Hyder, Azan creator Supervisor : Dr. Aneeqa Noor text monographic 80p. Soft Copy 30cm Azan Hyder Depression is a common neuropsychiatric condition, characterized by behavioral deficiencies, mood swings, and cognitive impairments. Although fluoxetine is still a commonly prescribed antidepressant, its drawbacks, including systemic side effects and delayed therapeutic results, make it necessary to look at alternative treatments. Using a chronic restraint stress mouse model, this study examines the effectiveness of 40 Hz light flicker therapy as a novel, non-invasive neuromodulatory treatment for depression by directly contrasting it with fluoxetine treatment. Behavioral tests such as the Light-Dark Box, Forced Swim, and Sucrose Preference tests showed that 40 Hz light stimulation dramatically reduced depressive-like behaviors, frequently outperforming the effects of fluoxetine. Histopathological examinations showed that parvalbuminexpressing interneurons, which are necessary for gamma oscillatory activity and inhibitory circuitry, had been protected in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampal regions. Increased expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and parvalbumin (PV) was further validated by molecular experiments, suggesting improved interneuron integrity and neuroplasticity. These results demonstrate that 40 Hz light flicker therapy facilitates the functional restoration of brain regions damaged in depression, pointing to distinct mechanisms from those of traditional medication. Subsequent research endeavors ought to concentrate on refining stimulation parameters, evaluating long-term safety and effectiveness, and clarifying electrophysiological mechanisms via supplementary imaging and neurophysiological studies. Promising translational potential is indicated by ongoing clinical investigations. To conclude, 40 Hz light flicker therapy might prove to be a useful supplement or substitute therapy, providing a customized, side-effect-free choice for managing depression. MS Biomedical Sciences (BMS) 610 http://10.250.8.41:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/55408 http://10.250.8.41:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/55408