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Can Lifestyle Factors Modify Risk of Psychiatric Disorders? (2024 Study)

Psychiatric disorders have increasingly become a significant public health concern, affecting a growing number of people globally. A study in focus utilized MR (Mendelian randomization), a method that leverages genetic data to explore causal relationships, to analyze the impact of 45 lifestyle factors on 13 psychiatric disorders. This extensive research involved GWAS summary statistics from …

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Genetics & Depression: How Polygenic Risk Scores Predict Mood Over Long-Term (2024 Study)

A recent study examined how our genetic makeup influences our temperament traits, particularly in relation to depression. By analyzing the polygenic risk for depression (PRS) and its correlation with various temperament traits over time, this research provides significant insights into the complex interplay between genetics and mood. Highlights: High PRS Linked to Increased Persistence: Individuals …

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Combo of Neuroimaging, Transcriptome, Epigenetics to Understand Gray Matter Abnormalities in Major Depression (2024 Study)

Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects millions worldwide, yet its underlying causes remain largely enigmatic. A new study integrated neuroimaging, transcriptomic, and epigenetic data to better understand the genetic underpinnings of MDD. This comprehensive approach revealed a complex interplay between brain structure, gene expression, and DNA methylation, offering new insights into this debilitating condition. Highlights: Integrative …

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Biomarkers in Major Depression: Interleukin-33 (IL-33) & Mesencephalic Astrocyte-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (MANF) (2024 Study)

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex mental health condition that significantly impacts individuals’ lives globally. A recent study evaluates the biological underpinnings of this disorder, focusing on two specific biomarkers: interleukin-33 (IL-33) and mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF). These findings could pave the way for new diagnostic and treatment strategies. Highlights: Major depressive disorder …

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Comparison of Brexipiprazole vs. Aripiprazole for Treatment-Resistant Depression (2024 Study)

Antidepressant-resistant major depressive disorder (AR-MDD) poses significant challenges in psychiatric treatment. Antipsychotics like aripiprazole (ARI) and brexpiprazole (BRE) have emerged as effective adjunct therapies that may be more tolerable than older antipsychotics. Highlights: Both Brexipiprazole and Aripiprazole demonstrated better efficacy than placebo in treating AR-MDD in Japanese patients. Brexipiprazole showed a higher discontinuation rate due …

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Analyzing Brain Connectivity with Advanced Neuroimaging to Treat Major Depression (2023 Research)

Depression, a leading cause of disability globally, presents a myriad of treatment challenges. Recent advancements in neuroimaging, particularly in understanding brain connectivity, offer a new lens through which we can view and potentially enhance the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Highlights: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) affects millions worldwide, with traditional treatments showing varied success …

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Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT) for Rapid Treatment of Suicidal Depression (2023 Study)

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a critical public health issue, particularly due to the high risk of suicide associated with it. Traditional treatments often take weeks to show effects and sometimes increase suicide risk in the early phases of therapy. However, a new approach, the Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT), is showing promise in …

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