Understanding late-life depression: focus on inflammation

Late-life depression (LLD) is a prevalent condition and frequently complicated by higher rates of medical comorbidities and cognitive decline. We review the current evidence implicating inflammation in the pathophysiology of LLD and the potential of related molecules and pathways to be used as biomarkers or pharmacological targets.

A growing body of evidence implicates chronic low-grade inflammation in the pathophysiology and progression of LLD. Inflammatory cytokines, stress-related neuroendocrine pathways, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and blood-brain barrier permeability all synergize with aging to worsen depressive symptoms. Moreover, LLD presents marked biological heterogeneity, with inflammation-related subtypes exhibiting worse clinical outcomes. Several biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets, including cytokines, gut microbiota, and mitochondrial DNA, are identified.

Inflammation is a key modifiable contributor to LLD and may serve as both a biomarker and therapeutic target. Although current clinical trials of anti-inflammatory treatments show promise, findings remain inconsistent. Future research should focus on identifying inflammatory subtypes of LLD and validating personalized, mechanism-based interventions to improve treatment outcomes in aging populations.