Epigenetic markers offer preliminary clues about response to electroconvulsive therapy
A systematic review identified candidate biological markers in treatment-resistant depression, but small studies and differing methods limit their use for predicting treatment response.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Studies of electroconvulsive therapy identified candidate epigenetic markers associated with treatment outcomes in people with treatment-resistant depression. DNA methylation and microRNA expression were the most frequently examined features. The evidence remains preliminary: the review does not establish a validated test that can reliably identify who will respond or guide individual treatment choices.
Small samples and differences in study methods limit the findings. The abstract does not report marker-specific effect estimates, predictive accuracy or follow-up duration, making it difficult to judge the clinical usefulness of any candidate.
What the review looked for
The researchers sought studies linking epigenetic markers with outcomes after electroconvulsive therapy. They collected information on biological targets, patient characteristics, treatment parameters and clinical outcomes, while considering bias and differences among the studies in their synthesis.
Where the evidence stops
The identified candidates involved pathways related to brain plasticity, stress regulation, inflammation and immune signaling. The authors call for larger, standardized studies that follow patients over time before these early findings can support clinical applications.
The original publication
Towards Precision ECT: A systematic review of epigenetic biomarkers in treatment-resistant depression.
Statharakos N, Savvidis V, Gravanis T
Psychiatriki · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 40789196
- Record checked
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