Depression biological basis

Richelson E. Biological basis of depression and therapeutic relevance. J Clin Psychiatry 1991 52[Suppl 6] 4-10. 

Thus, sleep deprivation may be an alternative somatic approach that holds promise for the treatment of certain depressive disorders, as well as being an aid in elucidating the biological basis of mood disorders (183). Further preliminary evidence indicates a role for sleep deprivation when used concomitantly or consecutively with antidepressants or with bright light therapy (184). 

To understand the biological basis of depression, including the monoamine hypothesis, the neurotransmitter receptor hypothesis and the hypothesis of reduced activation of brain neurotrophic factors. 

The monoamine theory of depression is important because it provides a model for the idea that antidepressant drugs act on the biological basis of depressive symptoms. It forms the basis for the modern idea that depression arises from a chemical imbalance. 

Since its introduction several decades ago for the occasional treatment of "psychotic excitement", lithium is still a mainstay in the treatment and prophylaxis of manic-depressive disorders [1]. The biologic basis for the clinical efficacy of lithium is not completely known. Interestingly, the agent relieves both mania and depression, states which appear to be opposites. Its therapeutic range, however, is narrow, and even at the lowest effective dosage, some unwanted side effects may occur [2]. Serum levels above 1.5 mEq/L often result in acute intoxication, which may... 

Traditional explanations of the biologic basis of depressive disorders have focused largely on NE and 5-HT however, most of the evidence that coalesced into the biogenic amine hypothesis of depression does not clearly distinguish between NE and DA. ... 

Clinical Reviews - A series of three articles dealing with the classification of depression, neuropharmacological test procedures, and the limitations of present drugs used in the treatment of depression has been published.The historical aspects of, and the biological basis for, the treatment of mood disorders is the subject of three reports.46-48 other... 

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