Neurobiological Correlates of Mood Disorders

Mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, are characterized by disruptions in emotional regulation, mood stability, and cognitive function. Neurobiological research has identified specific brain regions, neurotransmitter systems, and neural circuits that underlie the pathophysiology of mood disorders. For example, abnormalities in the serotonin and norepinephrine systems have been implicated in the etiology of depression, while dysregulation of the dopaminergic system is associated with manic symptoms in bipolar disorder. Neuroimaging studies have also revealed structural and functional alterations in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus in individuals with mood disorders. Understanding the neurobiological correlates of mood disorders is critical for developing targeted interventions and novel treatment approaches for these conditions.