Emerging Trends in Pharmacological Strategies for Targeting Neuroinflammation in Depression
Abstract
The article discusses evolving pharmacological strategies for addressing the neuroinflammation in depression, highlighting its role in major depressive disorder. Neuroinflammation is linked to neurotransmitter imbalances, hypothalamic-pituitary- adrenal axis dysregulation and impaired neurogenesis. Key treatments explored include anti-inflammatory agents such as N-acetylcysteine, toll-like receptor (TLR) inhibitors and cytokine blockers like anti-interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) agents. Glutamate modulation, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are also examined for their therapeutic efficacy. The article emphasises the need for combination therapies and novel approaches like ketamine and microbiome-targeted treatments to combat inflammation-related depression. Despite significant progress, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and optimise therapeutic strategies.
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