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TNFAIP3 mRNA Level Is Associated with Psychological Anxiety in Major Depressive Disorder
Ruei-An Chen1, Tiao-Lai Huang1, Kai-Wei Huang1,2
1Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Background:
Major depressive disorder has been shown to be associated with inflammation and the dysregulation of innate immune responses. Previously, we showed an inverse correlation between the severity of depression and level of TNFAIP3 mRNA expression. The present study further evaluated the association between TNFAIP3 mRNA expression level and symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in 91 patients (20 men and 71 women).
Methods:
The relationships between subscores on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) and TNFAIP3 mRNA levels were assessed by multiple linear regression.
Results:
Only psychological anxiety on the HAMD-17 correlated significantly with TNFAIP3 mRNA expression. Other symptoms, such as depressed mood, insomnia, work and activities, and suicide, were not associated with TNFAIP3 mRNA expression.
Conclusion:
These findings suggest a significant association between anxiety and TNFAIP3 mRNA levels in patients with MDD.
Insights
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is linked to inflammation. This study found that only psychological anxiety symptoms in MDD patients correlated with TNFAIP3 mRNA expression levels.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with inflammation and immune dysregulation.
- Previous research indicated an inverse correlation between depression severity and TNFAIP3 mRNA expression.
- This study investigated the link between TNFAIP3 mRNA levels and specific MDD symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between TNFAIP3 mRNA expression levels and symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD).
- To determine which specific symptoms of MDD correlate with TNFAIP3 mRNA expression.
Main Methods:
- The study included 91 patients diagnosed with MDD (20 men, 71 women).
- TNFAIP3 mRNA expression levels were measured.
- Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess relationships between HAMD-17 subscores and TNFAIP3 mRNA levels.
Main Results:
- A significant correlation was found only between psychological anxiety subscores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) and TNFAIP3 mRNA expression.
- Depressed mood, insomnia, work/activity impairment, and suicidal ideation did not show significant associations with TNFAIP3 mRNA levels.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a specific association between psychological anxiety and TNFAIP3 mRNA levels in individuals with MDD.
- TNFAIP3 mRNA may play a role in the manifestation of anxiety symptoms within the context of major depressive disorder.
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