We are thrilled to announce that the Zanos Lab has been awarded a grant to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the antidepressant actions of (2R,6R)-hydroxynorketamine ((2R,6R)-HNK), in collaboration with Prof. Kobi Rosenblum. This metabolite of ketamine has shown promise in inducing rapid antidepressant effects without the adverse effects associated with ketamine itself in mice, and is now in phase II clinical trials in humans for the treatment of major depression.

The project aims to uncover the role of the eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K) pathway in mediating the sustained antidepressant actions of (2R,6R)-HNK. A multidisciplinary approach will be employed, integrating advanced techniques such as in vivo electroencephalography, ex vivo electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, and proteome analysis.

This research has the potential to pave the way for future therapeutic developments targeting major depressive disorder, offering hope to those who have not responded to traditional treatments.

Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds!