Uncovering Genetic and Therapeutic Breakthroughs in Treatment-Resistant Depression

Researchers have identified a gene called LHPP that interacts with stress and plays a crucial role in treatment-resistant Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) using an animal model. Increased expression of LHPP worsened depression-like behaviors in stressed mice, while esketamine showed promise in alleviating this form of depression. The study highlights the complex interplay between genetic risks and environmental factors in the development of MDD and suggests LHPP as a potential therapeutic target for MDD treatment.