Supplementation with Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Psychiatric Disorders: A Review of Literature Data.

A new application for omega-3 fatty acids has recently emerged, concerning the treatment of several mental disorders. This indication is supported by data of neurobiological research, as highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs) are highly concentrated in neural phospholipids and are important components of the neuronal cell membrane. They modulate the mechanisms of brain cell signaling, including the dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways.

Serotonin transporter gene: a new polymorphism may affect response to antidepressant treatments in major depressive disorder.

Background And Objectives: Several gene variants have been related to major depressive disorder (MDD) treatment outcomes; however, few studies have investigated a possible different effect on pharmacotherapy and brief psychotherapy response.

Methods: A total of 137 MDD patients were randomized to either interpersonal counseling (IPC; n = 40) or antidepressant pharmacological treatment (n = 97). Outcomes were remission, response, and symptom improvement at week 8.

No effect of serotoninergic gene variants on response to interpersonal counseling and antidepressants in major depression.

Objective: Gene variants within the serotonin pathway have been associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) treatment outcomes, however a possible different modulation on pharmacological or psychological treatments has never been investigated.

Methods: One hundred sixty MDD patients were partially randomized to either inter-personal counseling (IPC) or antidepressants. The primary outcome was remission at week 8.