Psychological Disorders Flashcards
Major depression has a lifetime prevalence of
10%
Heritability of major depression is
moderate
no genes on their own effect major depression, although multiple genes have been linked
true
Serotonin transporter gene 5-HTT
regulates the ability of axons to reabsorb serotonin and recycle it.
two short forms of 5-HTT + stress
higher probability of depression - not replicated
long and short forms of 5-HTT + stress
moderate probability of depression - not replicated
two long forms of 5-HTT + stress
lower probability of depression - not replicated
postpartum affects 20% of women and is caused in part by
drops in estrogen and progesterone levels
hemispheric asymmetry in brain activity affects depression
less activity in left hemisphere, more activity in right hemisphere
Drugs used to treat depression
Tricyclics, Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors (MOAIs), Atypical antidepressants
Tricyclics
block transporter proteins that reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine - thus increasing effects of NTs. negative side effects because they also block histamine and acetylcholine receptors, some sodium channels.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
similar to tricyclics, but selective to serotonin. Increase effects of serotonin. milder side effects
Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
inhibit enzyme MAO, which breaks down serotonin in the presynaptic terminal. More surviving serotonin for release.
Wellbutrin
blocks reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, but not serotonin
St. John’s wort
Not regulated by FDA, same effectiveness as standard antidepressants
BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor)
People with major depression have lower levels of BDNF. smaller than average hippocampus, learning. Prolonged use of antidepressants increases BDNF production.