Investigating NF-κB as a biomarker for suicidal ideation in depression in a pilot case-control study

Suicidal ideation (SI) is an emotional symptom of major depressive disorder (MDD) that significantly impacts the quality of life of affected individuals. The relationship between inflammation and suicide is both complex and bidirectional. Neuroinflammation has been increasingly implicated in the pathophysiology of depression and SI. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) trigger Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) activation, initiating immune responses and inflammation when they recognize pathogens or danger signals.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between NF-κB expression levels and symptoms, SI in depressive patients.

This case-control study included 60 patients diagnosed with MDD. Based on clinical assessment, Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores, participants were stratified into three subgroups: 20 individuals with recent SI within the past month, 20 with a past history of SI but no such thoughts in the last month, and 20 with no history of SI, serving as the control group. Blood levels of NF-κB were measured using a Human NF-κB enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)Kit.

A weak, inverse association was observed between patients with a history of SI and NF-κB levels compared to patients without a history of SI.

The findings of the present study suggest that depressed patients with SI may have impaired expression of NF-κB. A decrease in blood levels of NF-κB, among other influencing factors, could serve as a potential predictor of SI in patients with MDD.