Towards a better understanding of heterogeneity

Although current classifications of depression suggest a homogeneous disorder, depression comprises multiple subtypes and significant co-morbidity (especially anxiety and substance abuse), which may contribute to whether or not a patient responds to antidepressant treatment.

The primary aim of this project is to identify genetic, brain structure/function, cognitive and autonomic markers (or combinations of markers) which distinguish subtypes of major depressive disorder (MDD).

Two key publications relating to this project have recently been submitted:

1. Quintana, D.S., Felmingham, K.L., Gray, M.A., Brown, K., Gatt, J.M., Kemp, A.H., (in review). Impact of Depression Severity, Anxiety Comorbidity and Antidepressant Treatment on Heart Rate Variability: A Meta-analysis.

2. Kemp, A.H., Pe Benito, L., Hopkinson, P.J., Penrose, R., Clark, C.R., Drinkenburg, W., McFar-lane, A., Mayur, P., Harris, A., Boyce,P., Gordon, E., Williams, L.M. (in review). Attentional impairments in depression: Impact of depression sub-type and severity.

This project relates to:

• International Study to Predict Optimized Treatment - in Depression 
  
• NHMRC Industry Career Development Award (Application: 571101, 2009-2012), a research fellowship awarded to Dr Kemp
  
• Australian Post-Graduate Award awarded to Candice Quinn
  
• Recent collaboration with Professor Iain McGregor at the University of Sydney

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