Project Summary

Amit Anand, M.D. (Independent Investigator 2004) of Indiana University, proposes using genetic and imaging techniques to characterize individuals’ differential response to antidepressants. Researchers have shown that healthy individuals with a short (S) version of the serotonin transporter (SERT) gene have greater amygdala activation in response to negative stimuli. SERT is responsible for serotonin reuptake in nerve cells and is inhibited by antidepressants, thus allowing more serotonin in the brain. Low serotonin is believed to be implicated in depression. Some studies have found that individuals with the S gene version, found in approximately 60 percent of the population, have decreased antidepressant response and increased side effects, while those with the long version have a better treatment response. Other studies have failed to replicate these findings. Dr. Anand has employed fMRI and showed amgydala activity decreases after antidepressant treatment. He hypothesizes amygdalar activation in response to negative stimuli could provide a new objective measure to detect differences in depressed patients with different SERT gene types and their response to antidepressants. If an association between genotype and the brain’s response to antidepressants is found, it could affect the planning and monitoring of clinical treatment of patients with depression and other psychiatric disorders.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar Depression

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