Association between triglyceride and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Metabolic Disorders
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Depression is frequently associated with dyslipidemia.
• Dyslipidemia elevates the risk of stroke and coronary heart disease.
• Understanding metabolic alterations in depression is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively synthesize evidence on peripheral blood triglyceride (TG) concentrations in major depressive disorder (MDD) versus healthy controls (HCs).
• To assess the overall difference in TG levels between MDD patients and HCs.
• To explore potential sources of heterogeneity in TG levels.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Databases up to March 2023.
• A random-effects meta-analysis was employed to combine TG concentration data (Standardized Mean Difference - SMD).
• Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed to investigate heterogeneity.

Main Results:

• Thirty-eight studies involving 2604 MDD patients and 3272 HCs were included.
• Meta-analysis revealed significantly higher TG levels in MDD patients compared to HCs (SMD = 0.31, p < 0.01).
• Significant heterogeneity was observed (I² = 85%), with subgroup analyses indicating influence from age, BMI, and drug use.

Conclusions:

• Peripheral blood triglyceride levels are significantly elevated in individuals with major depressive disorder.
• Elevated TG in depression may contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the complex interplay between depression and metabolic dysregulation.