Micro & Long Non-Coding RNAs in Blood Samples May Accurately Diagnose Depression & Monitor Treatment Responses (2024 Study)

The study suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in blood and brain tissues can serve as significant biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring major depressive disorder (MDD). Highlights: Diagnostic Potential: miRNAs and lncRNAs show significant variations in depressed patients, indicating their potential as diagnostic biomarkers for MDD. Treatment Monitoring: Changes in miRNA levels …

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TMS is Effective But Underutilized for Major Depression vs. Standard of Care (2024 Study)

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is underutilized in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) despite showing significant clinical benefits, with barriers including insurance coverage and limited access. Highlights: Study Scope: Analyzed real-world data from a large, multi-site psychiatric practice to evaluate TMS utilization and outcomes compared to usual care (UC) for patients with MDD. Patient Cohorts: Among …

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Genetics of Depression Linked to Gut Microbiome Abnormalities (2024 Study)

Alterations in the gut microbiome are causally linked to major depressive disorder (MDD), with certain gut bacteria either increasing or decreasing the risk of developing MDD. Highlights: Protective Bacteria: Ten gut bacterial taxa, including phylum Actinobacteria and family Bifidobacteriaceae, were found to be protective against MDD. Risk Factors: Ten other taxa, such as phyla Firmicutes …

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Allopregnanolone vs. Diazepam: Antidepressant Effects via Brain Activity Modulation (2024 Mouse Study)

Allopregnanolone shows antidepressant-like effects in mice by increasing social interaction and specific brain wave activities, unlike diazepam. Highlights: Allopregnanolone: Allopregnanolone, a neuroactive steroid, increases social interaction time in mice experiencing social defeat stress, indicating potential antidepressant-like effects. Brain Activity: This increase in social interaction is associated with heightened theta and beta oscillations in the basolateral …

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Resocialization After Social Isolation Reverses Neuroinflammation & Depression in Mice (2024 Study)

Resocialization significantly reduces depressive behaviors in socially isolated mice by decreasing neuroinflammation and nitrite levels in the hippocampus. Highlights: Depressive Behaviors: Resocialization reduced depressive behaviors in socially isolated mice, as shown by improved performance in behavioral tests. Neuroinflammation: Resocialization led to decreased levels of pro-inflammatory genes (IL-1β, TNF, and TLR4) in the hippocampus, indicating reduced …

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Moderate Alcohol Intake Increases Depression Relapse in Men on SNRIs (2024 Study)

Moderate alcohol intake in men treated with SNRI antidepressants significantly increases the risk of depression relapse, according to a new study. Highlights: Risk Increase with SNRIs: Men with moderate alcohol consumption and elevated liver enzymes are significantly more likely to relapse when treated with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Sex Differences: Men generally had higher alcohol …

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Aesthetic Chills (Frisson) May Help Treat Depression: Goosebumps from Emotional Stimuli (2024 Study)

Experiencing aesthetic chills can positively influence self-related beliefs in people with depression, similar to the effects of psychedelics, suggesting potential as a non-pharmacological intervention. Highlights: Novel Approach: Aesthetic chills, characterized by physical sensations like shivers and goosebumps, may help shift negative cognitive patterns in depression. Study Results: 96 patients with major depressive disorder showed positive …

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Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (TACS) for Depression: Effective Adjunct via Reducing Prefrontal Alpha Waves (2024 Trial)

Adding transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) to antidepressant treatment improves depression symptoms more effectively than using antidepressants alone. Highlights: Enhanced Efficacy: tACS combined with antidepressants significantly reduces depression symptoms compared to antidepressant treatment alone. Lasting Effects: The additional antidepressant benefits of tACS persist for at least 4 weeks after treatment ends. Brain Activity Changes: Patients …

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Lactofem Probiotic May Boost SSRI Efficacy & Counteract Sexual Side Effects in Women with Depression (2024 Trial)

Probiotics may help improve sexual function and reduce depression severity in women treated with SSRIs. Highlights: Depression Prevalence: Approximately 5% of all adults will experience depressive disorder, often accompanied by reduced sexual desire and dysfunction. Study Design: The study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial involving 112 women with depressive disorder treated with SSRIs, comparing …

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Cancer-Related Suicide Trends in the U.S. (40-Year Analysis) (2024)

A comprehensive study of nearly 5 million cancer patients over 40 years revealed fluctuating trends in cancer-related suicides in the U.S., with a recent significant decrease likely due to advancements in psychosocial care and cancer treatment. Highlights: Data: Analyzed data from 4,870,410 cancer patients in the US between 1975 and 2017. Trend: Suicide rates increased …

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