Machine-learning algorithm could predict individual treatment response to sertraline for depression

Written by Sharon Salt, Senior Editor

A neural signature has been discovered that could predict whether individuals with depression are likely to benefit from a commonly prescribed antidepressant termed sertraline. The study, which has been published in Nature Biotechnology, describes how a new machine-learning algorithm can identify complex patterns in a person’s brain activity that correlates with clinically meaningful outcomes. “There is a great need in psychiatry today for objective tests that can inform treatment and go beyond some of the limitations of our diagnostic system,” commented senior author, Amit Etkin (Stanford University, CA, USA). “Our findings are exciting because they reflect progress made towards this...

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