Biomarkers for Premenstrual Disorder

A contract from the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA) to identify biomarkers occurring in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) has been announced by Metabolon, Inc. (Research Triangle Park, NC, USA).

PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that affects about 5% of menstruating women. Symptoms include depression, anxiety, tension, irritability, and moodiness. Women with PMDD often have a significantly reduced quality of life. Although the disorder is triggered by reproductive hormones, the cause of PMDD is not known. Current treatment options include nutritional supplements and prescription drugs.

Metablon scientists will compare samples taken from women with PMDD with samples from normal healthy women. They will then analyze the data to identify biomarkers that indicate a metabolic difference between the two groups. Results from this study may lead to more effective treatments for the disorder.

"Metabolon's technology will identify biomarkers that can be used to develop new treatments for the disorder itself, not just the symptoms,” said Reid Tripp, vice president, business development, at Metabolon. "This study reinforces the diversity and depth of metabolomics applications. Metabolon continues to be sought out by government, academia, and industry to find biomarkers that may impact the way various disorders are treated in the future.”




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