Current Research:

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) have proven to be safe and effective for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias; however, the development of psychiatric sequelae post-ICD implantation is presently a limitation of therapy. We are currently investigating whether paroxetine decreases the incidence and/or severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms associated with ICD therapy relative to placebo. We hypothesize that through its potentiation of serotonergic activity in the central nervous system, paroxetine CR will facilitate psychological adaptation and thereby decrease psychiatric sequelae associated with ICD therapy to a greater extent than placebo. In addition, recent evidence suggests that allelic variation of serotonin transporter promoter may explain difference in vulnerability to depression in conjunction with stress. Using CABG and ICD implantation as clinically relevant models of stress, we are investigating the genetic vulnerability to depression in high-risk cardiovascular surgery patients. Genetic material is being obtained from both depressed and non-depressed individuals, and polymorphisms of candidate genes including those linked to neurotransmitters, receptors, transporters, and stress hormones that have been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression are being examined. Predict genetic vulnerability to depression in high risk patients would allow for the development of strategies aimed at the prevention and/or early detection and treatment of depression.

Bio:

Tanya J. Fabian is assistant professor of Pharmacy and Therapeutics and Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh. She received her PharmD degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1998. A graduate of the Clinical Pharmaceutical Scientists Training Program, Dr. Fabian received her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2003. She also completed an NIH post doctoral research fellowhip in clinical geriatric psychiatry under the mentorship of Drs. Patricia D. Kroboth and Dr. Bruce G. Pollock.

Dr. Fabian is the Director of Pharmacy Research and Pharmacy Services at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. Her primary area of research interest lies at the interface between neuroendocrinology and psychopharmacology with a specific interest in the complex relationship that exists between hormones, stress, and mental health. Dr. Fabian's current research investigates genetic vulnerability to depression in patients with cardiovascular disease. Research awards include a NCDEU New Investigator Award and the Dr. Thomas Detre Research Award for her work in the area of geriatric psychopharmacology.