Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 4, 2026

The Effect of Anti-Fatigue Decoction on the Behaviors and Serological Indicators in a Central Fatigue Rat Model
Published on: April 12, 2024
The association between cortisol:C-reactive protein ratio and depressive fatigue is a function of CRP rather than
Christopher F Sharpley1, Vicki Bitsika1, Mary E McMillan1
1Brain-Behaviour Research Group, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.
Purpose:
Hormonal and inflammatory factors have been suggested as potentially influencing depressive state and depressive symptoms, but rarely compared for their relative contribution to these states and to specific depressive symptoms. This study examined cortisol:C-reactive protein (CRP) ratio, plus cortisol and CRP separately, as correlates of global depression and fatigue-related depression.
Patients And Methods:
One hundred and twenty-six community volunteers from rural Australia provided saliva and serum samples, and also completed a depression inventory.
Results:
There was a significant correlation between cortisol:CRP ratio and depression-related fatigue, and this resolved to the effects of CRP rather than cortisol. Most of the variance in this association came from patients who were "depressed", and there were no significant gender associations.
Conclusion:
Inflammation, rather than HPA-axis activity, was associated with depression-related fatigue, supporting a model that places inflammation as a contributor to one of the major symptoms and predictors of depression. Individualization of therapy for depression-related fatigue in chronically stressed or physically ill patients might benefit from future research into cytokine therapy.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
G-protein Coupled Receptors
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
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...
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
Muscle Recovery and Fatigue
Physiological Foundation of Stress
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Depression: Overview

