Main > PSYCHIATRY > Depression > BioMarker > Org.: USA. U. (Gsα Protein) > Work Description

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The researchers studied the location of a protein called Gsα in postmortem samples of human brain cells. In depressed people, the team discovered, the protein accumulates within localized, cholesterol-rich “lipid raft” sections of cell membranes. This sequestration dampens the intracellular action of certain neurotransmitters and appears to be associated with depression.

Author s team and others have previously shown in rats and cultured brain cells that antidepressants move Gsα from lipid rafts to other areas in the membrane where the protein can more effectively pave the way for neurotransmitter action. Some evidence indicates Gsα behaves the same in cells outside the brain. If that behavior is confirmed, a simple blood test could conceivably diagnose and evaluate the treatment of depression. “More research is needed before this outcome can be realized,” he cautions



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