According to researchers, levels of the Rab5lf protein can significantly influence mood and stress levels
In the brain there is a natural mechanism capable of counteracting depression: it is a specific protein called Rab5lfwhich plays a fundamental role in supporting neuronal signals related to Bdnf (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor)a molecule essential for synaptic plasticity and antidepressant effects. This is what emerges from one study led by Xin Shi of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow Universitywith contributions from, among others, John Marshall of Brown University, published in the magazine Science Signalling.
How the Rab5If protein works against depression
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As the study explains, the Rab5lf protein is involved in correct functioning of brain circuits that regulate mood. In particular, this protein is closely linked to stress levels: researchers have discovered that mild chronic stress causes a reduction in Rab5If levels, triggering a cascade mechanism that compromises mental health. When the levels of this protein are lowered, in fact, the mechanism that activates specific receptors that regulate mood is interrupted, consequently the molecular complexes necessary for the correct transmission of the neuronal signal are not formed.
The study
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Researchers studied the effects related to reduction and elimination of Rab5lf protein in the hippocampus of mice, observing depression-like behavior. On the contrary, a increased levels of this protein it produced the opposite effect, alleviating depressive symptoms and improving the structure of connections between neurons. These findings help to better clarify the biological basis of depression, a condition that affects approximately 5% of the world’s adult population and whose molecular origins are still poorly understood. Discovery opens new perspectives in the search for more effective therapies: intervening on this specific molecular pathway could in fact help restore the natural mechanisms of resilience and resistance of the brain to stress.