Abstract: Adenosine is an important signaling molecule of the central nervous system (CNS). Adenosine typically released in the phosphorylated form(ATP), together with neurotransmitter, both of which are encapsulated in the synaptic vesicles. Once released into the synaptic space, adenosine molecules will bind to their three categories of receptors, namely A1 receptor (A1R), A2 receptor (A2R), A3 receptor (A3R), and therefore start G protein mediated signaling pathways, resulting in various and extensive biological effects. It has been discovered in recent years that adenosine has a certain level of anti-depression effect, although its mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. This review summarized the researches focusing on anti-depression roles of both adenosine and its receptors.

Key words: adenosine, adenosine receptors, anti-depression, review