Recent studies in the neuroendocrinology of major depressive disorders

The several neuroendocrine abnormalities in major depressive disorder support the concept of significant hypothalamic dysfunction in this condition, and offer clues to the psychobiologist about underlying neurotransmitter disturbances. While heterogeneity in hormonal responses are noted with even the most carefully clinically defined groups of depressives, this may well reflect the likely biological heterogeneity of major depressive disorders. Further neuroendocrine research may, therefore, provide validating biological data for the rational subtyping of depressions, and hormonal tests may, before long, become useful laboratory aids to the clinician in the differential diagnosis of depressive states.