Brain Monoamine Oxidase A Binding in Major Depressive Disorder

Abstract

Elevated MAO-A binding after SSRI treatment indicates persistence of a monoamine-lowering process not present in health. This provides a strong conceptual rationale for continuing SSRI treatment during early remission. Greater MAO-A binding in the prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex in subjects with MDD in recovery and its association with subsequent recurrence argue that deficient monoamine neuromodulation may persist into recovery and contribute to recurrence.