Yale uses biochemistry in an attempt to combat depression

A study from Yale University may prove to be a precursor for innovative new treatments for individuals such as those who buy Effexor or buy Paxil at Canadian and international pharmacies to balance out their clinical depression.

Scientists focused on the physical aspects of depression, such as brain synapses associated with mood regulation. They also checked into the ability of antidepressants to provide positive effects on the brain structure, alongside their mitigating effects on neurochemistry. Ultimately, they found a specific protein called FGF2 that can promote the production of naturally occurring, nerve cell-expanding glial cells and hamper the reduction of these cells that results from chronic stress.

In order to conduct the study published in the journal Biological Psychiatry, the researchers found ways to stimulate depression in laboratory rodents. Eventually, it was found that FGF2 infusion brought back the glial cells that the rodents lost when they became depressed. The data also show that antidepressants can enhance glial cell production. 

"The deeper that science digs into the biology underlying antidepressant action, the more complex it becomes. Yet understanding this complexity increases the power of the science, suggesting reasons for the limitations of antidepressant treatment and pointing to novel approaches to the treatment of depression," said John Krystal, chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM) describes depression as a condition where sadness, anger or frustration interfere with a person's ability to go about their everyday life. Although the NLM says brain chemicals play a role in the onset of depression, other potential contributing factors could include alcohol and drug abuse, stressful life events, sleeping problems and medications such as steroids.