National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key laboratory of Drug Dependence Research, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China.
2 papers in the library · 6 citations · publishing 2024-2025
Ketamine rapidly alleviates depression-like behaviors by restoring the balance of NR2B phosphorylation both inside and outside synapses in the medial prefrontal cortex. In mice subjected to chronic unpredictable stress, ketamine normalized abnormal levels of phosphorylated NR2B and the phosphatase STEP61 within one hour. The findings indicate that the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine depend on dynamic regulation of NR2B phosphorylation, offering a new target for developing antidepressant treatments.
In a double-blind randomized trial, 82 frail elderly patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical resection of lung cancer received either intravenous esketamine or a placebo (normal saline) during surgery. Those given esketamine had significantly lower depression scores (HAMD-17) at 7 and 30 days after surgery, indicating less postoperative depression. They also reported better sleep quality in the first week and showed higher scores on a cognitive function test (MMSE) in the first month. Esketamine was associated with higher levels of serum BDNF and 5-HT, lower levels of S100β and NSE, reduced use of anesthetic drugs, fewer side effects like nausea and hyperalgesia, and shorter stays in the recovery room and hospital. Esketamine appears to improve postoperative depressive state, sleep, and cognitive function in this vulnerable group.