Type of project: Translational, Personalized Medicine and Mind and Body

Principal Investigator: Dr. Signe Bray

Institutions Affiliated: University of Calgary

Student: Andrea Civitarese (UGRAD)

Awards funded to project: 1

Background: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common psychiatric condition that is poorly understood despite a wealth of research. One common finding in MDD is reduced volume of the hippocampus, the brain structure that allows memories to be formed, thought to be attributed to reduced birth of new neurons in this region. Physical exercise has been shown to stimulate the birthing of new neurons as well as reduce the severity of MDD symptoms. This project explores the link between these two findings.

Findings: Awaiting final report

Implications: Awaiting final report