Numerous cerebral spinal fluid biomarkers are elevated in adults with unipolar depression, implicating disruptions in several neurocircuits, according to findings from a new meta-analysis.

Danish researchers say their findings suggest that a dysregulated dopaminergic system, increased neuroinflammation and impaired neuroplasticity as important factors, among others, in the pathogenesis of depression.

However, the Copenhagen University Hospital-led team caution that more high-quality studies are needed before conclusions can be drawn.

“In order to be relevant in a clinical context, the results need to be validated by further high-quality studies identifying subgroups with different biological underpinnings,” said lead author Dr Michael Eriksen Benros.