Project Summary

Chun S. Zuo, Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2004) of McLean Hospital/Harvard University, notes that recent data suggest that omega-3 fatty acids (ωSFAs) may be effective antidepressants for major depressive disorder. Although the mechanism of action is unknown, studies show that intake of ωSFAs may increase membrane fluidity. Recent results from Dr. Zuo indicate that MR can detect changes in membrane fluidity in bipolar patients receiving ωSFAs. In the proposed project, Dr. Zuo plans on using MR to assess membrane changes in individuals with major depression disorder before and after eight weeks of ωSFA treatment compared with controls (patients who are not receiving ωSFAs). Dr. Zuo will correlate the membrane changes with clinical measures of depression in subjects taking ωSFAs. Results could lead to a better understanding of the mechanism of ωSFA antidepressant efficacy. Any correlation between changes in MR parameters and clinical evaluations could help refine future strategies for treatment.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar Depression

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