Genetic Biomarkers Predict Antidepressant Response; Genetic Switch May Cause Depression Brain Changes

Researchers have identified genetic biomarkers that indicate whether a person will respond favorably to specific antidepressant medications. A separate research finding identified a genetic switch implicated in cognitive problems associated with depression.

The work with genetic biomarkers found that after eight weeks of treatment, the patients who had not responded were those who had higher levels of three inflammation markers before treatment started than patients who responded. The biomarkers are not specific to one or the other antidepressants, so could not be used to guide the choice of antidepressants, but could identify patients that potentially may be . . .