The paper presents new research results on the pathogenesis of depression and mania and future perspectives on diagnosis and treatment. On the one hand, we know that depression most often develops in the interplay between genes and the environment; and, on the other hand, that depression and mania may be induced suddenly by deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic areas. Ongoing studies aim to identify biomarkers for depression and mania, and results from recent research suggest that neuroticism, abnormal response to the DEX-CRH test, increased frontotemporal serotonine 2A binding, abnormal emotional processing and deceased executive function may be candidates for such biomarkers. These biomarkers may help to improve diagnosis and treatment in the future.
Udgivelsesdato: 2009-Feb