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Individualized rTMS Treatment for Depression using an fMRI-Based Targeting Method

Individualized rTMS Treatment for Depression using an fMRI-Based Targeting Method

Published on: August 2, 2021

Targeting astrocytes in major depression.

Liang Peng¹, Alexei Verkhratsky, Li Gu¹

¹a 1 Laboratory of Metabolic Brain Diseases, Institute of Metabolic Disease Research and Drug Development, China Medical University, No. 92 Beier Road, Heping District, Shenyang, PR China.

Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics

|October 17, 2015

Summary

This review explores how astrocytes, crucial for brain health, are affected in major depression. It highlights antidepressant impacts on these cells and proposes new therapeutic strategies targeting astrocytes in neuropsychiatric disorders.

Keywords:

astrocytes major depression mechanism of drug action neuropsychiatric diseases serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors

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Last Updated: Mar 31, 2026

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cell Biology
Pharmacology

Background:

Astrocytes are heterogeneous neural cells vital for central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis.
They express neurotransmitter receptors, like serotonin 5-HT2B, and interact with neurons at synapses.
Astroglia play roles in neurological diseases via homeostatic responses, neuroprotection, and reactivity.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the specific effects of major antidepressants on astroglia.
To outline future therapeutic strategies targeting astroglia in neuropsychiatric disorders.
To understand the role of astrocytes in major depression and neurotransmission.

Main Methods:

Literature review of astroglia-specific effects of antidepressants.
Analysis of astrocyte involvement in CNS homeostasis and neurological diseases.
Examination of astrocyte changes in major depression.

Main Results:

Astrocytes in major depression exhibit degeneration and reduced numbers, potentially causing neurotransmission imbalance and altered synaptic connectivity.
Major antidepressants have specific effects on astroglia, influencing their function and survival.
Astroglia are implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression.

Conclusions:

Targeting astroglia-specific mechanisms offers a promising avenue for treating neuropsychiatric disorders.
Understanding astroglia's role is crucial for developing novel antidepressant therapies.
Future research should focus on astroglia-specific therapeutic strategies for conditions like major depression.