A new study has identified a possible link between depression and unusual changes in the way brain and blood cells generate energy. These findings could help enable earlier detection of the disorder and the development of targeted therapies.

Study Features

A team of researchers from the University of Queensland, together with colleagues from the University of Minnesota, examined levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the molecule responsible for energy processes—in the brains and blood cells of young people with depression. For the first time, they discovered consistent patterns in changes to these molecules in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), both in the brain and in the blood.

Early Diagnosis and Treatment

The study suggests that diagnosing and treating MDD at early stages may increase the chances of recovery. The researchers note that fatigue is a common and difficult-to-treat symptom of depression, and finding effective therapies can take years. A lack of previous research has limited progress in developing new treatment methods.

Experiment Process

As part of the study, the team from the University of Minnesota collected brain scans and blood samples from 18 participants aged 18 to 25 who had been diagnosed with MDD. Specialists from the Queensland Brain Institute then analyzed these samples and compared them with results from people without depression.

Main Findings

In patients with depression, cells produced more energy molecules while at rest, but struggled to increase energy production under stress. This may indicate that cells are overworked in the early stages of the disorder, which could lead to long-term problems. The study also found that, in the early stages of depression, the mitochondria in the brain and body are less able to meet increased energy demands, which may contribute to lower mood, reduced motivation, and slower cognitive function.

Implications for Future Research

The results show that depression is associated with multiple changes in the body, including the brain and blood, and affects energy processes at the cellular level. The disorder manifests differently in different patients, highlighting the need for individualized treatment approaches. This research could help in developing more specific and effective therapy options.

The study was published in the journal Translational Psychiatry.