Is there a relationship between morphological and functional platelet changes and depressive disorder?

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Blood platelets share properties with serotonergic neurons, making them potential biomarkers for neuronal activity.
• Previous research has investigated platelet abnormalities in neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly major depressive disorder.
• Platelets offer a peripheral model for studying central nervous system disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and critically analyze studies on platelet activity, functionality, and morpho-structure in individuals with depressive disorder.
• To synthesize findings on platelet biomarkers in depression.
• To evaluate the potential of platelets as biomarkers in biological psychiatry.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched PubMed database up to March 2020 using specific search terms related to platelets and depression.
• Included 106 studies for qualitative synthesis after screening and applying selection criteria.

Main Results:

• Studies examined platelet characteristics including the serotonergic system, adrenergic system, MAO activity, activation biomarkers, responsivity, and morphology.
• Findings on structural, metabolic, and protein expression alterations were observed.
• Changes in platelet aggregability and responsivity suggest potential dysfunction in depressed subjects.

Conclusions:

• Platelet alterations in depression may indicate a hyperreactive state, potentially increasing cardiovascular risk.
• Antidepressant treatments might reduce platelet hyperreactivity and associated cardiovascular risks.
• The specificity of platelet biomarkers for depression requires further investigation.