Sexual Dimorphic Nature of the Amygdala and its Contribution to Females’ Susceptibility to Depression

Abstract

Depression is about twice as common in females as it is in males, which raises questions about the root of this significant disparity. Numerous studies have examined the role female hormonal changes at various stages of life, including the pre-menstrual, prenatal, and postnatal phases, have in this phenomenon. However, little emphasis is placed on the limbic system’s contribution, particularly the amygdala. The processing of affective information takes place mostly in the amygdala, which is why affective disorders like depression have a significant impact on this brain structure. Furthermore, the amygdala is a subject of interest in studies of sex differences in the human brain due to its high concentration of sex hormone receptors. The recent developments of neuroimaging technologies also provide an opportunity to examine the distinct functions of the amygdala in males and females. This review’s objective is to investigate the characteristics that make the amygdala a sexually dimorphic brain structure by placing a particular emphasis on its volume and function. It will also cover how the amygdala’s sexually dimorphic characteristics contribute to the prevalence of depression in women.