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.

Neuroimmunomodulation
|February 28, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

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.

Related Concept Videos

Social Anxiety Disorder01:28

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one might face humiliation, rejection, embarrassment, or negative evaluation. This disorder leads individuals to avoid activities like casual conversations, public speaking, or seemingly simple tasks such as eating, signing documents, or swimming, in public settings. Its impact extends beyond discomfort, often significantly interfering with daily functioning and quality of life.
555
Generalized Anxiety Disorder01:30

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a chronic condition characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry that persists for at least six months, significantly interfering with daily functioning. Unlike situational anxiety, which arises in response to specific stressors, GAD often occurs without a clear cause. Individuals may experience disproportionate worry about work, health, or relationships. For instance, a person might continuously fear poor health despite normal medical evaluations or...
755
Introduction to Psychological Disorders01:19

Introduction to Psychological Disorders

Abnormal behavior, often referred to as mental illness, results from changes in brain function that influence thought patterns, behaviors, and social interactions. Psychologists and psychiatrists typically assess abnormal behavior using three primary criteria: deviance, maladaptation, and personal distress, particularly when these traits persist over long periods.
Deviant Behavior
Deviance in behavior refers to actions or thought patterns that significantly diverge from societal norms or...
1.4K
Depressive Disorders: Etiology01:27

Depressive Disorders: Etiology

Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
679
Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders01:24

Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders

Treatment approaches for psychological disorders fall into three main categories: psychological, biological, and sociocultural. Each approach targets different aspects of mental health, requiring varying levels of education and training.
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...
797
Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder01:29

Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder

The development of psychological disorders, which are characterized by deviant, maladaptive, and personally distressing behaviors, has been explored through several theoretical approaches.
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
877