As population aging intensifies, depression emerges as a major global public health issue, especially affecting middle-aged and elderly individuals. While studies have investigated factors like sleep duration, physical activity, smoking, drinking habits, and comorbidity, the complex interplay and cumulative effect of these factors on the risk of depressive symptoms remain not fully understood.

This research utilizes data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), encompassing observations from 2015 to 2020. The subjects included 8234 middle-aged and elderly individuals, accounting for a total of 22,570 observations. Lifestyle factors were represented by physical activity, smoking, and drinking habits, with the volume of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) quantified by quoting metabolic equivalents (MET). Multivariate logistic regression models were conducted for baseline analysis, and mixed-effects logistic regression models with random participant intercepts were constructed for the longitudinal analysis of the cohort. Moreover, interaction terms between these factors were included to assess their combined impact on the risk of depressive symptoms.

Longitudinal analysis revealed a notable correlation between short sleep duration (<7 h) and an elevated risk of depressive symptoms, evidenced by an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 3.13 (95 % CI: 2.73-3.74). Conversely, long sleep duration (>9 h) was not associated with a marked change in risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 1.11, 95 % CI: 0.78-1.59, p = 0.59). High levels of physical activity (192-336 MET-h/week) were significantly linked to an elevated risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 1.70, 95 % CI: 1.19-2.42). Discontinuing smoking was significantly correlated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 0.68, 95 % CI: 0.52-0.90). Subjects with two or more concurrent conditions exhibited a substantially higher risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 3.19, 95 % CI: 3.13-3.25). Investigating the combined influence of sleep duration, lifestyle elements, and concurrent conditions revealed that enhanced physical activity levels significantly decreased risk of depressive symptoms in participants with short sleep duration, adjusting the OR from 3.16 to 0.83 (95 % CI, 0.53-1.30). Among participants with short sleep duration, smoking and alcohol consumption patterns were linked to a decreased risk of depressive symptoms, although these associations lacked statistical significance. Relative to subjects without concurrent conditions, those harboring two or more such conditions faced a significantly heightened risk of depressive symptoms in the context of short sleep duration (OR = 3.00, 95 % CI: 2.24-4.03), a risk not observed in subjects with extended sleep duration. Moderate napping (0.5-1 h) among participants with short sleep duration was found to significantly mitigate risk of depressive symptoms (OR = 0.64, 95 % CI: 0.44-0.95), whereas in subjects with prolonged sleep duration, extended napping did not significantly alter risk of depressive symptoms.

The results, derived from a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population, may not be generalizable to other demographic groups or cultural contexts.

This study shows that short sleep duration, unhealthy lifestyle factors, and comorbidities significantly increase the risk of depressive symptoms in middle-aged and elderly individuals. Moderate physical activity, smoking cessation, moderate drinking, and appropriate napping can mitigate this risk, especially for those with short sleep duration. These findings highlight the need to address sleep quality, promote healthy habits, and manage comorbidities in mental health interventions for this population.

The red blood cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio (RAR) serves as an indicator of systemic inflammation and nutritional status. This study examines the relationship between RAR and depressive disorder in U.S. adults, utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

We applied logistic regression to evaluate the link between RAR and depressive risk, with its corresponding odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) calculated. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was adopted to assess the potential linear association, while the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the ability of RAR to predict the depressive risk, with the result presented as an area under the curve (AUC).

After adjusting for relevant covariates, a positive association between RAR and clinically relevant depression persisted (OR = 1.33, 95 % CI: 1.18-1.51, P < 0.001). Participants in the highest RAR quartile exhibited a greater risk of clinically relevant depression than those in the lowest quartile (OR = 1.36, 95 % CI: 1.10-1.67, P = 0.005). A linear relationship between RAR and clinically relevant depression was identified (P for non-linear = 0.473), with RAR showing a strong predictive ability for depressive risk (AUC = 0.7467). Stratified analysis showed significant interactions among smoking (P = 0.045), marital status (P < 0.001), and RAR's effect on depression outcome.

Elevated RAR is independently linked to clinically relevant depression, indicating its potential as a novel biomarker for mental health risk assessment. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to establish causality and evaluate its clinical relevance.

At present, there are no definitive biomarkers for major depressive disorder (MDD). Previous studies prompted that neuroimmunoinflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of depression and its factors become potential diagnostic biomarkers. Non-human primates exhibit depression-like behavior similar to humans in chronically stressed environments. Therefore, in the present study, after completing Whole transcriptome sequencing of peripheral blood, neurology-related and inflammatory molecules in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid were measured by Olink proximity extension assay technology simultaneously in 4 natural depressive-like (DL) cynomolgus monkeys and 4 normal controls to screen potential biological markers. Further, postmortem brain tissues and peripheral blood RNA sequencing data from MDD patients available in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were used for cross-species validation. Compared to control monkeys, depressive-like monkeys exhibited elevated levels of neurocan (NCAN). RNA sequencing revealed Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and the interacting S100 calcium-binding protein A family as key molecules in the inflammatory gene network. GEO brain tissue data showed up-regulation of S100A8 and S100A9 in the anterior cingulate cortex of MDD patients. These findings suggest that depressive-like monkeys are in a state of chronic low-grade inflammation and identify NCAN and TLR4 inflammatory network molecules as potential biomarkers of MDD.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and depression are highly comorbid. Increased intestinal permeability has been hypothesized to play a role in the pathogenesis of both. The current study aimed to assess the severity of OSA symptoms, comorbid depressive symptoms, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) levels in adult patients being diagnosed for OSA syndrome. The study population consisted of 176 subjects. An apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 5/hour was used for the diagnosis of OSA syndrome. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory-2. LBP levels were measured in the blood serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Associations between clinical symptom profiles or severity and LBP as an intestinal permeability biomarker marker were tested. LBP levels were not different between patients with different OSA severity, as assessed with AHI or daily sleepiness. Nor were LBP levels different in subjects with different depressiveness severity. Daily sleepiness was weakly positively correlated with depression score, and LBP levels correlated positively with a neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio. Finally, LBP levels were not explained by multiple linear regression models, including sleep-related parameter values and depression score. Intestinal permeability, as measured with LBP level, may not explain the comorbidity of depression and daily sleepiness in the course of OSA syndrome.

Microbiota modifiers offer potential benefits for improving the wide spectrum of symptoms and clinical outcomes in individuals with cancer. However, there is a lack of comprehensive literature mapping to determine which specific cancer and treatment-related symptoms have been investigated as potential targets for gut microbiota modifiers. This scoping review aims to systematically analyze clinical trials on microbiota modifiers in managing cancer and treatment-related symptoms in adults.

We conducted a scoping review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) across four databases up to May 2025, following our published protocol and JBI principles with PRISMA 2020 guidelines.

The literature review identified 33 eligible studies, primarily involving patients with pelvic cancers. The most common outcomes examined in the clinical trials were gastrointestinal symptoms. Other studies focused on patients with head, neck, and breast cancer, examining quality of life, mucositis, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and the use of rescue drugs.

Despite evidence of potential benefits for gastrointestinal symptoms, inconsistent findings across studies warrant further well-designed, large-scale research to understand probiotics' effectiveness and mechanisms.

Dietary interventions are a potential alternative treatment of depression and anxiety.

To evaluate the effects of dietary interventions on depression and anxiety.

PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO searched from inception until 12 December 2024. Trial registries and forward and backward citation analysis done on 3 January 2025.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the effect of dietary advice with or without food provision compared with no specific dietary advice or active interventions for 3 months or longer on depression and/or anxiety.

Two authors independently screened articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Primary outcomes included depression and anxiety symptoms at 3 months or longer. Random-effects meta-analyses were done, and the certainty of evidence was assessed.

Twenty-five RCTs were included. Compared with no specific dietary advice, depressive symptoms might be improved in adults with elevated cardiometabolic risk by dietary advice on calorie restriction (standardized mean difference [SMD], -0.23 [95% CI, -0.38 to -0.09]; low certainty). Low-fat diets may also have very small effects on depressive symptoms in adults with elevated cardiometabolic risk (SMD, -0.03 [CI, -0.04 to -0.01]; low certainty). Evidence on other diets, comparing diets with active comparisons, and on anxiety was limited by study limitations and clinical or methodological heterogeneity.

Limited studies did not allow for adequate exploration of heterogeneity.

Calorie restrictions and low-fat diets might reduce depressive symptoms among adults with elevated cardiometabolic risk, but the differences were small and confidence in the findings was low. Evidence on other diets, comparisons to active interventions, and other outcomes is limited.

None. (PROSPERO: CRD42023485953).

This study aims to investigate the pathogenesis of depression in mice using the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model, with a particular focus on the changes in inflammatory gene networks and inflammatory factor levels under the condition of gut microbiota dysbiosis. The results indicate that CUMS-induced mice exhibited significant depressive-like behaviors. Specifically, they displayed reduced sucrose intake in the sucrose preference test, decreased central area distance and time in the open field test, and reduced percentage of entries and time spent in the open arm in the elevated plus maze test. Molecular biological analysis indicated that CUMS treatment significantly upregulated the levels of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ in the serum and hippocampus of mice. Through high-throughput sequencing and Pearson correlation analysis, it was found that the levels of inflammatory factors were significantly positively correlated with the expression of multiple inflammatory pathway genes, as well as the abundance of beneficial and harmful bacteria. Furthermore, the persistent changes in inflammatory factors ultimately led to neuronal cell death. This study provides strong evidence for the role of disrupted "microbiota-gut-brain" axis homeostasis in the pathogenesis of CUMS-induced depression in mice. This finding offers a new perspective for understanding the pathological mechanisms of depression and provides strategies for future depression treatment.

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW)-to-albumin ratio (RAR) is a novel index. Its relationship with depression, a common and complex psychiatric disorder, remains unclear. This study utilized the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database to investigate this relationship.

Multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and sensitivity analyses were used to examine the relationship between RAR and depression based on NHANES data from 2011-2018. The study also used subgroup analyses and interaction tests to explore whether the relationship was stable across populations.

RAR was positively associated with depression in 18,150 participants aged ≥ 20 years. In fully adjusted models, each one-unit increase in RAR was associated with a 22% increase in the likelihood of depression [1.22 (1.05, 1.41)]. Participants in the highest quartile of RAR had a 30% higher risk of depression than those in the lowest quartile of RAR [1.30 (1.04, 1.63)]. Subgroup analyses revealed that the association between RAR and depression was significantly stronger among men, alcohol-drinking and high-income groups.

Higher baseline RAR was associated with an increased risk of depression in US adults and was more informative than RDW, albumin, and hemoglobin-to-RDW ratio (HRR). Further large-scale prospective studies are needed to analyze the role of RAR in depression. These findings emphasize that RAR can be a simple, reliable and cost-effective predictor of depression in clinical practice.

Different patterns of food consumption may be associated with a differential risk of depression. Differences in dietary patterns between men and women and across different age groups have been reported, but their influence on the risk of depression has not been fully explored.

To investigate the associations between dietary patterns and risk of depression across sex and age groups to identify vulnerable subpopulations, which may inform targeted prevention and intervention strategies.

The ALIMENTAL study was a cross-sectional, online international survey conducted between 2021 and 2023. Dietary data were collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire; depression data were collected using a self-reported validated questionnaire. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to identify distinct food consumption patterns. Multivariate analyses were then conducted to assess the associations between these patterns and depression, adjusting for multiple potential confounders.

Among 15,262 participants without chronic diseases or current psychotropic treatments, 4923 (32.2%) were classified in the depression group. Among those aged 18-34, the PCA-derived factor of ultra-processed foods consumption was significantly associated with increased risk of depression in both sexes with similar odds ratios (women 1.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.15; 1.27), men 1.21, 95% CI: (1.07-1.18)). In women aged 18-34, the PCA factors for sodas (aOR 1.10, 95% CI: (1.06; 1.95) and canned and frozen foods (aOR 1.10, 95% CI: (1.04; 1.15) were associated with an increased risk of depression. In participants aged 35-54 years, the association between ultra-processed foods and depression was only observed in women (35-54 years: aOR 1.30, 95% CI: (1.20; 1.42), ≥55 years: 1.41, 95% CI: (1.11; 1.79)), with a significant association between a higher adherence to the PCA-derived "healthy diet" factor (e.g., fruits, nuts, green vegetables) and a lower risk of depression (35-54 years: aOR 0.82, 95% CI: (0.75; 0.89), ≥55 years: aOR 0.79, 95% CI: (0.64; 0.97)).

These results show significant differences between men and women and between age groups regarding associations between dietary patterns and the risk of depression. These findings can help better target public health interventions.

Depression has a significant global impact. Previous studies have suggested a link between depression and prostate diseases. However, these studies are often observational and may be influenced by confounding factors and reverse causality. This research aimed to explore the potential causal relationship between depression and prostate diseases using Mendelian randomisation (MR) and to assess the mediating role of immune cell phenotypes.

We utilised MR methods with genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data. The analysis was conducted in two phases: (a) a two-sample MR to investigate the impact of depression on prostate diseases; and (b) a two-step MR to evaluate the mediating effect of 731 immune cell phenotypes. Depression data were obtained from an extensive GWAS involving 480 359 participants across multiple European cohorts. Prostate disease data, including prostatitis, prostate cancer, and benign prostatic hyperplasia, were obtained from European-based GWAS. Independent single nucleotide polymorphisms related to depression were selected based on genome-wide significance criteria. Various MR methods, including inverse variance weighting, weighted median, MR-Egger, MR-PRESSO, MR-Robust, and MR-RAPS, were employed to ensure robust causal inference.

The MR analysis revealed a potential causal relationship between depression and an increased risk of prostatitis (odds ratio = 1.606, P = 8.35E-04). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings. Additionally, a two-step MR analysis identified CD24+ CD27+ %lymphocytes as a potential mediator, with a mediation effect of 0.108 (P = 0.03), accounting for 22.78% of the total effect.

This study offers novel genetic evidence for the causal relationship between depression and prostatitis, with immune cells identified as potential mediators in this process. These findings highlight the importance of psychological factors in developing prostatitis and suggest that immune cells could be novel therapeutic targets.

Post-COVID-19 Syndrome (PCS) is defined as symptoms persisting beyond 12 weeks from the onset of symptoms. Notably, COVID-19 has been associated with long-term effects on the brain and mental health. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate depression, fatigue, sleep quality, and cognitive dysfunction, particularly working memory, in individuals with PCS compared to a healthy control group.

Between April and December 2021, 45 COVID-19 individuals and 60 healthy individuals met the eligibility criteria. Demographic information and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment were collected. Two visual working memory tasks, Delayed Match-to-Sample (DMS) and n-back, were performed, along with self-report questionnaires: Beck Depression Inventory, Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.

A total of 105 participants were enrolled. Findings reveal that the PCS group exhibited notably higher levels of cognitive impairment (13.3% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.04), depression (53.9% vs. 25.9%, p = 0.03), and sleep disturbances (53.9% vs. 18.6%, p = 0.01) compared to the healthy control group. Sleep latency and sleep duration were particularly affected. No significant differences in working memory function were observed between the two groups (p = 0.90 for DMS and p = 0.98 for n-back).

The study highlights the higher prevalence of sleep disturbance, depression, and cognitive impairment in the PCS phase, with inflammation likely playing a significant role. Moreover, the study suggests that untreated depression and sleep disturbances may pose long-term risks for dementia. Understanding the underlying mechanisms is crucial for developing effective interventions and support for individuals recovering from the infection. Prospective longitudinal studies with larger and more diverse samples are warranted to confirm and expand upon these findings.

Psychosocial factors, including cumulative psychosocial stress and loneliness, have been linked to epigenetic aging in older adults. Further, depressive symptoms have established relationships with both psychosocial factors and epigenetic aging. However, it is not known whether depressive symptoms mediate the association between psychosocial factors and epigenetic aging.We conducted linear regression models to examine associations between psychosocial stress, loneliness, and depressive symptoms and five epigenetic age acceleration (AA) measures estimated by DNA methylation in a multi-racial/ethnic sample of 2681 older adults from the Health and Retirement Study (mean age: 70.4 years). For all identified associations, we tested for effect modification by sex and educational attainment and performed mediation analysis to characterize the role of depressive symptoms on these associations.Psychosocial stress, loneliness, and depressive symptoms were each associated with at least one measure of epigenetic AA (FDR q < 0.05). Further, we observed interactions between loneliness, psychosocial stress, and sex on DunedinPACE, as well as loneliness and educational attainment on GrimAA, PhenoAA, and DunedinPACE, with females and individuals without a college degree appearing more sensitive to the psychosocial effects on epigenetic aging. Depressive symptoms mediated between 24 % and 35 % of the relationships between psychosocial stress and HannumAA, GrimAA, and DunedinPACE, as well as 40 % and 37 % of the relationships between loneliness and both GrimAA and DunedinPACE, respectively.

from this study may help elucidate the relationship between psychosocial factors and epigenetic aging, which is critical in understanding the biological mechanisms through which psychosocial factors may contribute to age-related disease.

The human gut microbiome, composed of a vast array of microorganisms that have co-evolved with humans, is crucial for the development and function of brain systems. Research has consistently shown bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain through neuronal, endocrine, and immunological, and chemical pathways. Recent neuroscience studies have linked changes in the microbiome and microbial metabolites to various neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and neurocognitive disorders. Novel metagenome-wide association studies have confirmed these microbiome variations in large samples and expanded our understanding of the interactions between human genes and the gut microbiome. The causal relationship between gut microbiota and neuropsychiatric disorders is being elucidated through the establishment of large cohort studies incorporating microbiome data and advanced statistical techniques. Ongoing animal and human studies focused on the microbiota-gut-brain axis are promising for developing new prevention and treatment strategies for neuropsychiatric conditions. The scope of these studies has broadened from microbiome-modulating therapies including prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics and postbiotics to more extensive approaches such as fecal microbiota transplantation. Recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses have strengthened the evidence base for these innovative treatments. Despite extensive research over the past decade, many intriguing aspects still need to be elucidated regarding the role and therapeutic interventions of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in neuropsychiatric disorders.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health conditions, characterized by pervasive and persistent low mood, low self-esteem, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that are typically enjoyable. Despite decades of research into the etiology and pathophysiological mechanisms of depression, the therapeutic outcomes for many individuals remain less than expected. A promising new area of research focuses on stress-induced neuroinflammatory processes, such as the excessive activation and crosstalk of microglia and astrocytes in the central nervous system under stress, as well as elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are closely linked to the onset and progression of depression. This review summarizes the mechanisms through which neuroinflammation induces or promotes the development of depression, and also highlights the effective roles of small molecules with anti-inflammatory activity in the treatment of MDD. Understanding the specific mechanisms through which stress-induced neuroinflammation further impacts depression, and using technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing to elucidate the specific subtypes and interactions of microglia and astrocytes in depression, is of great importance for developing more effective therapeutic strategies for MDD.

Systemic autoinflammatory disorders (SAID), immune dysregulation disorders with onset frequently occurring in youth, are defined by unprovoked inflammation. Research suggest inflammation is associated with the pathogenesis of mental ill-health. Separately, research has identified that mental ill-health is prevalent in people with immune dysregulation disorders compared to healthy controls or those with other chronic diseases, and the psychosocial impacts of these diseases on quality of life can be debilitating. This review aimed to broadly identify the extent and nature of research involving young people with SAIDs and mental ill-health. A scoping review was conducted across 6 databases of peer-reviewed articles referring to SAIDs and mental ill-health in young people. Of 727 studies, 41 met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-seven were observational studies, including 18 case studies or series. Four studies were treatment trials. Fourteen observational studies investigated the prevalence of mental ill-health in a SAID population with large sample sizes. Most studies were conducted in Türkiye, involving Behçet's syndrome or familial Mediterranean fever and anxiety, depression, and psychosis were strongly represented. Findings suggest an association between mental ill-health and SAID activity in young people. Anxiety and depression were associated with some specific SAIDs duration, symptom severity, SAID flare recency and frequency, and SAID treatment effects. Co-occurrence and resolution of SAID flares and mental ill-health with treatment were frequent themes in case studies of some SAIDs. Further research is required on the prevalence and risk of developing mental ill-health among young people with SAIDs, along with associations between mental ill-health, other SAIDs and disease activity, other participant variables, and appropriate management of mental ill-health in this population.

Lithium is prescribed as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder and severe depression. However, the mechanism of action of lithium is unknown and there are major side effects associated with prolonged medication. This motivates a search for safer alternative drug repurposing candidates. Given that the drug mechanism may be encoded in transcriptional changes, we generated the gene expression profile for acute lithium treatment of cortical neuronal cultures. We found that the lithium-associated transcription response harbors a significant component that is the reverse of that seen in human brain samples from patients with major depression, bipolar disorder, and a mouse model of depression. Interrogating publicly available drug-driven expression data, we found that cardiotonic steroids drive gene expression in a correlated manner to our acute lithium profile. An analysis of the psychiatric medication cohort of the Norwegian Prescription Database showed that cardiotonic prescription is associated with a lower incidence of lithium prescription. Our transcriptional and epidemiological observations point towards cardiotonic steroids as possible repurposing candidates for lithium. These observations motivate a controlled trial to establish a causal connection and genuine therapeutic benefit in the context of depression.

Background: Immigration is a key factor contributing to population growth in Canada, a trend that is expected to continue. Immigrants generally arrive with better health than the Canadian-born population, but this advantage often diminishes over time, partially due to dietary acculturation. Emerging evidence points to a bidirectional link between nutrition and mental health. Objective: To explore the bidirectional relationship between nutrition and mental health and its impact on the health of Canadian immigrants, with a specific focus on immigrants' mental health and the healthy immigrant effect. Methods: For this integrative review, two comprehensive literature searches were conducted in the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to July 2024. The review adhered to Whittemore and Knafl's integrative methodology, with the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool used to assess the quality of the studies. Results: A total of 42 and 34 scientific articles were included from the first and second literature searches, respectively. Four main themes emerged from the literature: (1) food insecurity and mental health, (2) obesity and mental health, (3) diet quality and mental health, and (4) the gut microbiome and mental health. These themes were explored in the context of Canadian immigrants' health. Conclusions: The health of immigrants to Canada is likely shaped by complex, bidirectional interactions among various determinants of health, influencing both physical and mental well-being. As newcomers are expected to form an increasing proportion of the Canadian population, further research is needed to understand how the interaction between nutrition and mental health can help promote and safeguard the health of Canadian immigrants.

Possible sarcopenia (PS) and depression are prevalent among middle-aged and older adults. However, few studies have evaluated the causal association between depression and PS, as well as its components. This study conducted both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses to explore the relationship between PS and depression in a population aged 45 and oledr. We evaluated the association between PS and its components with depression using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). PS was assessed according to the Asian Working Group for sarcopenia gudielines established in 2019 (AWGS 2019). Depression was measured by the validated 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D.10), with a cut-off score of 12 or higher indicating the presence of depression. 10,058 participants included in cross-sectional study and 5,726 participants without depression from the same cohort in 2011 were followed through 2020. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were employed to assess the association between PS and its components with depression. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) model was utilized to evaluate dose-response relationshipbetween muscle strength and physical performance with depression, and subgroup analyses were performed to validate the robustness of the findings. Cross-sectional analysis revealed that the prevalence of PS among middle-aged and older adults was 32.84% (3,303/10,058). Both PS (OR:1.47,95%CI:1.34-1.63), low muscle strength (LMS) (OR:1.46,95%CI:1.24-1.71) and low physical performance (LPP) (OR:1.45,95%CI:1.31-1.61) exhibited higher odds of depression after adjusting covariates. 1515 cases (26.46%) of incident depression were identified during the 9-years follow-up. Subjects with PS (HR:1.10,95%CI:1.01-1.19), LMS (HR:1.16,95%CI:1.01-1.34) and LPP (HR:1.08,95%CI:1.01-1.18) were at an elevated risk of new-onset depression compared to those without these conditions. The RCS analysis demonstrated a non-linear relationship between muscle strength and physical performance with depression (p > 0.05). Participants aged 50-59, married, with education below middle school, living in rural areas, non-smokers or non-drinkers, sleeping less than 8 hours, and classified as obese exhibited an increased risk in subgroup analysis. (all p <  0.05). PS, LMS and LPP were indentified as independent risk factors for new-onset depression. It is essential to assess muscle strength and physical performance in community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults using simple and feasible objective measures to enhance depression screening.

Physical symptoms and emotional distress, such as melancholy, are common among cancer survivors. Misinterpreting these as normal reactions delays depression diagnosis and worsens prognosis. Patients may hide depressive symptoms during treatment, whereas clinicians and families often dismiss them as expected disease adaptation. Emerging evidence links depression to inflammatory responses and symptoms such as fatigue/cognitive decline to hypoxia, suggesting relevance of the Red Cell Index (RCI).

To identify depression risk factors in cancer survivors and evaluate RCI as a potential biomarker.

We included and analyzed 2890 patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database in this study. The 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire was used to evaluate the depressive symptoms. We employed multivariable logistic regression and stratified analyses to evaluate the association between RCI and depressive symptoms.

Higher RCI inversely correlated with depression risk in unadjusted analysis, persisting after full adjustment. Subgroup findings were consistent. A significant nonlinear RCI-depression connection was found by dose-response analysis.

As the RCI increased, the likelihood of depression in patients diagnosed with cancer decreased. Nevertheless, cross-sectional studies can merely establish the link, necessitating further research to validate causality and assess the practicality of clinical use.

Possible connections between hematological markers and depression symptoms are revealed by this investigation. The RCI-depression correlation offers new perspectives for nursing practice. For cancer survivor care, integrating validated hematological indicators into assessments alongside monitoring physical/psychological symptoms is recommended. Future research should prioritize RCI-depression risk assessment and early interventions in oncology patients.

Bipolar disorder is a severe mental disorder that necessitates effective long-term treatment strategies. Clinically, lithium has demonstrated favorable outcomes in managing this condition. The inflammatory theory posits that bipolar disorder is influenced by an inflammatory response, and lithium is thought to mitigate this disorder by inhibiting such responses. In terms of the pharmacodynamics of blocking inflammatory mediators, lithium mainly acts on GSK-3β. Upon interaction with GSK-3β, lithium can suppress the gene expression of inflammatory mediators, subsequently reducing their secretion. This mechanism influences multiple downstream pathways, ultimately contributing to the therapeutic effects observed in bipolar disorder. Specifically, these pathways include the arachidonic acid pathway, nitric oxide synthase pathway, neurotransmitter pathway, and so on. This article reviews the pharmacodynamic targets and mechanisms of lithium, offering insights into the appropriate clinical application of lithium and the advancement of lithium pharmacotherapies.

Hepatitis B is a highly contagious viral infection that has long been a significant global health concern. Given its adverse effects on the course of the disease, evaluating psychiatric outcomes is important. Despite indications of an increased risk of psychological outcomes among those with hepatitis B, the extent of this association remains unclear.

This PRISMA-adherent systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42024564246) searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and PsycINFO for all studies evaluating the prevalence and risk of anxiety and depressive symptoms in individuals with hepatitis B. Random effects meta-analyses and meta-regression were used for primary analysis.

A total of 31 studies were included. We identified a high prevalence of depressive symptoms (Proportion=19%, 95% CI: 11-31) and anxiety (Proportion=30%, 95% CI: 18-45) among individuals with hepatitis B. There was also a significantly increased risk of depressive symptoms (RR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.00-2.09, P=0.049) and anxiety (RR=1.40, 95% CI: 1.11-1.78) in individuals with hepatitis B compared to controls. Subgroup analyses indicated that older age and chronic hepatitis B infection were associated with a higher prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms. The systematic review found that being single, unemployed, having a lower income, a lower education level, high comorbidities, and a family history of mental illness were significant risk factors for poorer psychological outcomes.

Our study highlights an increased vulnerability to anxiety and depressive symptoms among individuals with hepatitis B. We emphasize the urgent need for early detection and additional support for this at-risk group.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024564246.

This study aims to investigate the genetic link between mental disorders-depression, schizophrenia (SCZ), and bipolar disorder (BIP)-and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

We first examined the genetic associations between AAA and mental disorders by analyzing global and local genetic correlations as well as shared genomic loci. Global genetic correlation was assessed using linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and the GeNetic cOVariance Analyzer (GNOVA), while local genetic correlation was analyzed using the SUPERGNOVA approach. To identify shared genetic variants, the pleiotropy-informed conditional and conjunctional false discovery rate (pleioFDR) method was applied. Subsequently, the univariate Mendelian Randomization (UMR) was employed to evaluate the causal relationship, complemented by multivariate MR (MVMR) to account for potential confounding biases. Additionally, mediation analysis was performed to determine whether known risk factors mediate the identified causal relationships.

Global correlations showed positive links between depression, SCZ, and AAA, but not BIP. Local analyses identified specific genomic regions of correlation. We found 26, 141, and 10 shared loci for AAA with depression, SCZ, and BIP, respectively. UMR indicated significant associations between genetically predicted depression (OR 1.270; 95 % CI 1.071-1.504; p = 0.006) and SCZ (OR 1.047; 95 % CI 1.010-1.084; p = 0.011) with AAA, but not BIP. These results were confirmed by MVMR analyses. Mediation analyses showed that smoking, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary atherosclerosis mediated the impact of depression on AAA while smoking mediated SCZ's impact.

This study provides evidence that genetically predicted depression and SCZ are linked to an increased risk of AAA, mediated by traditional AAA risk factors.

Following the discovery of bone as an endocrine organ with systemic influence, bone-brain interaction has emerged as a research hotspot, unveiling complex bidirectional communication between bone and brain. Studies indicate that bone and brain can influence each other's homeostasis via multiple pathways, yet there is a dearth of systematic reviews in this area. This review comprehensively examines interactions across three key areas: the influence of bone-derived factors on brain function, the effects of brain-related diseases or injuries (BRDI) on bone health, and the concept of skeletal interoception. Additionally, the review discusses innovative approaches in biomaterial design inspired by bone-brain interaction mechanisms, aiming to facilitate bone-brain interactions through materiobiological effects to aid in the treatment of neurodegenerative and bone-related diseases. Notably, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in biomaterial design is highlighted, showcasing AI's role in expediting the formulation of effective and targeted treatment strategies. In conclusion, this review offers vital insights into the mechanisms of bone-brain interaction and suggests advanced approaches to harness these interactions in clinical practice. These insights offer promising avenues for preventing and treating complex diseases impacting the skeleton and brain, underscoring the potential of interdisciplinary approaches in enhancing human health.

The heterogeneity of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has been increasingly recognized, challenging traditional symptom-based diagnostics and the development of mechanism-targeted therapies. This study aims to identify neuroimaging-based MDD subtypes and dissect their predominant biological characteristics using multi-omics data. A total of 807 participants were included in this study, comprising 327 individuals with MDD and 480 healthy controls (HC). The amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF), a functional neuroimaging feature, was extracted for each participant and used to identify MDD subtypes through machine learning clustering. Multi-omics data, including profiles of genetic, epigenetics, metabolomics, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, were obtained. Comparative analyses of multi-omics data were conducted between each MDD subtype and HC to explore the molecular underpinnings involved in each subtype. We identified three neuroimaging-based MDD subtypes, each characterized by unique ALFF pattern alterations compared to HC. Multi-omics analysis showed a strong genetic predisposition for Subtype 1, primarily enriched in neuronal development and synaptic regulation pathways. This subtype also exhibited the most severe depressive symptoms and cognitive decline compared to the other subtypes. Subtype 2 is characterized by immuno-inflammation dysregulation, supported by elevated IL-1 beta levels, altered epigenetic inflammatory measures, and differential metabolites correlated with IL-1 beta levels. No significant biological markers were identified for Subtype 3. Our results identify neuroimaging-based MDD subtypes and delineate the distinct biological features of each subtype. This provides a proof of concept for mechanism-targeted therapy in MDD, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment approaches based on neurobiological and molecular profiles.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. While traditional pharmacological treatments are effective for many cases, a significant proportion of patients do not achieve full remission or experience side effects. Nutritional interventions hold promise as an alternative or adjunctive approach, especially for treatment-resistant depression. This review examines the potential role of nutrition in managing MDD through addressing biological deficits and modulating pathways relevant to its pathophysiology. Specifically, it explores the ketogenic diet and gut microbiome modulation through various methods, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation. Numerous studies link dietary inadequacies to increased MDD risk and deficiencies in nutrients like omega-3 s, vitamins D and B, magnesium, and zinc. These deficiencies impact neurotransmitters, inflammation, and other biological factors in MDD. The gut-brain axis also regulates mood, stress response, and immunity, and disruptions are implicated in MDD. While medications aid acute symptoms, nutritional strategies may improve long-term outcomes by preventing relapse and promoting sustained remission. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into nutrition's multifaceted relationship with MDD and its potential for developing more effective integrated treatment approaches.

This research aims to explore the relationship between somatization and minority stress in the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary, building on the biopsychosocial model, addressing the unique health challenges of the community and expanding the currently limited literature on the subject. The study involved adult, LGBTQ+, Hungarian individuals, and it assessed somatic symptom severity using the Patient Health Questionnaire-15. Ordinal logistic regressions were carried out, using multiple covariates and factors. Our findings shows that women reported higher somatic symptoms and stress levels, however, these effects are moderate among those living in the capital. The influence of residence type on the individual's psychosomatic health was proven to depend on their sexual orientations and gender identities. Additionally, older respondents, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, seem to experience less somatic symptoms and stress. The gender respondents identify with, their type of residency, and age have been demonstrated as the most significant factors influencing somatic symptoms and perceived stress. As one of the pioneering studies on psychosomatic symptoms in sexual and gender minorities in Hungary, this research underscores the imperative to academically and practically address the health concerns of the LGBTQ+ community.

Previous investigations have indicated that both sarcopenia and depressive symptoms are linked to a heightened risk of falls. However, the potential synergistic effect of these conditions on fall risk remains unclear. This study aims to assess the combined influence of sarcopenia and depressive symptoms on the occurrence of falls in the Chinese population.

The analysis included 8,405 participants from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), conducted from 2011 to 2015. Sarcopenia was confirmed using the 2019 Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) algorithm consisting of muscle strength, appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), and physical performance. ASM was calculated using the formula: 0.193 × weight (kg) + 0.107 × height (cm) - 4.157 × sex - 0.037 × age (years) - 2.631. The Center for Epidemiological Research Depression Scale was utilized to assess depressive symptoms, with a cut-off score of 12 points. Depressive sarcopenia is defined as the coexistence of sarcopenia and depression. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the associations among sarcopenia, depressive symptoms, and fall occurrences.

During the four-year follow-up, 1,275 participants reported experiencing falls. A significant synergistic effect was identified between sarcopenia and depressive symptoms regarding fall risk. Compare to robust individuals, those with sarcopenia alone or depression alone had increased falls risks, but those with both conditions exhibited the highest fall risk, with adjusted odds ratios (OR) of 1.21 (95% CI 1.03, 1.42; P = 0.0174), 1.53 (95% CI 1.24, 1.88; P < 0.001), and 1.78 (95% CI 1.48, 2.15; P < 0.001), respectively.

The findings highlight a synergistic effect between sarcopenia and depressive symptoms on fall risk. This study highlights the importance of early detection and intervention for both conditions, especially in older and middle-aged individuals, to mitigate fall risk.

Depressive disorder, particularly major depressive disorder (MDD), significantly impact individuals and society. Traditional analysis methods often suffer from subjectivity and may not capture complex, non-linear relationships between risk factors. Machine learning (ML) offers a data-driven approach to predict and diagnose depression more accurately by analyzing large and complex datasets.

This study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2014 to predict depression using six supervised ML models: Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Naive Bayes, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Extreme Gradient Boost (XGBoost), and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM). Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), with a score of 10 or higher indicating moderate to severe depression. The dataset was split into training and testing sets (80% and 20%, respectively), and model performance was evaluated using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, AUC, and F1 score. SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) values were used to identify the critical risk factors and interpret the contributions of each feature to the prediction.

XGBoost was identified as the best-performing model, achieving the highest accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, AUC, and F1 score. SHAP analysis highlighted the most significant predictors of depression: the ratio family income to poverty (PIR), sex, hypertension, serum cotinine and hydroxycotine, BMI, education level, glucose levels, age, marital status, and renal function (eGFR).

We developed ML models to predict depression and utilized SHAP for interpretation. This approach identifies key factors associated with depression, encompassing socioeconomic, demographic, and health-related aspects.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder potentially influenced by factors such as stress and inflammation. Chronic stress can lead to maladaptive brain changes that may trigger immune hyperactivation, contributing to MDD's pathogenesis. While the involvement of inflammation in MDD is well established, the effects of inflammatory preconditioning in animals subsequently exposed to chronic stress remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of inflammatory preconditioning on behavioral, biochemical, and molecular changes in adult male Swiss mice subjected to chronic restraint stress (CRS). The mice received a single injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 24 h before thefirst CRS and performed 6 h daily for 28 days. Behavioral tests were conducted 24 h after the last CRS, across 4 days, and euthanasia followed 24 h after the final tests. Results indicated that only the LPS + CRS group exhibited depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors, accompanied by demotivation and apathy. Biochemical and molecular analyses revealed anoxidative imbalance in the hippocampus, marked by elevated H2O2 levels and MPO activity. In the prefrontal cortex, theLPS + CRS group demonstrated a central inflammatory imbalance, with reduced IL-10 levels, increased Iba1 gene expression, and decreased Gfap and Bdnf gene expression. A trend toward elevated IL-17 levels was also observed at the peripheral level. These findings indicate that inflammatory preconditioning contributes significantly to behaviors phenotypically associated with MDD. Furthermore, the study suggests that these behavioral changes are linked to a dysfunctional immune response and impaired neuroplasticity.

Antenatal depression (AD) is one of the most common pregnancy complications. Recent studies indicated that immune responses during pregnancy may contribute to development of AD.

This study aimed to identify possible inflammatory biomarkers in early pregnancy to predict maternal depressive symptoms before delivery.

This case-control study was conducted within the Maternal and Infant Health (MI-Health) birth cohort (Beijing, China) and depressive symptoms were assessed by Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) in both second and third trimesters. By using immune multi-factors kits, we tested 26 inflammatory factors in the serum of 38 cases with antenatal depression symptoms in both trimesters (SDS ≥ 53) and 38 controls. Logistic regression was used to identify candidate biomarkers, and the predictive capabilities were evaluated by using Receiver Operator Characteristics (ROC) analysis.

The concentrations of ln(CCL24) (p = 0.020), IL-7 (p = 0.006) and IL-10 (p = 0.014) were higher in early pregnancy among women with depressive symptoms comparing to healthy controls. The difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for maternal age, education level, gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weeks of blood sampling (OR(ln(CCL24)) = 4.625, OR(IL-7) = 1.414, OR(IL-10) = 1.151). In ROC analysis, ln(CCL24), IL-7, and IL-10 achieved discrimination for depressive symptoms antepartum, with the values of AUC estimated at 0.75.

The sample size is limited, and the infectious disease infection records were not collected for control.

Higher levels of CCL24, IL-7 and IL-10 may indicate the higher risk of antenatal depression and are potential biomarkers indicating pathogenesis of antenatal depression.

Depression is a pervasive mental illness that has a significant impact on public health globally. This study aimed to identify risk factors for depression and elucidate their causal relationships.

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). Serum ApoB was log-transformed and further divided into 4 groups. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between serum ApoB and depression. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests were used to observe the stability of the association between them. Smooth curve fitting was used to investigate nonlinear correlations. The causal effect of serum ApoB on depression was assessed using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

A total of 6531 participated in the study. After adjusting for all covariates, serum ApoB levels were positively associated with depression after adjustment for all covariates (OR = 1.40, 95 % CI = 1.06-1.84; P = 0.0176). Unfortunately, there was no significant causal relationship between serum ApoB and depression (OR = 0.9985,95 % CI = 0.9962-1.0008; P = 0.1923). Sensitivity analysis verified the reliability of the results.

Serum ApoB was positively associated with an increased risk of depression, but MR analysis did not show a genetic causal relationship between ApoB and depression. Based on the results of the current study, no indication maintaining high levels of ApoB contributes to the management of depression.

The main limitation of this study is the inconsistency of the cross-sectional study and the MR population.

Prenatal and postpartum depression may be influenced by the composition of host associated microbiomes. As such, the objective of this study was to elucidate the relationship between the human gut or vaginal microbiomes in pregnancy with prenatal or postpartum depression.

140 female participants were recruited at their first prenatal visit and completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to screen for depression and anxiety, in addition the EPDS was completed one month postpartum. Vaginal and stool biospecimens were collected in the third trimester, analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and assessed for alpha and beta diversity. Individual taxa differences and clustering using the k-medoids algorithm enabled community state type classification.

Participants with higher postpartum EPDS scores had higher species richness and lower abundance of L. crispatus in the vaginal microbiota compared to those with lower EPDS scores. Participants with a higher prenatal EPDS score had lower species richness of the gut microbiome. Participants with a vaginal community state type dominated by L. iners had the highest mean prenatal EPDS scores, whereas postpartum EPDS scores were similar regardless of prenatal vaginal state type.

Our small sample size and participant's self-report bias limits generalizability of results.

Depression in the prenatal and postpartum period is associated with the composition and diversity of the gut and vaginal microbiomes in the third trimester of pregnancy. These results provide a foundational understanding of the microbial relationships between maternal health and depression for identifying potential therapeutic treatments.

The global population of older people, who have a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases, is on an upward trajectory, notably in South Africa. The expansion of this demographic will further strain an already overwhelmed healthcare system, primarily taxed by infectious diseases in younger populations. Physical activity has been shown to effectively reduce risk factors for non-communicable diseases in older people.

To investigate the associations between depression, body mass index (BMI) and physical activity and its complex interplay on non-communicable diseases in older people residing in South African long-term care facilities.

We conducted a cross-sectional study on 396 participants residing in South African rural and urban long-term care facilities to analyse BMI, waist-hip ratio, physical activity and depression levels. The Geriatric Depression Scale and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to evaluate depression and physical activity respectively.

The sample had a mean BMI of 27.53 kg/m2 (95% CI [26.99, 28.07], SD = 5.49), with an obesity prevalence of 31.82%. Additionally, 35.10% of participants exhibited some degree of depressive symptoms. In an ordinal regression model BMI was a significant predictor (B = .10, p = .007) for increases in depression. Conversely in a linear regression model, depression (B = -2.01, p = .004) and physical activity (B = -.001, p = .008) were predictors for decreases in BMI.

The relationship between depression and BMI in older people is complex, with depression often leading to both weight loss and, conversely, increased BMI contributing to a higher risk of depression. Physical activity serves as a critical intervention, helping to reduce both BMI and depressive symptoms among older people residing in long-term care facilities. This underscores the importance of integrating PA programs into care strategies to improve overall health and well-being in this population.

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between sarcopenia components and depressed mood in community-dwelling adults aged 70-84 years from the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study. Depressed mood was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale short form. Logistic regression was used to examine sex-specific associations between sarcopenia components and depressed mood. Among 1,913 participants (mean age: 75.9 years, 49.0% women), 12.2% and 23.6% had depressed mood and sarcopenia, respectively. Sarcopenia prevalence increased among individuals with depressed mood in both sexes (men: P < 0.001; women: P = 0.016). Severe sarcopenia (men: OR, 3.620; 95% CI, 1.634-8.022; women OR, 3.332; 95% CI, 1.689-6.574) and concurrent low muscle strength and physical performance (men: OR, 3.660; 95% CI, 1.541-8.691; women: OR, 2.333; 95% CI, 1.294-4.206) correlated with depressed mood across sexes. The co-occurrence of low muscle mass and muscle strength (OR, 2.451; 95% CI, 1.007-5.964) was associated with depressed mood in men, whereas low physical performance (OR, 2.007; 95% CI, 1.275-3.160) and the coexistence of low muscle mass and physical performance (OR, 1.804; 95% CI, 1.003-3.248) correlated with depressed mood in women. Sarcopenia and depressed mood were significantly associated among older adults, underscoring the need to account for sex-specific differences in sarcopenia components when evaluating mental health outcomes to tailor interventions targeting sarcopenia and improve the mental well-being of aging populations.

Depression is commonly associated with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, such as constipation, which can potentially intensify depressive symptoms. The interplay between these conditions is believed to be facilitated by the gut-brain axis, which suggests a complex bidirectional interaction. Current treatments, such as antidepressants and prokinetics, are often associated with side effects and high recurrence rates, highlighting the need for effective treatments targeting both depression and constipation. This study was designed to assess the therapeutic efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) in conjunction with Tongbian decoction (TB) for the management of both depression and constipation, while also investigating the underlying mechanisms through the lens of the gut-brain axis. Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was employed to induce a comorbidity model of depression and constipation in mice, followed by the administration of EA, EA + TB, and fluoxetine (FLX). The findings of the study demonstrated that the antidepressant effects of electroacupuncture (EA) in combination with Tongbian decoction (TB) were more pronounced than those of EA alone. The EA + TB treatment significantly ameliorated depression and anxiety-like behaviors, restored cognitive function, and enhanced gastrointestinal motility in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mice. Furthermore, EA + TB reduced intestinal inflammation, restored neuronal morphology, increased the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in both the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and colon, elevated the serum levels of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)-a molecule that acts as a gut-brain connector-and promoted the synthesis and production of serotonin (5-HT) in both the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. Contrastingly, FLX showed limited efficacy in improving constipation. In conclusion, EA + TB regulates the TPH2/5-HT pathway via the gut-brain axis, demonstrating synergistic regulation of the nervous and gastrointestinal systems, with favorable antidepressant and prokinetic effects.

this paper aims to present the evidence for the role of diet in the prevention and treatment of depression, review the potential underlying mechanisms and provide practice recommendations for mental health clinicians.

A literature review was conducted through searches of PubMed with the search terms 'depression', 'diet', 'prevention', 'treatment' and 'mechanisms' and combinations thereof. Additional articles were identified through hand searching.

Greater adherence to several healthy dietary patterns, traditional diets such as the Mediterranean diet and other diets such as the DASH diet are associated with or can treat symptoms of depression. Several limitations of the research were noted, many of which relate to inherent challenges of studying diet. Mechanisms by which dietary intervention can influence mood include the gut microbiome, modulation of inflammatory processes, reduction in oxidative stress and modulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function. Recommendations for mental health clinicians to enable translation of the evidence into practice are provided.

Diet can play an important role in preventing and treating depression. Mental health clinicians are well placed to provide dietary counselling and to use clinical judgement in choosing the specific approach that reflects the needs of the patient but are encouraged to refer to a specialist dietitian where necessary.

Chronic stress is a common trigger of multiple neuropsychiatric illnesses. Animal models are widely used to study stress-induced brain disorders and their interplay with neuroinflammation and other neuroimmune processes. Here, we apply the prolonged 12-week chronic unpredictable stress (PCUS) model to examine rat behavioral and hippocampal transcriptomic responses to stress and to chronic 4-week treatment with a classical antidepressant fluoxetine, an anti-inflammatory agent eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a pro-inflammatory agent lipopolysaccharide and their combinations. Overall, PCUS evoked anxiety-like behavioral phenotype in rats, corrected by chronic fluoxetine (alone or combined with other drugs), and EPA. PCUS also evoked pronounced transcriptomic responses in rat hippocampi, involving > 200 differentially expressed genes. While pharmacological manipulations did not affect hippocampal gene expression markedly, Gpr6, Drd2 and Adora2a were downregulated in stressed rats treated with fluoxetine, EPA and fluoxetine + EPA, suggesting their respective protein products (G protein-coupled receptor 6, dopamine D2 receptor and adenosine A2A receptor) as potential evolutionarily conserved targets under chronic stress. Overall, these findings support the validity of rat PCUS paradigm as a useful model to study stress-related anxiety pathogenesis, and call for further research probing how various conventional and novel drugs may (co)modulate behavioral and neurotranscriptomic biomarkers of chronic stress.

Evidence is scarce on the mechanisms involved in the relationship between dietary inflammatory index and mental health in adolescents. This study aimed to assess the association between children-DII (C-DII) and depressive and anxiety disorder symptoms in adolescents and to explore whether inflammation and cardiometabolic risk factors mediate this association.

The study was conducted at the Ankara City Hospital Pediatrics Polyclinic and 304 adolescents. In cross-sectional study, adolescents were asked general information questions. Anthropometric measurements were performed and some biochemical parameters and inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP)) were obtained. The C-DII score was calculated from 24-h dietary recalls. Depression and anxiety levels of the participants were assessed by self-report. Structural equation modelling analyzed how cardiometabolic risk factors and inflammation mediate the relationship between mental health and dietary inflammation.

C-DII scores were positively associated with depression and anxiety score (β [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 0.224 [0.08-0.25] for depression; 0.923 [0.04-1.67] for anxiety). Except for dietary inflammation with anxiety in girls, these relationships remained statistically significant in all subgroups by sex. It was determined that CRP partially mediated the relationship between dietary inflammation and depression and anxiety. It was determined that body mass index (BMI)-z score and waist circumference (WC) mediated the relationship between dietary inflammation and depression scores.

Our findings indicate that the higher pro-inflammatory potential of diet is associated with a higher risk of depression and anxiety, and this association may be mediated by CRP for depression and anxiety, WC, and BMI-z score for only depression. Further research is required to verify our findings and clarify the latent mechanism in larger populations.