Catechol-O-methyltransferase activity and classification of depression
Davidson, J.R.; McLeod, M.N.; Turnbull, C.D.; White, H.L.; Feuer, E.J.
Biological Psychiatry 14(6): 937-942
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0006-3223 PMID: 508884 Document Number: 151777
Red blood cell catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) activity was compared across different depressive diagnoses. In a sample of 88 depressed inpatients, using defined criteria, no difference was found in respect of enzyme activity and the following categories: primary, secondary, delusional, nondelusional, endogenous, nonendogenous (neurotic), characterological depressions. COMT did not vary with age or sex. A significant increase in COMT activity was noted in agitated, depressed males, as compared to other groups.