Depression, one of the most prevalent and disabling mental illnesses, has been the subject of intense neuroscientific studies, with the aim of understanding its underlying mechanisms and developing more effective treatments. This opinion article discusses the contributions of neuroscience to the treatment of depressive disorders, based on the study by André Leandro K. Castanhede, Fabiano de Abreu Rodrigues, Paulo Fernando Lopes Dias Alves and Margieli dos Reis Alves, published in the journal Neurociências (2022) .
Neurobiology of Depression
Depression is a complex neurobiological disorder, characterized by changes in neurotransmission and brain structure. Understanding the brain circuits involved in mood regulation, especially the amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, is essential for developing therapeutic interventions. Neuroimaging has revealed that individuals with depression present hyperactivity in the amygdala, a critical region for emotional responses, and atrophy in the hippocampus, associated with memory formation and stress regulation (Castanhede et al., 2022).
Neurotransmitters and Neuronal Plasticity
Recent studies challenge the long-held theory that depression is caused solely by serotonin deficiency. Although traditional antidepressants increase serotonin availability, clinical response may take weeks, suggesting that the underlying mechanisms are more complex. Neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to reorganize its connections, plays a crucial role in recovery from depression. Chronic stress can reduce neuronal plasticity, especially in the hippocampus, exacerbating depressive symptoms (Castanhede et al., 2022).
Innovative Treatments
Neuroscience has explored several innovative therapeutic approaches for depression, including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and ketamine. ECT, despite its stigma, has shown effectiveness in severe cases of depression, promoting neuronal plasticity and relieving symptoms quickly. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, has demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects, even in patients resistant to other treatments, by increasing synaptic plasticity and neurotrophin expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus (Castanhede et al., 2022).
EDMR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another emerging therapy that has gained attention. This approach promotes communication between the cerebral hemispheres and has been effective in treating several conditions, including phobias, panic disorders and depression. EMDR, combined with mindfulness practices, may offer a promising therapeutic path by integrating cognitive and emotional approaches (Castanhede et al., 2022).
Final Considerations
The integration of neuroscience with psychiatry has provided significant advances in the understanding and treatment of depression. Although many aspects still remain enigmatic, neuroscience-based therapies offer new hope for patients suffering from depressive disorders. Continuing research is essential to develop faster, more specific and effective treatments, improving patients’ quality of life.
Reference :
CASTANHEDE, ALK, RODRIGUES, F. de AA, ALVES, PFLD, & ALVES, M. dos R. (2022). Neuroscience in the Treatment of Depressive Disorders. Neurosciences, 5(1), 328-344. DOI: 10.38087/2595.8801.141.
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.