Nature Neuroscience · 19 October 2026 · From issue 54
Spatiotemporal remodeling in habenula marks the onset of depression-related phenotypes
In mice, a brain region grows more reactive step by step as stress leads to depression-like behavior.
Patricia Molina, Denys Osypenko et al.
A small brain area called the habenula changes over time in mice under long-term stress. Scientists tracked gene activity and brain cell signals in this area and saw cells react more strongly to bad experiences as stress went on. These changes matched the growth of depression-like behavior. The fast-acting antidepressant ketamine reversed the changes, and calming the cells early also reduced depression-like symptoms.
Shows a possible early window for treatment in a mouse model, not yet tested in people.
Male mice only, lab study, no human data yet.
Integrity screen: passed (3 checks) Checked 30 October 2026. Retraction record: none. DOI resolves at doi.org. Metadata record found (Nature Neuroscience). Read the source
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