Key words: major depressive disorder (or depression), treatment, stress, biomarkers, microRNAs, neuroscience

"Novel Insights into the Neurophysiological and Epigenetic Changes in Major Depressive Disorder"

Our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie an increased depression risk and how antidepressants exert their biological effects is limited. Identifying novel brain targets or systemic biomarkers can help gain further insight into the pathophysiology of depression and facilitate the development of innovative treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD). This research identified several molecules that are involved in stress-related behavior linked to depression. Specifically, it identified several molecules as brain targets that are linked to female MDD risk. The research also explored the potential use of circulating microRNAs as biomarkers for MDD, as well as for the prediction and assessment of ketamine response. To that end, the study identified a candidate miRNA that can aid depression diagnostics and potentially be used as a novel antidepressant treatment. To conclude, these studies enhance our understanding of molecular processes accruing in the brain and peripheral circulation in response to stress and antidepressants treatment.

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