Diagnostic potential of P2X7, NACHT, and iL-6 as immune biomarkers in bipolar disorder

This study examines immune markers-P2X7, NACHT, and IL-6-as potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in Bipolar Disorder (BD). Among 120 participants (76 BD patients and 20 healthy controls), P2X7 levels were significantly elevated in BD patients both before (p = 0.001) and after treatment (p < 0.001), indicating strong diagnostic potential. NACHT levels also increased significantly after treatment (p = 0.007). Subgroup analysis revealed significantly higher P2X7 and NACHT levels in female BD patients compared to female controls (p < 0.001 for both). ROC curve analysis confirmed P2X7 as the most sensitive and specific marker for distinguishing BD from controls (p < 0.001), while NACHT showed predictive value after treatment (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis found significant associations between changes in P2X7 and NACHT levels and clinical improvement (p < 0.05). Despite limitations such as small sample size and potential medication effects, the findings support P2X7 and NACHT as promising biomarkers for BD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. The study contributes to the understanding of immune dysregulation in BD and suggests potential for immune-targeted therapies.