Molecular approach prolongs ketamine’s antidepressant effects in mice by weeks

Researchers at Vanderbilt University identified a molecular approach to extend the antidepressant effects of ketamine in mice by applying BCI, a compound that inhibits DUSP6 to sustain ERK pathway activation. Findings suggest that BCI modulates the duration of ketamine’s synaptic and behavioral effects, potentially reducing the need for repeated dosing and associated side effects.