LUN | Huge Finding Could Change Depression Treatment Forever

A team of Chilean researchers, led by Dr. Jimmy Stehberg from the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at Universidad Andrés Bello, discovered that the brain’s support cells, known as astrocytes, play a crucial role in the development of depressive symptoms. This breakthrough, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, not only redefines the understanding of depression but also opens the door to faster and more targeted treatments.

«Historically, astrocytes were considered mere helpers of neurons. We have known for some years that they play an active role in neuronal communication, and now we see that their excessive activity triggers depression, at least in animal models,» explained Dr. Stehberg.

The study found that, under chronic stress, astrocytes release certain chemicals, including glutamate and D-serine, in an uncontrolled manner. These substances overstimulate specific neuronal receptors known as NMDA receptors, leading to symptoms associated with depression.

This discovery suggests a new strategy for treating depression, targeting astrocytes rather than focusing exclusively on neurons, as current antidepressants do.

The research is particularly relevant as, according to the World Health Organization, approximately 280 million people suffer from depression worldwide, with over 700,000 individuals dying by suicide each year. In Chile, another study conducted by UNAB revealed that more than 60% of school-aged children and adolescents show symptoms of depression and anxiety.

New Drug in the Treatment of Depression

One of the study’s most significant findings was the identification of a molecule that blocks the excessive release from astrocytes, thereby preventing the development of depressive symptoms in animal models.

«This molecule, called cacotelin, has a more direct pharmacological target than traditional antidepressants, offering an effect in minutes rather than weeks,» noted Dr. Stehberg. Additionally, this molecule could be used not only for the treatment of depression but also for its prevention in high-stress situations.

Stehberg explained that potential drugs based on this molecule’s action have already been designed, showing an antidepressant effect in animals. The next step would involve pharmaceutical companies optimizing these drugs for human clinical trials to ensure their efficacy and safety.

However, there is still a long way to go. Therefore, it is crucial to caution against self-medicating with this drug, as human clinical trials have not yet been conducted.

The team’s motivation for pursuing this research stems from their interest in better understanding the brain and designing therapies to help people overcome psychiatric illnesses.

«Our FONDECYT project allowed us to discover the important role of astrocytes in depression, and a CORFO INNOVA grant enabled us to design new antidepressant drugs. Currently, my students are researching how stress affects the brain and the mechanisms that lead to anxiety disorders and binge eating disorder,» added the UNAB professor.

This scientific breakthrough could mark a paradigm shift in the treatment of depression, positioning astrocytes as a key therapeutic target and offering new hope for those facing this complex disease.