Moreover, to determine the contribution of SIRT1 activity in the pathophysiology of early stress-associated depression, the ‘developmental dynamics' of ESI-induced changes in SIRT1 expression throughout life in mice must be followed, and SIRT1-dependent alterations in biological mechanisms during ESI should be identified, guiding the identification of pharmacological targets for preventive and therapeutic interventions. The gene discussed is SIRT1; the disease is major depressive disorder.