Genetic Trigger of depression

Researchers from Yale University have identified a gene that may contribute to the onset of depression and a target for new antidepressants. When a person suffers from depression, this new found gene appears to block the pathway neural pathways.

After testing 21 deceased individuals diagnosed with depression 18 had the gene MKP-1 more abundant in the brain tissues. The gene inactivates a molecular pathway crucial to survival and function of neurons and other disorders. More interestingly after they were able to knock out the gene in mice, the mice were more resilient to stress and if gene was activated they would mimic symptoms of depression. The interesting fact about curing depression, a rather common mental disorder is that it has so many symptoms and differs among individuals. The most commonly used antidepressant works to inhibit the uptake of serotonin. By narrowing down the cause of depression, we scientists present a more precise method of treatment without the possible side effects.

Depression is a rather interesting topic because as of a few years ago it wasn’t completely understood, and treatment was difficult. Defining such an ‘emotional’ and dilapidating disorder due to a chemical imbalance was amazing and the ability to actually pinpoint and possibly silence the gene that causes it might just make for the creation stress resilient humans.

Christine Otieno

Source: http://www.neurointerests.com/?p=481