Week 1

Question 1

What is the leading cause of disability worldwide according to the WHO?

Answer 1

Depression

Depression is recognized as a major global health issue with significant impact on individuals and societies.

Question 2

What must a person experience to be diagnosed with depression according to the DSM-5?

Answer 2

Five or more symptoms during the same two-week period, with at least one being depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure

This diagnosis criteria emphasizes the need for both subjective and observable symptoms.

Question 3

List some symptoms of depression.

Answer 3

• Depressed mood most of the day
• Markedly diminished interest or pleasure
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Insomnia or hypersomnia
• Psychomotor agitation or retardation
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Diminished ability to think or concentrate
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation

Question 4

What is the most well-known theory explaining the pathogenesis of depression?

Answer 4

Deficiency of neurotransmitters in the brain

This theory has shaped the development of antidepressant medications.

Question 5

What were the first antidepressants used for, and what was observed?

Answer 5

They were used as tuberculosis medications, and patients with low mood improved

Isoniazid and iproniazid were noted for their unexpected positive mood effects.

Question 6

What are the main neurotransmitters involved in depression?

Answer 6

• Serotonin
• Dopamine
• Norepinephrine

These neurotransmitters are often referred to as monoamines due to their chemical structure.

Question 7

True or False: The number of neurons in the adult brain is fixed.

Answer 7

False

This was a long-held belief before the discovery of neurogenesis in adulthood.

Question 8

What is neurogenesis?

Answer 8

The process of generating new neurons in the brain during adulthood

Neurogenesis challenges the previous notion that new neurons are not produced after early development.

Question 9

What is the neurogenesis hypothesis?

Answer 9

It posits that alterations in neurogenesis are linked to the biology of depression

This hypothesis emerged as researchers explored the role of new neuron formation in mood regulation.

Question 10

What role do glucocorticoids play in neurogenesis and depression?

Answer 10

Increased glucocorticoids decrease neurogenesis and are correlated with depressive-like behavior

Chronic stress can negatively affect brain health and mood.

Question 11

What happens to neurogenesis levels when animals are exposed to antidepressants?

Answer 11

Neurogenesis levels increase, and depressive-like behaviors decrease

This suggests a potential mechanism for the therapeutic effects of antidepressants.

Question 12

What brain areas are known for neurogenesis in adults?

Answer 12

• Subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles
• Subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus

These regions are critical for the generation of new neurons throughout adulthood.

Question 13

What is oxidative stress?

Answer 13

An imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants that can reduce neurogenesis

High levels of reactive oxygen species can damage cells and hinder neurogenesis.

Question 14

True or False: There is a clear correlation between depression and oxidative stress levels.

Answer 14

True

Meta-analyses have shown associations, although direct measurements of neurogenesis in living individuals are challenging.

Question 15

What is a holistic approach in treating mood disorders?

Answer 15

Considering multiple interacting factors instead of isolating them

This approach may provide more effective support for individuals suffering from mood disorders.