Gender differences in the association between pan-immune-inflammation value and probable depression: A
Dongdong Yu1, Ting Cheng1,2, Yue Yang2
1Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
Plos One
|December 30, 2025
Summary
Elevated pan-immune inflammation value (PIV) is linked to a higher risk of probable depression, particularly in females. This inflammation marker shows sex-specific associations with depression, warranting further investigation into underlying mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Epidemiology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The pan-immune inflammation value (PIV) is an emerging biomarker reflecting systemic inflammation.
- Depression is a prevalent mental health condition with complex underlying factors.
- Understanding the relationship between inflammation and depression is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the non-linear association between PIV and probable depression.
- To identify potential thresholds for PIV in relation to depression risk.
- To explore sex-specific differences in the PIV-depression relationship.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005-2018 (n=27,049).
- Employed restricted cubic spline analysis to model non-linear relationships and identify optimal PIV cutoffs.
- Conducted weighted logistic regression and gender-stratified analyses to assess PIV's association with probable depression.
Main Results:
- An optimal PIV cutoff of 5.74 was identified.
- Individuals with PIV > 5.74 exhibited a 14% increased risk of probable depression (OR=1.14, 95% CI: 1.02-1.28).
- A significant association was observed in females (OR=1.20, 95% CI: 1.03-1.40), but not in males. In males, PIV interacted with age, education, and alcohol consumption.
Conclusions:
- PIV may serve as a sex-specific biomarker for probable depression risk.
- The association between PIV and probable depression appears more robust in females.
- Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms behind these gender differences and validate findings for clinical use.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Panic Disorder
566
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and sudden minutes-long episodes of intense fear, known as panic attacks. These attacks may feel like heart attacks and often happen without warning or a specific cause. They can include symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, chest pain, trembling, sweating, dizziness, and a sense of helplessness. During a panic attack, individuals may feel as though they are experiencing a heart attack or are in a...
566
01:27Psychoneuroimmunology: Cardiovascular Disease
367
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a multidisciplinary field that examines how psychological factors, particularly stress, interact with the immune system and impact physical health. Research in PNI has shown that chronic or traumatic stress can disrupt both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. These disruptions contribute to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases.
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
367
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
408
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
408
01:30Stress and Mental Health
536
Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
536
01:27Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia
564
Depressive disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by pervasive feelings of sadness, diminished pleasure in life, and a significant impact on daily functioning. These conditions are most prevalent in individuals during their 30s and affect women at twice the rate of men. Contrary to popular belief, younger individuals are generally more susceptible to these disorders than older adults. Two key types of depressive disorders include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and...
564
01:19Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer
404
Chronic stress has been linked to both the onset and progression of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Type 2 diabetes, a widespread chronic illness, is closely associated with obesity and insulin resistance, both of which often worsen under stress. Studies indicate that men experiencing high levels of chronic stress face a 45% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those with minimal stress. Stress triggers physiological responses that elevate blood...
404