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The Forced Swim Test as a Model of Depressive-like Behavior
Published on: March 2, 2015
Pharmacogenetics of antidepressants
Concetta Crisafulli1, Chiara Fabbri, Stefano Porcelli
1Institute of Psychiatry, University of Bologna Bologna, Italy.
Frontiers in Pharmacology
|June 21, 2011
Summary
Genetic factors significantly influence antidepressant response in depression, with numerous candidate genes identified as potential predictors. Gene variants impact treatment efficacy, though gene-environment interactions may also play a role.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenetics
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Many patients with depression exhibit suboptimal responses to antidepressant treatments (ADs).
- Genetic factors are estimated to account for approximately 50% of the variability in antidepressant response.
- Previous research has explored various candidate genes as potential predictors of AD efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of a set of candidate genes on the efficacy of antidepressant response.
- To identify genetic predictors that could help personalize depression treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review and analysis of candidate genes involved in neurotransmitter pathways and drug metabolism.
- Inclusion of genes such as cytochrome P450 superfamily, serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR), and various receptors.
- Consideration of genes with marginal associations, including those related to the glutamatergic system and inflammatory markers.
Main Results:
- Several gene variants, including those in the cytochrome P450 superfamily, serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR), and various neurotransmitter receptors, have been investigated for their role in AD response.
- Marginal associations were noted for genes like angiotensin I converting enzyme and interleukin 1-beta.
- Gene variants appear to influence human behavior, disorder susceptibility, and treatment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Gene variants are implicated in modulating antidepressant treatment response.
- Gene-environment interactions are hypothesized to further influence these effects.
- Understanding genetic contributions may pave the way for more personalized depression therapies.
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