Association of NOS3 rs1799983 Polymorphism with Cognitive Function in Patients with First Episode Depression.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Gerontology

Background:

• Global aging increases the incidence of first-episode depression with cognitive impairment (FEDCI).
• FEDCI presents a significant medical and financial burden on patients and families.
• The genetic underpinnings of FEDCI require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the NOS3 rs1799983 polymorphism and FEDCI.
• To explore the relationship between NOS3 expression, inflammatory factors, and cognitive function in FEDCI patients.

Main Methods:

• Serum levels of NOS3 and inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) were measured in 224 first-episode depression (FED) and 295 FEDCI patients.
• Genotyping for NOS3 rs1799983 was performed using the TaqMan probe method.
• Depression severity was assessed using GDS-15 and HAMD-17, while cognitive impairment was evaluated using MMSE.

Main Results:

• FEDCI patients exhibited decreased NOS3 expression and increased TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, with inverse correlation.
• A positive correlation was observed between MMSE scores and NOS3 expression.
• The TT genotype of NOS3 rs1799983 was prevalent in FEDCI patients and identified as a causative genotype, alongside MMSE and NOS3 expression, as risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Decreased NOS3 expression and the NOS3 rs1799983 TT genotype are associated with FEDCI.
• The NOS3 rs1799983 polymorphism represents a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for FEDCI.