Project Summary

Carmine M. Pariante, M.D., MRCPsych. (Young Investigator 2005) of the Institute of Psychiatry/King’s College of London and the University of London, proposes studying the relationship among the stress hormone cortisol, its receptor and depression. Recent studies suggest that one possible mechanism contributing to depression is elevated levels of the hormone cortisol, which have been consistently found in these patients. Elevated levels, in turn, are linked to abnormal function of the cortisol in the brain. In fact, Dr. Pariante has found that antidepressant medications may regulate the function of cortisol receptors. The aim of this study is to examine, by using a laboratory approach in a clinical setting, the function of the receptors for cortisol in depressed patients and how the receptors may be working abnormally in these individuals. Specifically, she will test the sensitivity of the cortisol receptors in immune cells from the blood of depressed patients. Extensive research demonstrates that the function of immune cell receptors provides an indication of the function of these receptors in the brain. Results should improve knowledge about the causes of major depression and lead to the development of potential new treatments.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar Depression

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