Circadian rhythms and treatment implications in depression.
In humans almost all physiological and behavioural functions occur on a rhythmic basis. Therefore the possibility that delays, advances or desynchronizations of circadian rhythms may play a role in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders is an interesting field of research. In particular mood disorders such as seasonal affective disorder and major depression have been linked to circadian rhythms alterations. Furthermore, the antidepressant efficacy of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies affecting endogenous circadian rhythms, such as new antidepressant medications, light-therapy and sleep deprivation, is consistent with the idea that circadian alterations may represent a core component of depression, at least in a subgroup of depressed patients. This paper briefly describes the molecular and genetic mechanisms regulating the endogenous clock system, and reviews the literature supporting the relationships between depression, antidepressant treatments and changes in circadian rhythms.
Monteleone
Palmiero
P
Department of Psychiatry, University of Naples SUN, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, 80138 Naples, Italy. monteri@tin.it
Martiadis
Vassilis
V
Maj
Mario
M
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000187:drug effects / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D003863:Depression / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans
D000928:Antidepressive Agents