Neuroscience
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Cancer and depression are closely interrelated, particularly in patients with advanced cancer, who often present with comorbid anxiety and depression for various reasons. Recently, there has been a growing interest in the study of depression in cancer patients, with the aim of assessing the possible triggers, predictors, adverse events, and possible treatment options for depression in several common cancers. The objective of this narrative review is to synthesize the extant literature on the relationship between the occurrence and progression of depression in several common patient categories. ⋯ The current research findings indicate a strong association between cancer and depression. However, the direction of causality remains unclear. Focusing on depression in cancer patients may, therefore, be beneficial for these patients.
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Major depressive disorder (MDD) has demonstrated its negative impact on various aspects of the lives of those affected. Although several therapies have been developed over the years, it remains a challenge for mental health professionals. Thus, understanding the pathophysiology of MDD is necessary to improve existing treatment options or seek new therapeutic alternatives. ⋯ However, synaptic plasticity involves a cascade of events, including the action of presynaptic proteins such as synaptophysin and synapsins and postsynaptic proteins such as postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95). Additionally, several factors can negatively impact the process of spinogenesis/neurogenesis, which are related to many outcomes, including MDD. Thus, this narrative review aims to deepen the understanding of the involvement of synaptic formations and their components in the pathophysiology and treatment of MDD.
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Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most progressive and prevalent types of neurodegenerative diseases in the aging population (aged >65 years) and is considered a major factor for dementia, affecting 55 million people worldwide. In the current scenario, drug-based therapies have been employed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease but are only able to provide symptomatic relief to patients rather than a permanent solution from Alzheimer's. Recent advancements in stem cell research unlock new horizons for developing effective and highly potential therapeutic approaches due to their self-renewal, self-replicating, regenerative, and high differentiation capabilities. ⋯ They have been seen to substantially promote neurogenesis, synaptogenesis by secreting neurotrophic growth factors, as well as in ameliorating the Aβ and tau-mediated toxicity. This review covers the pathophysiology of AD, new medications, and therapies. Further, it will focus on the advancements and benefits of Mesenchymal Stem Cell therapies, their administration methods, clinical trials concerning AD progression, along with their future prospective.
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Anxiety disorders are prevalent chronic psychological disease with complex pathogenic mechanisms. Current anxiolytics have limited efficacy and numerous side effects in many anxiety patients, highlighting the urgent need for new therapies. Recent research has been focusing on nutritional supplements, particularly amino acids, as potential therapies for anxiety disorders. ⋯ Long-term administration of L-Cysteine has anxiolytic, antidepressant, and memory-improving effects. L-Cysteine depletion can lead to increased oxidative stress in the brain. This review delves into the potential mechanisms of L-Cysteine and its main products, glutathione (GSH) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the management of anxiety and related diseases.
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Review Meta Analysis
Peripheral CD4+ T helper lymphocytes alterations in major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Previous research has shown that patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) develop immune dysfunction. However, the exact alterations of cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T helper (Th) lymphocytes in MDD remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to examine the specific changes in CD4+ Th cells. ⋯ Heterogeneity was large (I2:18.1-95.2 %), and possible sources of heterogeneity were explored (e.g., age, depression scale, country, and antidepressant use). Our findings indicate that peripheral CD4+ T cells in depressed patients exhibit features of adaptive immune dysfunction, as evidenced by increased CD4+ Th cells and CD4+/CD8+ and decreased Treg cells. These findings offer insights into the underlying mechanism of MDD.