Study: Depression leads low level of biomarker

Experiments carried out on rodents and humans revealed that the deficiency in the biomarker is connected to the traits of depression.

A study conducted by Stanford University and Rockefeller University found that depression causes low levels of a specific biomarker which helps the blood to produce energy.

The biomarker known as acetyl-L-carnitine was found in lower quantity in men suffering from depression. The study proves that the presence of this biomarker is directly linked to the prevalence of depression.

Experiments carried out on rodents and humans revealed that the deficiency in the biomarker is connected to the traits of depression.

The patients suffering from stronger depression don’t often respond to standard antidepressants.

The biomarker, acetyl-L-carnitine is also available in the form of a drug and can be purchased at the drug store.

When animals were treated with the supplements of acetyl-L-carnitine, a change in behaviour was perceived i.e. they returned to normal condition.

Scientists are of a view that the study will require further research in order to determine whether providing the biomarker manually can improve the situation or not. Taking supplements from the drug store can be harmful and doctors remain wary of it.

The demand when once increases for any drug, it is made widely available and it remains unregulated unless authorities take cognizance of it.