Story perspectives
New Research Links Adenosine Signaling to Antidepressant Effects
11/12/2025
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Story summary
- Recent research shows adenosine signaling is crucial for the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy.
- Mouse-model studies show both ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy induce surges of adenosine in mood-regulatory brain regions.
- Disrupting adenosine receptors negates the therapeutic effects of these treatments.
- Acute intermittent hypoxia raises brain adenosine levels, offering a potential non-invasive treatment option.
- A commentary cautions that caffeine blocks the same adenosine receptors, potentially affecting treatment efficacy.
