Ricerc@Sapienza

Despite numerous studies on major depressive disorder (MDD) susceptibility, the precise underlying molecular mechanism has not been elucidated which restricts the development of etiology-based disease-modifying drug. Major depressive disorder treatment is still symptomatic and is the leading cause of (~30%) failure of the current antidepressant therapy. Here we comprehended the probable genes and pathways commonly associated with antidepressant response and MDD.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) represent the most common treatment for major depression. However, their efficacy is variable and incomplete. In order to elucidate the cause of such incomplete efficacy, we explored the hypothesis positing that SSRIs may not affect mood per se but, by enhancing neural plasticity, render the individual more susceptible to the influence of the environment. Consequently, SSRI administration in a favorable environment promotes a reduction of symptoms, whereas in a stressful environment leads to a worse prognosis.