Trace metal profiling in patients with depression in Pakistani population

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Clinical Psychology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Depression is a prevalent mental health disorder with complex etiologies.
• Trace metals play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including neurological function.
• Imbalances in essential trace elements have been hypothesized to contribute to mood disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between serum levels of trace metals (zinc, chromium, and copper) and depression.
• To explore potential biomarkers for depression among these essential elements.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 185 diagnosed depression patients and 185 matched controls.
• Depression diagnosis confirmed via ICD-10/DSM-IV criteria and the Siddiqui-Shah Depression Scale.
• Serum levels of zinc, chromium, and copper were measured using blood samples; data analyzed with SPSS 24.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in mean serum levels of zinc and copper were observed between depression patients and controls (p<0.05).
• Serum chromium levels did not show a significant difference between the groups (p>0.05).
• Depression prevalence showed a slight association with gender (p=0.04) but not with age groups.

Conclusions:

• Serum zinc and copper levels are significantly associated with depression.
• These findings suggest a potential role for zinc and copper in the pathophysiology of depression.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the causal relationship and therapeutic implications.