Understanding the Role of Oxidative Stress, Neuroinflammation and Abnormal Myelination in Excessive Aggression...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by aggression and cognitive deficits, contributing to significant functional impairment.
• Current treatments for MDD, particularly for aggression, are limited, highlighting an unmet clinical need.
• The heterogeneity and complex pathophysiology of MDD pose challenges for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overview key pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in MDD.
• To discuss unifying hypotheses integrating these mechanisms.
• To describe translational models and emerging therapeutic strategies for MDD and aggression.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on MDD aetiology and pathophysiology.
• Analysis of proposed unifying hypotheses for integrated pathways.
• Examination of translational approaches and novel therapeutic agents.

Main Results:

• Key mechanisms in MDD include neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, insulin receptor signaling, and abnormal myelination.
• These pathways are interconnected, suggesting integrated neurobiological processes in MDD.
• Emerging therapies include anti-diabetic drugs, antioxidants, and herbal compositions.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the integrated neurobiology of MDD is crucial for developing targeted treatments.
• Novel therapeutic avenues, including repurposed drugs and natural compounds, offer potential for managing MDD and associated aggression.
• Further research into translational models and novel therapies is warranted to address the unmet needs in MDD treatment.