McGill study finds altered brain cells in those who suffer from depression
Posted August 29, 2025 9:45 am.
A new study has found that people who are suffering from depression have two specific types of brain cells that are altered.
The study was conducted by researchers at McGill University and the Douglas Institute, looked at post-mortem brain tissue that was donated by individuals who had psychiatric conditions.
Looking at RNA and DNA from brain cells from 59 people with depression and 41 people without, researchers learned that in those who suffered from depression, there was altered gene activity in a certain type of excitatory neuron involved in mood and stress regulation, and in a subtype of microglia cells, which help manage inflammation.
“This is the first time we’ve been able to identify what specific brain cell types are affected in depression by mapping gene activity together with mechanisms that regulate the DNA code,” said senior author Dr. Gustavo Turecki, a professor at McGill, clinician-scientist at the Douglas Institute and Canada Research Chair in Major Depressive Disorder and Suicide. “It gives us a much clearer picture of where disruptions are happening, and which cells are involved.”
Researchers say that being able to pinpoint these cells adds new insight into depression.
“This research reinforces what neuroscience has been telling us for years,” Turecki said. “Depression isn’t just emotional, it reflects real, measurable changes in the brain.”
Researchers say they’ll be looking into how the changes in the cells affect brain function.
The study, published in Nature Genetics, and researchers are hoping it will lead to developing new treatments for those who suffer from depression.
