Depression: The Glucocorticoid Hypothesis and Emerging Treatments - neur 1202

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to the glucocorticoid hypothesis of depression, biological markers, chronic stress, and emerging treatments including psychedelics.

Glucocorticoid Hypothesis

The theory suggesting that depression is closely associated with chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels.

HPA Axis

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a central part of stress response that involves cortisol release.

Hypercortisolemia

The presence of excess cortisol levels in the blood, often seen in individuals with major depressive disorder.

Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, which is impaired in depression.

Neurogenesis

The process of generating new neurons, which is hindered by chronic stress and depression.

Chronic Stress

Long-term stress that can lead to sustained elevation of cortisol and is a risk factor for depression.

Childhood Trauma

Experiences of abuse, neglect, or parental loss during childhood, which correlate strongly with persistent depressive disorder in adulthood.

Psychedelics

Substances that alter perception and mood, showing promise in treating depression, especially in cases resistant to conventional therapies.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

A class of antidepressants that increase serotonin levels in the brain but may lead to emotional blunting.

Estrogen

A female sex hormone that has been shown to have protective effects against stress and depression, particularly during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle.

Cholesterol Syndrome

A potentially serious condition resulting from excessive serotonin activity, which may arise with certain treatments.

Excitotoxicity

The damaging effect of excessive activation of neurons by neurotransmitters such as glutamate, often exacerbated by high cortisol levels.

Hippocampal Dysfunction

Impaired function of the hippocampus, linked to reduced neurogenesis and associated with major depressive disorder.

Psychedelic Renaissance

A resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for mental health treatment in recent years.

Functional Connectivity

The manner in which different regions of the brain communicate with each other, often disrupted in depression.

Myelination

The process of forming a myelin sheath around nerves, essential for proper neural function; disrupted in major depressive disorder.

Biological Markers of Depression

Measurable physiological indicators, such as cortisol levels or hippocampal volume, used in the diagnosis of major depressive disorder.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

A severe form of premenstrual syndrome that includes significant mood disturbances and is linked to hormonal fluctuations.

Postpartum Depression

A complex mix of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that occur in some women after giving birth; influenced by hormonal changes.

Resilience

The ability to adapt to stress and adversity, which can be built through lifestyle factors such as exercise.