New Insights Into Brain Cell Changes in Depression Offer Hope for Innovative Treatments

Recent research conducted by scientists at McGill University and the Douglas Institute has uncovered specific alterations in brain cells associated with depression. By studying post-mortem brain samples from the Douglas-Bell Canada Brain Bank, the team identified two particular types of brain cells that show altered gene activity in individuals with depression: an excitatory neuron involved in mood and stress regulation, and a subtype of microglia, which are immune cells responsible for managing inflammation in the brain.

Using advanced single-cell genomic techniques, researchers analyzed RNA and DNA from thousands of brain cells collected from 59 individuals diagnosed with depression and 41 without the disorder. The findings demonstrated that many genes function differently in these affected cell types, suggesting disruptions in critical brain systems that influence mood and resilience.

Dr. Gustavo Turecki, the senior author, emphasized that this is the first study to accurately map which specific brain cell types are impacted in depression by examining gene activity alongside DNA regulatory mechanisms. "This research provides a clearer understanding of the biological basis of depression and highlights potential cellular targets for new treatments."

The study's insights challenge the misconception that depression is solely a psychological condition, instead reinforcing that it involves measurable biological changes. Going forward, the researchers aim to investigate how these cellular alterations influence overall brain function and explore therapies targeting these specific cell types to improve outcomes for those battling depression.

This groundbreaking research, published in Nature Genetics, leverages rare brain tissue samples and cutting-edge genomic technology to deepen our understanding of how cellular changes contribute to depression, a leading cause of disability worldwide affecting over 264 million people.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-depression-linked-specific-brain-cells.html