Novel glutamatergic agents for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder

Mood disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BPD) are common, chronic, recurrent mental illnesses that affect the lives and functioning of millions of individuals worldwide. Growing evidence suggests that the glutamatergic system is central to the neurobiology and treatment of these disorders. Here, we review data supporting the involvement of the glutamatergic system in the pathophysiology of mood disorders as well as the efficacy of glutamatergic agents as novel therapeutics.

► Mood disorders affect the lives and functioning of millions of individuals worldwide.
► The glutamatergic system is central to the pathophysiology of mood disorders.
► We review the efficacy of glutamatergic agents as novel therapeutics for mood disorders.