According to the University of Turku, Finnish scientists have discovered how the brain regulates States of depression and despondency. The researchers found that active JNK protein inhibits the production of nerve cells in the hippocampus. Scientists selectively blocked the activity of JNK protein in mice. Thus it was possible to promote the formation of new nerve cells in the hippocampus and, as a consequence, to alleviate the condition caused by depression and despondency.
“We have discovered a new molecule, the impact of which has facilitated a state of depression and depression in rodents. Still unknown mechanism gives us new information about how the brain regulates mood and shows that JNK-blocker that we used in the study may provide us with new opportunities to develop methods of treating disorders caused by depression and a state of depression,” says study leader Eleanor Coffey (Eleanor Coffey).
Violations caused by depression and depression, are among the most common and significant factors causing the condition of disability and reduces the quality of life. Many patients, however, do not receive modern medical care. According to Coffey, researchers have long formed the opinion that treatment for depression modern methods is necessary to better understand the mechanisms causing the disease.
The researchers used a viral molecule to determine which parts of the brain JNK-blocker was effective at the mood. They found the action of the molecules in the hippocampus, i.e. the part of the brain responsible for emotions and learning. Blocker eased state of depression, and depression by controlling the formation of new nerve cells in the hippocampus.
“In our studies, we examined the effects of a new mechanism and new molecules-blocker. The next step is the application of knowledge along with modern medicines. Next, we will conduct experiments in which we introduce JNK-blocker at the same time with the use of conventional antidepressants, and then study the change of state of the mice,” says Coffey.
Blockers, which are used by the researchers for clinical trials in the treatment of brain infarction and hearing loss.
“Many pharmaceutical companies have already developed a wide range of JNK-blockers. However, previously it was known that JNK regulates emotional behavior. The effect of JNK-blockers should be seriously explored for the treatment of problems related to depression and anxiety,” says Coffey.
In the research group had both the Finnish and American scientists. The study is published in the newspaper Molecular Psychiatry.
