Endothelial dysfunction in people with depressive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Psychiatry
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Endothelial dysfunction is a key factor in cardiovascular disease.
• Depression is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular events.
• The relationship between depression and endothelial function requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if depression is associated with endothelial dysfunction using flow-mediated dilation (FMD).
• To assess if depressive symptoms correlate with impaired endothelial function.
• To identify moderators influencing the depression-endothelial dysfunction link.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing endothelial function (FMD) in depressed individuals versus controls.
• Searched major databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science) up to April 2021.
• Analyzed data from nine studies with 1367 participants (379 depressed, 988 controls).

Main Results:

• Depressed individuals showed significantly lower FMD (Mean Difference = -1.48%, 95% CI: -2.62 to -0.33).
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels moderated this association.
• FMD differences were influenced by assessment timing, occlusion site, and pressure, with clinical depression showing greatest dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with depression exhibit significantly impaired endothelial function compared to controls.
• HDL cholesterol levels and specific FMD measurement techniques influence the observed differences.
• Findings highlight the cardiovascular implications of depression and suggest potential therapeutic targets.