Classical neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in major depression

In major depression, hypoactivity of monamines, especially serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine and hyperactivity of two presynaptic inhibitory neurotransmitters, namely gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate at specific subreceptors has been reported in the midbrain. Hypoactivity of monamines is caused by polymorphisms of the serotonin, noradrenaline or dopamine transporter genes. Alterations of neuropeptides in some brain regions have been described as well. In treatment of major depression, selective serotonin, noradrenaline or dopamine reuptake inhibitors or dual-binding antidepressants are administer…