Stress and depression can shrink the brain – Part 3
Tuesday, September 11th, 2012 11:11:01 by Fouad Ashraf
The research team analyzed tissue donated by depressed and nondepressed patients, and sought different patterns of gene activation. The study found that the brains of patients who had been depressed exhibited lower levels of expression
of the genes required for the function and structure of brain synapses.
of the genes required for the function and structure of brain synapses.
Co-author HJ Kang found that at least five of these genes may be regulated by a single transcription factor called GATA1. When the transcription factor was activated, rodents showed depressive symptoms, suggesting that GATA1 plays
a role, not only in the loss of connections between neurons, but also in the symptoms of depression.
a role, not only in the loss of connections between neurons, but also in the symptoms of depression.
Duman believes that genetic variations in GATA1 may someday help identify people at high risk for major depression, or stress sensitivity. "We hope that, by enhancing synaptic connections with either new drugs or psychotherapy,
we can develop more effective antidepressant therapies," concludes Duman.
Tags: Depression, in-cell technology, Science, Stress
we can develop more effective antidepressant therapies," concludes Duman.
Short URL: https://www.newspakistan.pk/?p=32484
Posted by Fouad Ashraf
on Sep 11 2012. Filed under World.
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