Involvement of Glial Cells in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Depression

Abstract

Depression is a complex neuropsychiatric illness affecting millions worldwide. Furthermore, its exact cause remains uncertain. Theories include the monoamine hypothesis, changes in hormonal systems, inflammation, immune alterations, neurogenesis issues, and environmental factors. Recent research has highlighted the role of glial cells, particularly microglia and astrocytes, in depression. This chapter explores the implications of glial cells in depression, shedding light on their involvement in neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, and the regulation of mood-related circuits. An intricate interplay between glial cells, proinflammatory cytokines, and neuronal processes appears to underlie the etiology and progression of depression. Understanding the dynamic interactions between glial cells and neurons in the context of depression offers promising avenues for novel therapeutic interventions targeting this debilitating disorder's neuroinflammatory components.