Two patients with long-standing major depression received …
Advanced analysis of multidimensional EEG data reveals significant differences in brain activity patterns between Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Depressive Disorder (DD). The distinguishing factors seem to be differences in beta brain waves and functional connectivity between various brain regions. Key Facts: Patients with DD exhibited higher power spectrum density (PSD) values and fuzzy entropy …
A new study provides promising evidence that delivering transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) remotely in people’s homes could be an effective treatment approach for major depressive disorder. The key facts are: tDCS is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation that uses electrical currents to modulate activity in targeted brain regions. When applied to the left …
New research suggests a U-shaped relationship between dietary niacin and depression risk, with the lowest risk around 36 mg/day. Key Facts: Moderate niacin intake was associated with a 24-32% lower odds of depression compared to the lowest intake. The relationship was U-shaped – higher and lower intakes were associated with higher depression risk. 36 mg/day …
The extreme environment of spaceflight induces a myriad of stresses on astronauts – and these stresses may negatively impact mental health, neuroplasticity, and cognitive abilities. New research offers insight into the neurological mechanisms underlying these effects. Key Facts: Prolonged spaceflight can lead to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline in astronauts. The composite stresses of the …
Researchers have uncovered a critical role for the metabolic enzyme acetyl-CoA synthetase short-chain family member 2 (ACSS2) in depression, identifying it as a novel target for rapid-acting and long-lasting antidepressant therapies. Findings show ACSS2 regulates both brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels to improve synaptic plasticity and serotonin synthesis through tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) to mediate …