British Journal of Psychiatry Editorial: Translational Perspectives On Women’s Mental Health

Only 3% of preclinical and clinical studies are done examining females/women. The development of new drug therapies relies on preclinical/animal models - but mostly males are used. Is there truly a lack of translation from animal models to human disease? Or, does the failure of Phase 3 clinical trials result from:

1) Not fully understanding diversity of human disorders

2) Not appreciating diversity in animal models

3) A lack of attention to sex/women's health variables in preclinical models and in human clinical models

4) All of the above

When we pay attention to women's health variables in preclinical models, great translation can occur. From premenstrual dysphoric disorder to postpartum depression to Alzheimer's disease risk, we can learn a lot from preclinical models. Careful examination and research on female health variables will improve clinical translation.

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