Advances and Challenges in Depression Marker Research

Abstract

Depressive disorders diagnosis relies on subjective clinical assessment due to the lack of validated biomarkers. This review synthesizes recent advances in depression biomarkers across genetic, epigenetic, neuroendocrine, neuroimaging, immune/inflammatory, and gut microbiota domains. Literature was systematically searched via PubMed/Web of Science.We analyze mechanisms, highlight challenges (eg, clinical heterogeneity, inadequate animal models), and propose future directions: multidimensional bioinformatics, AI-driven models, RDoC framework implementation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Critically, our analysis reveals that multimodal integration of biomarkers—rather than single-domain approaches—holds the greatest promise for overcoming diagnostic heterogeneity and guiding personalized interventions. These strategies may revolutionize MDD management through early detection and tailored therapeutics.