Diabetes drug alleviates anxiety in mice
Metformin, a common diabetes medication, shows promise for the treatment of anxiety and depression.... Read More...
serotonin
Simple test can tell if you’re stressed out
Scientists have developed a new, non-invasive stress test that uses ultraviolet light to measure stress hormone levels in bodily fluids. ... Read More...
Study explains why a moody gut often accompanies depression
Mice with a genetic mutation linked to severe depression had impaired ability for neurons in the gut and brain to create serotonin. The reduction of serotonin in the gut led to a deterioration in the gut's lining, slowing the movement of contents through the GI tract and resulting in constipation. However, treatment with 5-HTP increased neurogenesis in the gut, restoring normal function.... Read More...
Unexpectedly, big wins improve two kinds of memory
Unexpected rewards boost memories of specific events. The findings may have implications for treating memory problems associated with depression. ... Read More...
Possible link between autism and antidepressants use during pregnancy: Mouse Study
A new study in mice reveals a possible link between the use of SSRI antidepressants during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism-like symptoms in offspring. Offspring exposed to fluoxetine (Prozac) in utero were more likely to exhibit impaired neurotransmission caused by an overactive serotonin receptor in the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain implicated in modulating social behaviors. However, treating the mice with a compound that blocks the receptor alleviated the behavioral problems and improved working memory.... Read More...
A good night’s sleep may be in sight: New 3D models of melatonin receptors shed light on sleep disorders
Researchers have created new 3D maps of two melatonin receptors. The models can be used to help develop new treatments that not only improve sleep, but may also treat a variety of other conditions from diabetes to cancer.... Read More...
Fish are accumulating certain antidepressants, antibiotics and sun cream components
Antidepressants, such as the SSRI amitriptyline, antibiotics associated with developmental problems and sun cream components are contaminating water, and are being accumulated in fish. Exposure to the medications has effects on the molecular level to the fish. Researchers say this poses a problem as consumption of gilt-head bream is on the rise, and there could be a risk of the contaminants reaching humans via diet.... Read More...
Research identifies genetic causes of poor sleep
An uncommon variant of the PDE11A gene impacts both quality and duration of sleep. Genetic regions linked to sleep quality are also associated with serotonin production. The study also reveals those with the same hip circumference and a higher waist circumference sleep less, although the effect is small. ... Read More...
When neurons are out of shape, antidepressants may not work
Differences in serotonergic neuron morphology, along with altered gene expression have been identified in patients with MDD. The findings shed light on why some patients do not respond to SSRI antidepressants.... Read More...
Researchers point to a common cause in sudden death syndromes
An opinion article reports on a potential common cause for both SIDS and SUDEP. The reason sudden death may occur is due to a person's inability to wake when CO2 levels in the blood rise, as a result of dysfunctional serotonin neurons in the midbrain.... Read More...
Serotonin Can Directly Regulate Gene Expression Inside Brain Cells
Serotonin can chemically attach to histone proteins in the cell nucleus to help regulate gene expression. The findings may provide a better understanding of an array of psychological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.... Read More...
Depression Reversed by Activating Gene That Helps Excite Neurons: Male Mouse Study
Researchers report activating the SIRT1 gene in male mice helped to reverse symptoms of depression, such as social isolation and loss of interest. The study suggests drugs that activate SIRT1 may be an effective therapy for some with major depression.... Read More...