Abstract: This article reviewed the changes in morphology and function of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the alterations in the number and physiological function of GABAergic interneurons and their subtypes in depression. The impact of microstructural changes in different types of inhibitory neurons on the pathogenesis of depression, including their morphology and electrophysiological characteristics, was explored. The physiological and pathological changes in inhibitory neurons were discussed to elucidate their role in disinhibition of pyramidal neurons and the subsequent development of depression. The effects of antidepressant medications on GABAergic interneurons, including changes in their function and expression levels, were compared between preclinical and clinical studies. The involvement of GABAAand GABABreceptors as therapeutic targets in the treatment of depression was emphasized. Finally, the existing problems related to the involvement of GABAergic interneurons in the pathogenesis of depression in PFC were analyzed, and future research directions focusing on new receptors, targets, and pathways were proposed to provide insights into depression-related research and clinical treatment.

Key words: depression, prefrontal cortex, γ-aminobutyric acid, interneuron, antidepressants