Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, particularly amongst adolescents. While many teens with depression benefit from psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), up to one in four adolescents will still suffer with depressive symptoms following these interventions. Therefore, researchers have sought to identify characteristics, or markers, which can predict an individual’s response to […]
Major depressive disorder related to altered expression of immune genes
While depression has long been associated with social factors, such as bereavement or trauma, scientists are beginning to unravel the role of our body’s defence system in this debilitating condition. As we reported previously, peripheral markers of the immune response, broadly termed ‘pro-inflammatory cytokines,’ have been found in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), as […]
Immunopsychiatry offers insights into treatment of depression and psychosis
When we think of the immune system, we typically envision a system devoted to protecting our bodies from disease. This system innately responds to pathogens with first-line defense mechanisms, such as chemical barriers or inflammation. Over time, a healthy immune system will adapt to pathogens and activate a more specific response to each one, which […]
Cognitive impairment in depression: Are our treatments missing an important target?
Depression is characterised by an overarching, persistent low mood. A great deal of research into the treatment of depression has therefore predominantly focused on understanding and elevating this debilitating symptom. However, it may be surprising to some that this disorder actually encompasses a constellation of symptoms relating to appetite, sleep, cognitive functions and self-esteem. Researchers […]