Researchers at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) have succeeded in identifying three types of depression in a joint research between Nara Institute of Science and Technology and Hiroshima University.One of these types was found to be difficult to treat with antidepressants.

 "Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)" are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants and are said to be effective by increasing the levels of serotonin (neurotransmitter) in the brain.However, not everyone has the same effect, and taking it may not improve it, and the reason was unknown.

 In this study, we collected data from newly diagnosed patients and healthy subjects (67 each, 134 in total) through interviews and blood tests.We also analyzed activity patterns in various regions of the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).In addition, we have developed a new statistical method and succeeded in identifying data items related to important qualities for assessing an individual's mental health.As a result, three different types (subtypes) of depression were clarified.

 The pattern in which different regions of the brain are active synchronously is called functional connection.The three types of depression were characterized by two factors: this functional connection and the presence or absence of childhood traumatic experience.Patients who experienced trauma in childhood and had increased functional coupling between brain regions were found to be the type of depression that did not respond to SSRI antidepressant treatment.The other two types of depression patients were those who did not have increased connections between brain regions or experienced childhood trauma and tended to respond well to SSRI treatment.

 This study provides a promising direction for the study of the neurobiological aspects of depression and is expected to be useful in effective treatment.

Paper information:[Scientific Reports] Identification of depression subtypes and relevant brain regions using a data-driven approach

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