The toxic effect of major depression

Major depression (MDD) is a chronic psychiatric disorder. The aim of this project is to examine the link between specific molecular alterations and neuropathology in the brain in patients with MDD. We will use post-mortem brains that were collected by the Sao Paulo autopsy service. More specifically, oxidative modifications to proteins and lipids, and levels of neurotrophins, which are necessary for the survival of neurons and glial cells, will be measured and correlated with markers of neurodegeneration. We hypothesize that oxidative stress and neurodegeneration will be increased in patients with MDD, but neurotrophins will be decreased in patients. We also hypothesize that increased oxidative stress and decreased neurotrophins will be associated with greater neurodegeneration in patients with MDD. This project will expand our understanding of the link between neurodegeneration and specific molecular alterations in MDD, and may reveal targets that can be used for the development of novel interventions.

Faculty Supervisor:

L. Trevor Young

Student:

Partner:

Universidade de São Paulo

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

University:

University of Toronto

Program:

Globalink Research Award