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Immune System Modulators with Antidepressant Effects: Evidence from Animal Models
Helena M Abelaira1, Amanda L Maciel1, Joao Quevedo2
1Laboratory of Neurosciences, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Health Sciences Unit, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
CNS & Neurological Disorders Drug Targets
|April 11, 2017
Summary
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is linked to inflammation. Immune system modulators show promise in treating MDD by reducing inflammation, as evidenced in animal models.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects millions globally, with significant mortality and morbidity.
- Emerging research implicates immune inflammation in MDD pathophysiology, beyond traditional monoaminergic theories.
- Rodent models of depression exhibit elevated peripheral and central inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of immune inflammation in MDD.
- To highlight immune modulators with antidepressant effects.
- To focus on findings from animal models of depression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on inflammation and MDD.
- Analysis of research utilizing animal models of depression.
- Examination of antidepressant and anti-inflammatory drug effects.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a strong link between inflammation and MDD.
- Anti-inflammatory agents and certain antidepressants can reduce inflammation.
- These effects correlate with improvements in depressive symptoms in preclinical studies.
Conclusions:
- Immune inflammation is a significant factor in MDD.
- Targeting inflammation via immune modulators is a potential therapeutic strategy for MDD.
- Animal models are crucial for understanding MDD and developing novel treatments.