Research
Internationally-recognized investigators in genetics, neuroimaging, neuroendocrinolgy,
sleep, neuroimmunology, stress and biological treatments provide the foundation
for the Center’s research. UMDC faculty are studying depression,
bipolar disorder and related conditions ranging across the life span from
prenatal to geriatric age groups to improve the understanding of the biological
causes and physiological effects of these illnesses. Clinical trials in
medication and new neuromodulation therapies offer patients the opportunity
to benefit from scientific advances and help us identify medical breakthroughs.
Our research builds on a tradition of excellence and the multidisciplinary expertise found in one of the nation’s top academic universities. Our scientific discoveries are being translated into practical application: “bench-to-bedside” and “bedside-to-bench.” The result—new strategies that minimize recurrences, create better treatment options and offer realistic and attainable approaches toward prevention.
Key Directions for Depression Center Research
Several overarching areas of depression, bipolar disorder and related research are of special interest to Depression Center investigators. These include:
- underlying biological, psychosocial and stress changes that increase an individual’s risk for these illnesses
- ways to improve early identification, prevention of recurrences, and progression
- the genetic underpinnings of depression and bipolar disorder
- the relationship between sleep and depressive illnesses
- imaging of key neurobiological changes in the brain
- the co-occurrence of depression and substance abuse, and other illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- stress and its effects on the body, especially stress hormones and their effects on the brain
- suicide prevention, with a special focus on adolescents and returning veterans
- new treatment options for patients with treatment resistant depression (TRD), including neuromodulation approaches.
Click here to learn more about research at the U-M Depression Center
