Peripheral NORAD lncRNA and MARCKS mRNA expression in suicidal adolescents: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Neurobiology
• Molecular Psychiatry
• Genetics

Background:

• Suicidal behavior is a significant public health issue with poorly understood neurobiological underpinnings.
• Identifying reliable biomarkers for suicidal ideation in adolescents is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare levels of MARCKS mRNA-protein and NORAD long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in adolescents with and without suicidal ideation.
• To explore the potential of these molecules as biomarkers for suicidal ideation in adolescents.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 45 adolescents with suicidal ideation and 45 healthy controls (aged 12-17).
• Standardized assessments and semi-structured interviews were conducted.
• Gene expression analysis of NORAD lncRNA, MARCKS mRNA, and MARCKS protein in peripheral blood samples.

Main Results:

• Significantly lower levels of NORAD lncRNA, MARCKS mRNA, and MARCKS protein were observed in the suicidal ideation group compared to controls.
• A strong positive correlation was found between NORAD lncRNA and MARCKS mRNA in the suicidal ideation group.
• Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated high specificity and moderate-to-high sensitivity for both markers in distinguishing between groups.

Conclusions:

• NORAD lncRNA and MARCKS mRNA show promise as potential biomarkers for suicidal ideation in adolescents.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the role of these molecules in the neurobiology and pathophysiology of suicide.