Breakthrough in Rapid Antidepressants: Ketamine & ECT's Common Target 🧠💡
In a landmark study published in Nature, Chinese scientists have pinpointed the adenosine signaling pathway as the shared mechanism behind two game-changing depression therapies: ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This discovery marks a major step toward developing safer, faster-acting antidepressants.
Why it matters: Depression affects millions worldwide, and current treatments can take weeks to show effects. Ketamine and ECT are known for their rapid impact—but until now, we didn't fully understand how they work. By identifying adenosine signaling as the common thread, researchers open the door for new drugs that mimic these fast-acting effects without the downsides.
Who's behind the study? The project was led by Professor Luo Minmin's lab at the Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, alongside Professor Wang Xiaohui's team at the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Professor Li Yulong's group at Peking University. Each team brought unique expertise in drug synthesis and molecular probes to the table.
What's next? With this roadmap, scientists can design next-gen antidepressants that target adenosine signaling more precisely. Imagine treatments that kick in within hours and carry fewer side effects—big news for anyone affected by depression.
Stay tuned as researchers build on this foundation, driving innovation in mental health care across Asia and beyond. 🌏💚
Reference(s):
Chinese researchers reveal shared mechanism in depression treatment
cgtn.com
