Clinical studies have shown a strong association between depression and risk for heart disease. However, the mechanisms are yet to be understood. Our recent study has revealed cardiac glycosaminoglycans and structural alterations during chronic stress-induced depression-like behavior in mice. The study is published in peer-reviewed American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology. Link for the full article: https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpheart.00635.2020
Our next step is to identify molecular signatures that mediate cardiac pathology during mental disorder. Research investigations are underway in our lab to study their role in causing heart disease and hopefully potential treatment strategies.
