CALHM2 V136G polymorphism reduces astrocytic ATP release and is associated with depressive symptoms and Alzheimer's disease risk
This study identifies a genetic variant (CALHM2 V136G) that impairs ATP release from brain cells and is associated with both depression and Alzheimer's disease risk. Using engineered mouse models, researchers demonstrated that this mutation causes depressive-like behaviors and cognitive decline, which could be reversed by ATP supplementation, suggesting a novel biological mechanism linking depression to neurodegeneration.
