ACNP 2024: Assessing Synaptic Connectivity as a Biomarker for Drug Response

Precision Psychiatry Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (hiPSC) Derived Neurons: Assessing Synaptic Connectivity as a Biomarker for Drug Response

This study presents a breakthrough approach in precision psychiatry, utilizing hiPSC-derived neurons to predict patient-specific antidepressant responses. By leveraging patient-derived cortical neurons, researchers analyzed synaptic connectivity and plasticity markers in response to commonly prescribed antidepressants. Findings demonstrated that neuronal features correlate with clinical response, offering a biomarker-driven method for optimizing antidepressant selection. This innovative platform aims to reduce trial-and-error prescribing, improving treatment outcomes for major depressive disorder (MDD) patients.

Key Highlights:

• hiPSC-derived neurons from MDD patients were used to model antidepressant responses.

• Synaptic connectivity markers (PSD95, synapsin, spine morphology) correlated with clinical response.

• Biomarker-based approach offers a predictive tool for precision antidepressant selection.