The links between neuroinflammation, brain structure and depressive disorder: A cross-sectional study protocol
Egle Milasauskiene1, Julius Burkauskas1, Simonas Jesmanas2
1Laboratory of Behavioral Medicine, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania.
Plos One
|November 20, 2024
Summary
This study investigates the link between blood lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and inflammatory cytokine levels in major depressive disorder (MDD). Findings explore correlations with cognitive function and brain structure in MDD patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Immunology
Background:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) symptoms are linked to neurodegeneration.
- Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can trigger MDD symptoms and is elevated in neurodegeneration.
- The relationship between blood LPS, cytokines, MDD, cognition, and brain structure is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between blood LPS and cytokine levels with MDD.
- To assess the relationship between these markers and cognitive function in MDD patients.
- To examine the association between blood markers and brain structure changes in MDD.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study with 100 MDD patients and 50 controls.
- Comprehensive evaluation including sociodemographics, clinical data, and the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Scale.
- Assessment of cognitive function using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery.
- Measurement of blood LPS and inflammatory markers, alongside multiparametric brain MRI for structural and blood-brain barrier analysis.
Main Results:
- Analysis of relationships between blood plasma LPS and inflammatory cytokine concentrations in MDD patients and controls using linear and logistic regression.
- Evaluation of potential correlations with cognitive performance and brain imaging findings.
- Statistical power analysis confirms suitability of sample sizes for detecting significant group differences.
Conclusions:
- This study aims to elucidate the role of inflammation and LPS in the pathophysiology of MDD.
- Findings may reveal novel biomarkers for MDD diagnosis and prognosis.
- Understanding these links could inform future therapeutic strategies targeting neuroinflammation in depression.
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