Author:
Du Xiangdong,Zou Siyun,Yue Yan,Fang Xiaojia,Wu Yuxuan,Wu Siqi,Wang Haitao,Li Zhe,Zhao Xueli,Yin Ming,Ye Gang,Sun Hongyan,Gu Xiaochu,Zhang Xiaobin,Miao Zhigang,Jin Jeff Wang,Wu Hanjing Emily,Liu Yansong,Xu Xingshun
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) may participate in the development of major depressive disorder, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to explore whether IL-18 correlates with areas of the brain associated with depression.
Methods
Using a case–control design, 68 subjects (34 patients and 34 healthy controls) underwent clinical assessment, blood sampling, and resting-state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). The total Hamilton depression-17 (HAMD-17) score was used to assess depression severity. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IL-18 levels. Rest-state fMRI was conducted to explore spontaneous brain activity.
Results
The level of IL-18 was higher in patients with depression in comparison with healthy controls. IL-18 was negatively correlated with degree centrality of the left posterior cingulate gyrus in the depression patient group, but no correlation was found in the healthy control group.
Conclusion
This study suggests the involvement of IL-18 in the pathophysiological mechanism for depression and interference with brain activity.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health