Depression and Different Brain Areas: Neural Activity and Potential Mechanisms

Abstract

Depression is a prevalent mental disorder that reduces the quality of life. It is associated with various psychological, behavioral, and physiological symptoms. A combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors could be traced in depression etiology. Depression affects various parts of the brain, becoming hypoactive and/or hyperactive. Various functions are impaired in depression due to the deregulated secretion of brain neurotransmitters, hormones, and growth factors. Moreover, it leads to immune system dysfunction and structural brain alterations. Therefore, administering proper and effective treatment for depression requires comprehensive knowledge of its underlying causes. All in all, the overview of the role of different brain areas and some of their influencing factors could be beneficial for the treatment of depression.