Neurobiology of Depression

Neurobiology of Depression: Road to Novel Therapeutics synthesizes the basic neurobiology of major depressive disorder with discussions on the most recent advances in research, including the interacting pathways implicated in the pathophysiology of MDD, omics technologies, genetic approaches, and the development of novel optogenetic approaches that are changing research perspectives and revolutionizing research into depression. These basic foundational understandings on the neurobiology underlying the disorder, along with a comprehensive summary of the most recent advances in research are combined in this book to aid advanced students and researchers in their understanding of MDD. Depression is one of the most common mental-health disorders caused by a variety of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is typically treated with first-line antidepressant agents that primarily target monoamine neurotransmission. However, only approximately one-third of patients with MDD achieve remission following a trial with such an antidepressant. Furthermore, MDD is a heterogeneous phenotype, and new frameworks, such as the NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) may provide a more accurate, biologically based comprehension of the symptomatic heterogeneity of this devastating illness. Aids readers in understanding major depressive disorder in the context of NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) recommendations Covers a range of existing and potential pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options, from lifestyle adjustments, to antidepressants and novel therapeutics Synthesizes discussions on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying symptoms with the clinical aspects of depression

Major depressive disorders have recently been associated with impairments in signaling pathways that regulate neuroplasticity and cell survival. Agents designed to directly target molecules in these pathways hold promise as new therapeutics for depression. With the collaboration of the most prestigious international specialists in biochemistry, molecular biology, genomics, psychiatry, psychology, and pharmacology, Neurobiology of Depression discusses the nature of the central nervous system circuits responsible for the modifications of neuronal functioning that lead to depression. The book begins by discussing animal, neurophysiological, and neuropsychological models of depression as well as neural foundations. It explores genetic factors that contribute to depression and describes the effect of monoaminergic systems in the central nervous system. Next, the book profiles the rise of psychopharmacology in the treatment of depression and the research into serotonin and monoamine reuptake inhibitors. It examines the role of the glutamatergic, endocannabinoid, and opioid systems in the pathophysiology of mood disorders, as well as the effect of biological rhythms on the human body. Later chapters review the role of CRF-related ligands, CRF receptors, HPA axis activity, and glucocorticoid receptors in the regulation of the stress response and depression. They also describe cytokine modulation of molecular mechanisms. They examine the role of neuropeptide Y, nitric oxide, beta-arrestins, BDNF, and phosphodiesterases, and discuss the use of tachykinin antagonists in treatment. Finally, they analyze the neurobiological basis for the development of new antidepressant agents. Exploring myriad aspects of a disease that plagues a large percentage of the population worldwide, this volume captures the state of the science of this debilitating disorder, facilitating further research and discovery.

Although our knowledge of mood disorders is expanding, comparatively little is known about bipolar depression in particular. This book offers the most up-to-date information about the diagnosis, treatment, and research surrounding bipolar depression. Early chapters provide diagnostic information and review the course, outcome and genetics of this heritable condition. The book gives a thorough and unique overview of the neurobiology of the disorder, including neuroimaging work. Several chapters delineate the treatment of bipolar depression in special populations such as children and pregnant women. Furthermore, the particular issues of suicide, focusing on the need for assessment during both acute and maintenance treatment, are addressed. Finally, acute and long-term treatment strategies for bipolar depression are discussed, including both traditional and novel therapeutics, as well as non-pharmacological treatments. This volume offers researchers and clinicians key insights into this devastating disorder.

Systems Neuroscience in Depression provides a comprehensive overview of the normal and depressed brain processes as studied from a systems neuroscience perspective. Systems neuroscience uses a wide variety of approaches to study how networks of neurons form the bases of higher brain function. A broad overview is discussed starting with a background from neurodevelopment and neural understanding as well as novel treatment approaches for depression. This book covers basic developmental aspects and depressive psychopathology, as well as the basic scientific background from animal models and experimental research. Current advances in systems neuroscience are highlighted in studies from child and adolescent psychiatry. Integrated approaches are presented with regards to genetics, neuroimaging and neuroinflammation as well as neuroendocrinology. The field of systems and network neuroscience is evolving rapidly and this book provides a greatly needed resource for researchers and practitioners in systems neuroscience and psychiatry. Knowledge covering the whole life span from early to later life Comprehensively written chapters developing from molecules via epigenetics and neural circuits to clinical neuroscience Understanding the neurobiology of major depressive disorder Integrating stress and environmental factors with molecular underpinnings More than 25 illustrations and tables

This monograph is a collection of selected articles on the subject of mood disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. It is divided into 3 sections: 1) Research methods in psychopharmacology - which highlights some established experimental techniques to study mood disorders in human and relevant animal models, 2) Pathophysiology of mood disorders – which explains the physiological and pharmacological mechanisms responsible for mood disorders and 3) New strategies for the treatment of mood disorders – a concluding section that provides recent examples on the beneficial effects of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in the relief of mood disorders. The e-book serves as a primer for graduate students and researchers interested in the physiology and treatment of affective psychological disorders.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex and heterogeneous disorder, phenotypically and biologically. MDD may be caused by complex interaction between genes and environment in susceptible individuals. Thus, a combination of certain genetic polymorphism, environmental stress, and personal susceptibility ultimately may induce MDD. Gene-environment interactions in the pathophysiology of MDD lead to advancement in personalized medicine by means of genotyping for inter-individual variability in drug action and metabolism. Gene-environment interactions may explain why some subjects become depressed while others remain unaffected. The aim of this book is to describe current knowledge of MDD from the point of view of neurobiology, molecular genetics and cognition. The authors address a deep understanding of cognitive and neurobiological mechanisms involved in MDD.

With recent studies using genetic, epigenetic, and other molecular and neurochemical approaches, a new era has begun in understanding pathophysiology of suicide. Emerging evidence suggests that neurobiological factors are not only critical in providing potential risk factors but also provide a promising approach to develop more effective treatment and prevention strategies. The Neurobiological Basis of Suicide discusses the most recent findings in suicide neurobiology. Psychological, psychosocial, and cultural factors are important in determining the risk factors for suicide; however, they offer weak prediction and can be of little clinical use. Interestingly, cognitive characteristics are different among depressed suicidal and depressed nonsuicidal subjects, and could be involved in the development of suicidal behavior. The characterization of the neurobiological basis of suicide is in delineating the risk factors associated with suicide. The Neurobiological Basis of Suicide focuses on how and why these neurobiological factors are crucial in the pathogenic mechanisms of suicidal behavior and how these findings can be transformed into potential therapeutic applications.

An authoritative guide to understanding and treating depression in the medically ill Depression in Medical Illness is based on the fact that depression and medical illness are inextricably bound together and must be viewed through a single lens in order to truly understand, diagnose, and treat them. Throughout the book, the authors emphasize not simply a critical distillation and balanced summary of the available empirical data, but equally important, an active synthesis, formulation, and analysis of that evidence.This informs a contemporary biomedical understanding, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. All of the chapters are authored by members of the Department of Psychiatry at the world-renowned Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In chapters devoted to specific medical disorders, psychiatrists with particular expertise in those areas have been joined by other eminent Brigham medical and surgical specialists or subspecialists. This makes these chapters valuable not just to psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, but to a wide range of medical specialists as well. Logically Organized Into Five Sections: Core Concepts – provides a conceptual and intellectual framework for understanding depressive illness in the context of medical illness Assessment and Treatment of Depression in Medically Ill Patients – discusses the general principles of depression diagnosis and treatment Depression in Medical Illness – Assesses what we know about depression when it is comorbid with the full range of major medical disorders Special Populations and Settings – Is devoted to special patient populations and the importance of the settings in which care is delivered New Directions – A fascinating glimpse into the future of the care of medically ill patients who are depressed

The Advances in Pharmacology series presents a variety of chapters from the best authors in the field. Includes the authority and expertise of leading contributors in pharmacology Presents the latest release in the Advances in Pharmacology series

Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression: Neurobiology and Applications provides a simple, evidence-based overview for neuropsychiatrists and translational researchers on this medication, its mechanisms of actions, eligibility of patients for treatment, and the preparation and implementation of ketamine clinics. Provides efficacy research on ketamine as a treatment for depression Identifies best practices for clinical use, both long-term and acute Discusses the molecular mechanisms and neurobiology of action

The book highlights important new research using current state-of-the-art approaches by prominent researchers in the field of depression. A broad range of topics is covered, beginning with a description of the phenotypic features of clinical depression, followed by chapters on the cellular and molecular basis, functional neuroimaging correlates and information-processing accounts. Finally, existing and novel treatment approaches are covered. In this way the volume brings together the key disciplines involved in the neurobiological understanding of depression to provide an update of the field and outlook to the future. Together, the volume chapters provide focused and critical reviews that span a broad range of topics suitable for both students and established investigators interested in the present state of depression research.

Our understanding of the neurobiological basis of psychiatric disease has accelerated in the past five years. The fourth edition of Neurobiology of Mental Illness has been completely revamped given these advances and discoveries on the neurobiologic foundations of psychiatry. Like its predecessors the book begins with an overview of the basic science. The emerging technologies in Section 2 have been extensively redone to match the progress in the field including new chapters on the applications of stem cells, optogenetics, and image guided stimulation to our understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Sections' 3 through 8 pertain to the major psychiatric syndromes-the psychoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, dementias, and disorders of childhood-onset. Each of these sections includes our knowledge of their etiology, pathophysiology, and treatment. The final section discusses special topic areas including the neurobiology of sleep, resilience, social attachment, aggression, personality disorders and eating disorders. In all, there are 32 new chapters in this volume including unique insights on DSM-5, the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) from NIMH, and a perspective on the continuing challenges of diagnosis given what we know of the brain and the mechanisms pertaining to mental illness. This book provides information from numerous levels of analysis including molecular biology and genetics, cellular physiology, neuroanatomy, neuropharmacology, epidemiology, and behavior. In doing so it translates information from the basic laboratory to the clinical laboratory and finally to clinical treatment. No other book distills the basic science and underpinnings of mental disorders and explains the clinical significance to the scope and breadth of this classic text. The result is an excellent and cutting-edge resource for psychiatric residents, psychiatric researchers and doctoral students in neurochemistry and the neurosciences.

Can traumatic life events cause depression? Studies generally point to a connection between adverse life events and depression. However, establishing a causal rather than associative connection, the key concern of this book, is more problematic. What neurobiological changes may be induced by stress and depression, and to what extent do these changes correspond? The authors structure their examination around three major themes: the pathophysiological role of stress in depression; whether or not a subtype of depression exists that is particularly stress-inducible; and, finally, how best to diagnose and treat depression in relation to its biological underpinnings.

Describes the development of a new approach to the diagnosis and pathogenesis of melancholic depression.

The scientific and therapeutic implications of a new way of understanding a common disease. Depression has often been studied, but this multifaceted disease remains far from understood. Here, leading researchers present a major new view of the disorder that synthesizes multiple lines of scientific evidence from neurobiology, mindfulness, and genetics. A comprehensive mind-body approach to understanding, evaluating, and treating this disease.

As a major mainstay of clinical focus and research today, bipolar disorder affects millions of individuals across the globe with its extreme and erratic shifts of mood, thinking and behavior. Edited by a team of experts in the field, The Bipolar Book: History, Neurobiology, and Treatment is a testament and guide to diagnosing and treating this exceedingly complex, highly prevalent disease. Featuring 45 chapters from an expert team of contributors from around the world, The Bipolar Book delves deep into the origins of the disorder and how it informs clinical practice today by focusing on such topics as bipolar disorder occurring in special populations, stigmatization of the disease, the role genetics play, postmortem studies, psychotherapy, treatments and more. Designed to be the definitive reference volume for clinicians, students and researchers, Aysegül Yildiz, Pedro Ruiz and Charles Nemeroff present The Bipolar Book as a "must have" for those caregivers who routinely deal with this devastating disease.

Depression can feel like a downward spiral, pulling you into a vortex of sadness, fatigue, and apathy. In The Upward Spiral, neuroscientist Alex Korb demystifies the intricate brain processes that cause depression and offers a practical and effective approach to getting better. Based on the latest research in neuroscience, this book provides dozens of straightforward tips you can do every day to rewire your brain and create an upward spiral towards a happier, healthier life. Whether you suffer from depression or just want a better understanding of the brain, this book offers an engaging and informative look at the neuroscience behind our emotions, thoughts, and actions. The truth is that there isn’t one big solution to depression, but there are numerous simple steps you can take to alter brain activity and chemistry. Some are as easy as relaxing certain muscles to reduce anxiety, or getting more sunlight to improve your mood. Small steps in the right direction can have profound effects—giving you the power to become your best self as you literally reshape your brain, one small change at a time.

This new volume in the Handbook of Clinical Neurology presents a comprehensive review of the fundamental science and clinical treatment of psychiatric disorders. Advances in neuroscience have allowed for dramatic advances in the understanding of psychiatric disorders and treatment. Brain disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, are the leading cause of disability worldwide. It is estimated that over 25% of the adult population in North America are diagnosed yearly with at least one mental disorder and similar results hold for Europe. Now that neurology and psychiatry agree that all mental disorders are in fact, "brain diseases," this volume provides a foundational introduction to the science defining these disorders and details best practices for psychiatric treatment. Provides a comprehensive review of the scientific foundations of psychiatric disorders and psychiatric treatment Includes detailed results from genetics, molecular biology, brain imaging, and neuropathological, immunological, epidemiological, metabolic, therapeutic and historical aspects of the major psychiatric disorders A "must have" reference and resource for neuroscientists, neurologists, psychiatrists, and clinical psychologists as well as all research scientists investigating disorders of the brain

Positive life changes lead to positive brain changes. Drawing on the huge success of his groundbreaking book, The Upward Spiral, neuroscientist Alex Korb offers actionable, step-by-step skills to help you reshape your brain and create an upward spiral towards a happier, healthier life. Depression is defined by a collection of symptoms. You feel crappy most of the time. Nothing seems interesting, and everything seems overwhelming. You have trouble with sleep. You feel guilty and anxious and have thoughts that life isn’t worth living. Each symptom reinforces and inspires new symptoms, and this is a sign that your brain circuits are caught in the downward spiral of depression. So, how can you reverse it? In his first book, The Upward Spiral, neuroscientist Alex Korb demystified the intricate brain processes that cause depression and outlined a practical and effective approach for getting better. Based on the latest research, this evidence-based workbook takes the theory behind Korb’s breakthrough book and distills it into concrete, actionable exercises and skills. Just as one small trigger can drag you down, an effective intervention can start enough momentum to carry you back up. Exercise, attention to breathing, gratitude, sleep hygiene, and positive social interactions are just some of the offerings in this workbook that can help alter activity in specific neural circuits, setting you on the path toward an upward spiral to happiness and well-being.