Biochemical markers in first-episode psychosis: A case-control study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Immunological dysregulation and altered cytokine levels are implicated in psychotic symptoms, especially in first-episode psychosis (FEP).
• Previous research suggests disrupted levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), C-reactive protein, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) contribute to FEP symptom development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare serum levels of IL-10, IL-6, and the IL-10-to-IL-6 ratio in FEP patients versus a healthy control group.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 120 participants (60 FEP patients, 60 healthy controls) matched for age and sex.
• Serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
• Data analyzed using independent t-tests and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Main Results:

• FEP patients showed significantly higher IL-10 levels (p < 0.001) and lower IL-6 levels (p < 0.001) compared to controls.
• The IL-10-to-IL-6 ratio was significantly higher in FEP patients (p < 0.001).
• Elevated IL-10 (OR=2.85) and IL-10-to-IL-6 ratio (OR=2.11) correlated with FEP, while elevated IL-6 showed an inverse correlation (OR=0.41). Mean body weight was also lower in FEP patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• FEP is associated with increased IL-10, decreased IL-6, and an elevated IL-10-to-IL-6 ratio, indicating a role for cytokine imbalance in FEP pathophysiology.
• Altered cytokine concentrations may be involved in the development of psychotic symptoms.
• Reduced body weight in FEP patients might suggest underlying constitutional or metabolic predispositions.