Reduced Levels of Norepinephrine Transporters in the Locus Coeruleus in Major Depression

This study determined whether the binding of 3Hnisoxetine to norepinephrine transmitter (NET) in the locus coeruleus (LC) of victims of major depression is altered. Brain tissue of 15 subjects of major depression were matched with 15 controls. 13 of these subjects had died from suicide. Binding of 3Hnisoxetine to NET’s in the midcaudal portion of the LC from major depressive subjects was significantly lower than controls. Possible interpretations of the data are discussed. (49 refs.)