Neuropeptide concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid of depressed patients treated with electroconvulsive therapy. Corticotrophin-releasing factor, beta-endorphin and somatostatin

Br J Psychiatry. 1991 Jan:158:59-63. doi: 10.1192/bjp.158.1.59.

Abstract

The CSF concentrations of CRF, somatostatin and beta-endorphin were determined in nine patients who fulfilled DSM-III criteria for major depression with psychotic features. CSF samples were obtained at baseline in the depressed state, and again after a course of ECT. Concentrations of both CRF and beta-endorphin decreased after ECT, while the concentration of somatostatin increased, although the latter difference did not attain statistical significance. The increase in CSF concentrations of CRF and beta-endorphin in depressed patients is therefore seen to be state-dependent.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Depressive Disorder / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuropeptides / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Somatostatin / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • beta-Endorphin / cerebrospinal fluid*

Substances

  • Neuropeptides
  • Somatostatin
  • beta-Endorphin
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone