Identifying predictive proteomic biomarkers of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment effect in depression

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common mood disorder affecting human health. The complex pathogenesis of MDD remains poorly understood, and the heterogeneity associated with the various subtypes limits our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms. Antidepressants are the main treatment for depressive symptoms, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) most commonly used; however, predictors of SSRI response and their pharmacological mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to identify the biomarkers that can predict treatment response and efficacy of SSRIs.

We compared serum protein levels between patients receiving SSRIs treatment and those who achieved remission through SSRI treatment to identify predictive biomarkers for SSRI treatment effect using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer.

Sexhormone-binding globulin(SHBG) level was high in patients who achieved remission after SSRItreatment and was substantially different from that in patients with depression who received treatment without remission.

SHBG may serve as a predictive biomarker of SSRI treatment response and may help elucidate the molecular mechanisms of SSRI therapy in MDD, including the interplay between sex-hormone regulation and immune - inflammatory pathways.