Project Summary

Raymond F. Deicken, M.D. (Independent Investigator 2000) of Northern California Institute for Research and Education, is using a technique called proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) to quantify subtle manifestations of nerve cell dysfunction in patients with major depression. Previous work suggests that connections between frontal, limbic, and subcortical brain regions are important in the regulation of mood. Dr. Deicken will use MRSI to quantify levels of n-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), a neuronal marker that is very sensitive to nerve cell loss or maldevelopment. He will test the hypothesis that neuronal integrity is compromised, as evidenced by reduced NAA, in specific brain regions in the fronto-limbic-subcortical circuit among patients with major depression. In addition, the study will examine whether abnormal connectivity exists between these brain regions in the white matter. Finally, the hypothesis that greater duration and severity of depressive illness is associated with increased NAA reductions will be tested. This work may have important implications for treatments aimed at reducing the severity and frequency of depressive episodes.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Depression (Unipolar)

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