The HPA axis and GABA-Glutamate Systems as Potential Antidepressant Targets in Prostate Cancer

A common treatment for Prostate Cancer includes androgen-deprivation for a period of months prior to radiation or surgery. Some data suggest that this may exacerbate the already elevated depression levels of these patients, arguing for concomitant application of antidepressant therapy. However, the various waves of antidepressants developed in the last 40 years have shown only arguable specific efficacy over placebo, plus significant side-effects which may hinder treatment decision-making and compliance. This paper outlines two emerging and potential pathways for development of new pharmacological agents for depression that hold promise of helping patients to reduce their depressive symptomatology.