1 DNA and proteins are key molecules of the cell nucleus. 2  One gene makes one protein. 3  A gene is made of DNA. 4  Bacteria and viruses have DNA too. 5  The DNA molecule is shaped like a twisted ladder. 6  A half DNA ladder is a template for copying the whole.  RNA is an intermediary between DNA and protein.
1 Another theory holds that depression may directly damage the brain, leading to dementia. âSimply put, chronic stress and/or depression may result in the release of cortisol,â Gorman says. Over time, this stress hormone can harm the brain, she says.  A third theory points to reduced brain volume.
It is also possible for depression to develop as a result of these disorders. Diseases like cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and Parkinson's disease can cause depression. The depression symptoms can be worsened by the presence of the disease and the disease symptoms can be worsened by the presence of depression. In these instances treating the depression can alleviate the symptoms associated with the disease. Risk factors for depression. Depression is a severe mental illness which can afflict anyone, even children, at any stage of their life. There are however prevalent risk factors associated with depression. These risk factors include: