Date
4-1-2020
Description
One-third of individuals struggling with constipation also suffer chronically from comorbid depression, but the evidently shared etiology has remained relatively ambiguous. This proposed study aims to analyze the role of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), a newly recorded neural phenomenon that causes relaxing “tingles” from unique “triggers” in a subset of individuals, in altering serotonin (5-HT) levels within the ENS to aid with both depression and constipation. In depressed individuals, reduced 5-HT has been clinically accepted as a key symptom and is frequently treated with ineffective SSRIs. Prospective alternative methods of non-invasive treatment, such as ASMR, would not only aid in cost-reduction, but also explain the role of external influences on gut 5-HT levels. 5-HT additionally plays a key role in promoting gut motility, and a posited connection between the gastrointestinal microbiome and the brain may exist along a “gut-brain axis.” Further research could improve our understanding of depression-related physiology.
Presentation Type
Presentation
Included in
Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons, Digestive System Diseases Commons, Mental and Social Health Commons
Novel Method of Supplementing Current Depression Treatments: Using Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response-Centered Therapy to Improve Constipation-Associated Comorbidity of Depression
One-third of individuals struggling with constipation also suffer chronically from comorbid depression, but the evidently shared etiology has remained relatively ambiguous. This proposed study aims to analyze the role of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), a newly recorded neural phenomenon that causes relaxing “tingles” from unique “triggers” in a subset of individuals, in altering serotonin (5-HT) levels within the ENS to aid with both depression and constipation. In depressed individuals, reduced 5-HT has been clinically accepted as a key symptom and is frequently treated with ineffective SSRIs. Prospective alternative methods of non-invasive treatment, such as ASMR, would not only aid in cost-reduction, but also explain the role of external influences on gut 5-HT levels. 5-HT additionally plays a key role in promoting gut motility, and a posited connection between the gastrointestinal microbiome and the brain may exist along a “gut-brain axis.” Further research could improve our understanding of depression-related physiology.
Comments
This oral presentation is based on an individual research project.