Abstract
Child abuse is associated with markedly elevated rates of major depression and other
psychiatric disorders in adulthood. This article reviews preclinical studies examining
the effects of early stress, factors that modify the impact of these experiences,
and neurobiological changes associated with major depression. Preclinical studies
demonstrate that early stress can alter the development of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
axis, hypothalamic and extrahypothalamic corticotropin releasing hormone, monoaminergic,
and γ-aminobutyric acid/benzodiazepine systems. Stress has also been shown to promote
structural and functional alterations in brain regions similar to those seen in adults
with depression. Emerging data suggest, however, that the long-term effects of early
stress can be moderated by genetic factors and the quality of the subsequent caregiving
environment. These effects also can be prevented or reversed with various pharmacologic
interventions. Preclinical studies of early stress can provide valuable insights in
understanding the pathophysiology and treatment of major depression. They also can
provide an important tool to use to investigate interactions between genes and environments
in determining an individual’s sensitivity to stress. More research is needed to understand
how inherent factors interact with experiences of abuse and other psychosocial factors
to confer vulnerability to develop depression.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
July 25,
2000
Received in revised form:
July 12,
2000
Received:
May 17,
2000
Identification
Copyright
© 2000 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
