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Almulla AF, Algon AAA, Maes M. Adverse childhood experiences and recent negative events are associated with activated immune and growth factor pathways, the phenome of first episode major depression and suicidal behaviors. Psychiatry Res 2024; 334:115812. [PMID: 38442479 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
This research assessed the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and negative life events (NLEs) on forty-eight cytokines/chemokines/growth factors, in 71 FE-MDMD patients and forty heathy controls. ACEs are highly significantly associated with the classical M1 macrophage, T helper (Th)-1, Th-1 polarization, IRS, and neurotoxicity immune profiles, and not with the alternative M2, and Th-2 immune profiles. There are highly significant correlations between ACEs and NLEs and different cytokines/chemokines/growth factors, especially with interleukin (IL)-16, CCL27, stem cell growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor. Partial Least Squares analysis showed that 62.3 % of the variance in the depression phenome (based on severity of depression, anxiety and suicidal behaviors) was explained by the regression on IL-4 (p = 0.001, inversely), the sum of ACEs + NLEs (p < 0.0001), and a vector extracted from 10 cytokines/chemokines/growth factors (p < 0.0001; both positively associated). The latter partially mediated (p < 0.0001) the effects of ACE + NLEs on the depression phenome. In conclusion, part of the effects of ACEs and NLEs on the depression phenome is mediated via activation of immune and growth factor networks. These pathways have a stronger impact in subjects with lowered activities of the compensatory immune-regulatory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas F Almulla
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand; Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Ali Abbas Abo Algon
- Research Group of Organic Synthesis and Catalysis, University of Pannonia, Egyetem u. 10, 8200 Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Michael Maes
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand; Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Research Institute, Medical University Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea.
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Tyrell FA, Wang YS, Eboigbe LI, Skeeter BD. A multisystem model for understanding stress and adaptation in ethnically and racially diverse youth. Dev Psychopathol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38506061 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579424000592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Contemporary biological and contextually based theoretical frameworks have conceptualized how stress exposure may influence adaptation in youth. However, nearly all of this scholarship neglects the role of specific contextual features and/or biological processes that are involved in ethnic-racial minority youth's responses and adaptation to sociocultural stressors. Drawing on the theoretical principles of the developmental psychopathology framework and contemporary models of stress and adaptation, this article proposes a new multisystem model that explains how multiple levels and systems within and outside of individual youth influence their sociocultural adaptation. We provide empirical evidence to support components of this multisystem model. We propose that research based on our new theoretical framework will capture the sociocultural experiences of ethnic-racial minority youth by centering processes that are relevant to their lived experiences, coping, and adjustment. In doing so, this model will inform psychosocial interventions focused on promoting healthy adaptation among ethnic and racial diverse youth. Finally, we offer recommendations to guide future research on stress and adaptation among ethnic and racial diverse youth, in particular, and developmental psychopathology more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanita A Tyrell
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Yuqi S Wang
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Loretta I Eboigbe
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Bailey D Skeeter
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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Wang M, Li T, Xie Y, Zhang D, Qu Y, Zhai S, Mou X, Yang Y, Zou L, Tao S, Tao F, Wu X. Clustered health risk behaviors with comorbid symptoms of anxiety and depression in young adults: Moderating role of inflammatory cytokines. J Affect Disord 2024; 345:335-341. [PMID: 37898475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with multiple health risk behaviors (HRBs) are at higher risk for psychological problems, and vice versa. However, the mechanisms underlying this association remain unknown. METHOD We collected questionnaire and blood sample data from 2 universities in Anhui and Jiangxi Provinces. Demographic information, HRBs and blood samples were collected at baseline. Depression/anxiety symptoms were collected using questionnaires at follow-up. Latent class analysis was used to explore clustered HRBs pattern, and logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between clustered HRBs quantity, pattern and anxiety-depression symptoms comorbidity. The Mplus software was used to analyze the moderating effects of inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS Compared to the HRB low-risk group, the substance dependence group (OR: 1.89, 95%CI: 1.11-3.21) and sedentary group (OR: 2.98, 95%CI: 1.48-6.02) had a higher risk of anxiety-depression comorbid symptoms. Compared to participants with no clustered HRBs, participants with 2 HRBs (OR: 2.16 95%CI: 1.17-4.00) and >3 HRBs (OR: 3.55, 95%CI: 1.68-7.48) were more likely to suffer from comorbid symptoms of anxiety and depression. Moreover, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10 had negative moderating effects between clustered HRBs pattern and comorbid symptoms of anxiety and depression. LIMITATIONS Recall bias may exist for anxiety / depression symptoms, and cannot exclude unmeasured confounders or the effect of residual confounding. CONCLUSIONS This study finds clustered HRBs have a significant impact on mental health among young adults, and inflammatory cytokine evidence supports a negative moderating effect on the relationship. Interventions that decrease clustered HRBs may support mental health development in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yang Xie
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yang Qu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shuang Zhai
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xingyue Mou
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yajuan Yang
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, 15 Feicui Road, Hefei 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Liwei Zou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Shuman Tao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; MOE Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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4
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Maayan L, Maayan M. Inflammatory mediation of the relationship between early adversity and major depressive disorder: A systematic review. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 169:364-377. [PMID: 38154266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Early adverse experience is related to psychiatric illness that occurs decades later. The mechanisms underlying this phenomenon have not been fully identified. There is a translational and clinical literature linking early adversity with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and inflammation. We reviewed articles that examine whether inflammation mediates this relationship. METHODS Literature review of PUB MED, CINAHL and APA Psycinfo articles that explicitly examine inflammation as a mediator between early adversity and depression using ((((((((((adversity) OR (trauma)) OR (maltreatment)) OR (child abuse)) AND (inflammation)) OR (inflammatory cytokines)) OR (crp)) OR (il-6)) OR (tnf)) AND (mediates)) AND (depression))))))))) as key words. RESULTS 2842 articles were initially identified. 1338 non-human studies were excluded and 512 more were filtered out as reviews. The remaining 992 titles and, when necessary, abstracts and manuscripts were reviewed and 956 were removed as being of other non-related phenomena. Four additional studies were added by hand searching the references of remaining studies. Out of these 40, 15 explicitly examined inflammation as a mediator of the relationship between early adversity and later depression. Approximately half (8/15) showed evidence that inflammation mediated the relationship between early adversity and depression. Sensitivity analyses showed that studies taking place in clinical populations, in youth and those that used the Adverse Childhood Events Scale to measure adversity, and IL-6 and TNF-α (as opposed to CRP) to measure inflammation were most likely to show mediation. CONCLUSIONS There is evidence to support the model of inflammation mediating the relationship between early adversity and depression. Certain measures in clinical populations appear more likely to support this model. Further study with more standardized, robust methods will help to answer this question more definitively and may elucidate a subtype of depression related to early adversity by alterations in immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Maayan
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Michal Maayan
- Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, USA
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Roberts E, Francesconi M, Flouri E. The role of inflammation in the effects of peer victimisation and stressful life events on mental health in childhood. Brain Behav Immun Health 2023; 34:100695. [PMID: 37964767 PMCID: PMC10641088 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Peer victimisation represents a salient stressor during childhood. However, studies investigating the mechanism of its impact on children's mental health typically examine socio-cognitive factors as mediators. The current study sought to provide novel insight through testing a potential biological mechanism, inflammation. It also tested for pathway-specific effects by comparing how inflammation may mediate the effect of peer victimisation and that of another important stressor in childhood: adverse life events. Method Data from 4,583 participants of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) were used. Path analysis was carried out to investigate whether inflammation (IL-6 and CRP) at age 9 years mediates the effect of peer victimisation and stressful life events at age 8 years on internalising (peer and emotional) or externalising (hyperactivity and conduct) problems (measured at age 11 years), both before and after adjustment for potential confounders. Results IL-6 partially mediated the effect of peer victimisation on peer problems, even after adjustment for potential confounders. Inflammation did not mediate the effect of stressful life events on either type of internalising problems. Neither stressor predicted externalising problems via inflammation. Conclusion We did not find evidence that inflammation mediates the effect of stressful life events on mental health in childhood when they are considered alongside experiences of peer victimisation. Inflammation may already represent a form of biological embedding of peer victimisation in the early years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Roberts
- Department of Arts and Sciences, University College London, Malet Place, London, NW1 6AP, UK
| | - Marta Francesconi
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, 25 Woburn Square, London, WC1H 0AA, UK
| | - Eirini Flouri
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, 25 Woburn Square, London, WC1H 0AA, UK
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Francesconi M, Minichino A, Flouri E. The role of mild stressors in children's cognition and inflammation: positive and negative impacts depend on timing of exposure. Eur Psychiatry 2023; 66:e95. [PMID: 37881843 PMCID: PMC10755563 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.2468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the impact of stressful life events (SLEs) on mental health is well-established, the research on the impact of such stressors on cognitive outcomes has produced mixed results. Arguably, the timing and severity of exposure may play a key role. In this study, we shed light on the relationship between timing of exposure to relatively minor SLEs and cognitive ability in children, while taking into account the role of a plausible biological mediator: inflammation. Using data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a general population birth cohort, we explored the role of relatively minor SLEs, experienced during two crucial developmental stages: up to transition to school (1-4.5 years) and up to transition to puberty (5.5-8.5 years). We then tested if they may impact differently on inflammatory markers (serum C-reactive protein [CRP] and interleukin 6 [IL-6]) at age 9 and general intelligence, measured with the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence at age 15. Data (n = 4,525) were analyzed using path analysis while controlling for covariates. We found that when relatively minor stressful events were experienced up to transition to school they were significantly associated with higher IQ at age 15, whereas when experienced up to transition to puberty they were significantly associated with higher levels of IL-6 at age 9. Results were robust to adjustment for relevant covariates, including IQ at age 8. Mild stressors in childhood may result in positive (i.e., improved cognition) or negative (i.e., inflammation) outcomes depending on the timing of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Francesconi
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Eirini Flouri
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
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7
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Patlola SR, Donohoe G, McKernan DP. Counting the Toll of Inflammation on Schizophrenia-A Potential Role for Toll-like Receptors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1188. [PMID: 37627253 PMCID: PMC10452856 DOI: 10.3390/biom13081188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that are ubiquitously expressed in the human body. They protect the brain and central nervous system from self and foreign antigens/pathogens. The immune response elicited by these receptors culminates in the release of cytokines, chemokines, and interferons causing an inflammatory response, which can be both beneficial and harmful to neurodevelopment. In addition, the detrimental effects of TLR activation have been implicated in multiple neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, etc. Many studies also support the theory that cytokine imbalance may be involved in schizophrenia, and a vast amount of literature showcases the deleterious effects of this imbalance on cognitive performance in the human population. In this review, we examine the current literature on TLRs, their potential role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, factors affecting TLR activity that contribute towards the risk of schizophrenia, and lastly, the role of TLRs and their impact on cognitive performance in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saahithh Redddi Patlola
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Gary Donohoe
- School of Psychology, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Declan P. McKernan
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
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8
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Śmiarowska M, Pawlicka M, Boroń A, Grzywacz A, Safranow K, Chlubek D, Dziedziejko V. Association between Psychopathological Symptoms and Aggression and Selected Biochemical Parameters in Adolescents with Behavioural and Emotional Disturbances. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087097. [PMID: 37108259 PMCID: PMC10139169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioural and emotional disturbances (F92.8) are the most recognized disorders in a developmental psychiatry. As the problem is still alarmingly increasing, the searches for their etiopathogenesis and more effective preventing and therapy methods are required. The aim of the study was to assess the association between the quality of life, some psychopathological features, concentrations of selected immunoprotective (brain-derived neurotrophin, BDNF), and endocrine (cortisol, F) factors while adolescent disturbances. The study was performed in 123 inpatients of a psychiatric ward with F92.8 diagnosis, aged 13-18 years. The complete patients' interview, physical examination, and routine laboratory tests, including serum F and BDNF tests, were performed. All patients completed standardized questionnaires to estimate: the severity of psychopathological symptoms (SCL-90), the level of aggression (Buss-Perry). The changes in the plasma BDNF and F concentrations were shown in patients raised in foster homes and institutions. The significantly lower BDNF was observed in youth from foster and suicide-experienced families. The more severe psychopathological symptoms, especially aggression and hostility, were found in these ones, who abused alcohol, attempted suicide, had lower self-esteem and cognitive processes, and were lacking safety in dysfunctional families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Śmiarowska
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Pawlicka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Independent Public Specialist Health Care Center "ZDROJE", 70-780 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Boroń
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Biochemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Grzywacz
- Independent Laboratory of Health Promotion, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Safranow
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Dariusz Chlubek
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Violetta Dziedziejko
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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9
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Loh MK, Stickling C, Schrank S, Hanshaw M, Ritger AC, Dilosa N, Finlay J, Ferrara NC, Rosenkranz JA. Liposaccharide-induced sustained mild inflammation fragments social behavior and alters basolateral amygdala activity. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:647-671. [PMID: 36645464 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06308-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Conditions with sustained low-grade inflammation have high comorbidity with depression and anxiety and are associated with social withdrawal. The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is critical for affective and social behaviors and is sensitive to inflammatory challenges. Large systemic doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) initiate peripheral inflammation, increase BLA neuronal activity, and disrupt social and affective measures in rodents. However, LPS doses commonly used in behavioral studies are high enough to evoke sickness syndrome, which can confound interpretation of amygdala-associated behaviors. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS The objectives of this study were to find a LPS dose that triggers mild peripheral inflammation but not observable sickness syndrome in adult male rats, to test the effects of sustained mild inflammation on BLA and social behaviors. To accomplish this, we administered single doses of LPS (0-100 μg/kg, intraperitoneally) and measured open field behavior, or repeated LPS (5 μg/kg, 3 consecutive days), and measured BLA neuronal firing, social interaction, and elevated plus maze behavior. RESULTS Repeated low-dose LPS decreased BLA neuron firing rate but increased the total number of active BLA neurons. Repeated low-dose LPS also caused early disengagement during social bouts and less anogenital investigation and an overall pattern of heightened social caution associated with reduced gain of social familiarity over the course of a social session. CONCLUSIONS These results provide evidence for parallel shifts in social interaction and amygdala activity caused by prolonged mild inflammation. This effect of inflammation may contribute to social symptoms associated with comorbid depression and chronic inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxine K Loh
- Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, 60064, North Chicago, USA.,Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Courtney Stickling
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sean Schrank
- Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, 60064, North Chicago, USA.,Discipline of Neuroscience, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, North Chicago, USA
| | - Madison Hanshaw
- Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, 60064, North Chicago, USA.,Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alexandra C Ritger
- Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, 60064, North Chicago, USA.,Discipline of Neuroscience, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, North Chicago, USA
| | - Naijila Dilosa
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua Finlay
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nicole C Ferrara
- Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, 60064, North Chicago, USA.,Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J Amiel Rosenkranz
- Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Foundational Sciences and Humanities, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, IL, 60064, North Chicago, USA. .,Center for Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA.
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10
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Cytokine alterations in pediatric internalizing disorders: Systematic review and exploratory multi-variate meta-analysis. Brain Behav Immun Health 2022; 24:100490. [PMID: 35880170 PMCID: PMC9307453 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2022.100490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric internalizing disorders are prevalent and characterized by a maladaptive cognitive, emotional response to a perceived stressor. The hypothesized effect of this response is observable changes in behavior mediated by homeostatic inflammatory cytokines. The aim of this study was to synthesize the literature and analyze the effect of cytokines on pediatric internalizing disorders. Influential moderating variables, including mean body mass index, fasting status at blood collection, participant sex, cytokine type, mean age, percentage of sample medicated, and diagnosis, were also assessed. A systematic literature search was performed in electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, and PsycINFO) from January 1, 1980 to June 15, 2022. Case-control studies of pediatric internalizing disorders, specifically anxiety and depression, were reviewed for their association with peripheral cytokine levels. Meta-analyses were performed using a random effects multi-variate model and effect sizes were calculated using Hedge's g for IL-2, CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, and IL-10. Thirty-three studies were reviewed and 28 studies were included in the meta-analysis (n = 1322 cases and n = 3617 controls). Peripheral cytokine levels were elevated in pediatric internalizing disorders compared to controls (Hedge's g = 0.19, p < 0.001). In the moderator analyses, depression diagnosis (Hedge's g = 0.18, p = 0.009) and non-fasting blood collection (Hedge's g = 0.20, p = 0.006) were significant. The meta-analytic findings are limited by methodological variation between studies, high heterogeneity, and low statistical power. Despite this, the findings suggest that elevated peripheral cytokine levels may play a role in the etiology and/or symptom maintenance of pediatric internalizing disorders. Depression diagnosis and non-fasting blood collection were observed to significantly influenced peripheral cytokine levels. No individual peripheral cytokines tested were associated with pediatric internalizing disorders. Overall, elevated peripheral cytokines were observed in pediatric internalizing disorders compared to controls.
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11
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Ji D, Francesconi M, Flouri E, Papachristou E. The role of inflammatory markers and cortisol in the association between early social cognition abilities and later internalising or externalising problems: Evidence from a UK birth cohort. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 105:225-236. [PMID: 35835432 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Deficits in social cognition are associated with internalising (emotional and peer problems) and externalising (conduct problems and hyperactivity/inattention) symptoms in youth. It has been suggested that stress may be one of the mechanisms underlying these associations. However, no empirical studies have investigated if physiological stress can explain the prospective associations between social cognition deficits and internalising and externalising symptoms in the general youth population. This study addressed this question and focused on two indicators of physiological stress, dysregulated diurnal cortisol patterns and systemic inflammation. METHOD Participants were 714 individuals from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), a UK population-based birth cohort. Bayesian structural equation modelling was used to investigate a) the associations of social cognition abilities at ages 8, 11, and 14 years with internalising and externalising problems at age 17 years and b) the potential mediating effects of cortisol parameters at age 15 years and inflammatory markers [interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP)] at ages 9 and 16 years. RESULTS We found that social cognition difficulties were associated with later internalising and externalising problems. Flattened diurnal cortisol slope was associated with hyperactivity/inattention problems two years later. Lower morning cortisol partially mediated the direct association between social communication deficits at 8 years and hyperactivity/inattention and conduct problems at 17 years, even after adjustments for inflammation and confounders (for hyperactivity/inattention: indirect effect = 0.07, 95% CI [0.00, 0.18], p = .042; for conduct problems: indirect effect = 0.04, 95% CI [0.00, 0.11], p = .040). We did not find a significant association between systemic inflammation and social cognition difficulties, internalising problems, or externalising problems. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that part of the effect of social communication difficulties in childhood on externalising problems in adolescence was mediated by lower morning cortisol. Hence, our study indicates that the hypoactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis may be one of the physiological mechanisms linking some social cognition deficits to externalising problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongying Ji
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, 25 Woburn Square, London WC1H 0AA, UK.
| | - Marta Francesconi
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, 25 Woburn Square, London WC1H 0AA, UK.
| | - Eirini Flouri
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, 25 Woburn Square, London WC1H 0AA, UK.
| | - Efstathios Papachristou
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, 25 Woburn Square, London WC1H 0AA, UK.
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12
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Crick DCP, Halligan SL, Howe LD, Lacey RE, Khandaker GM, Burgner D, Herbert A, Suderman M, Anderson EL, Fraser A. Associations between Adverse Childhood Experiences and the novel inflammatory marker glycoprotein acetyls in two generations of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children birth cohort. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 100:112-120. [PMID: 34793940 PMCID: PMC8791601 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with increased risk of non-communicable diseases in adulthood, potentially mediated by chronic low-grade inflammation. Glycoprotein acetyls (GlycA) is a marker of chronic and cumulative inflammation. We investigated associations between ACEs and GlycA at different ages, in two generations of the population-based Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) birth cohort. METHODS ALSPAC offspring's total ACE scores were generated for two age periods using prospectively collected data: 0-7y and 0-17y. GlycA was measured using high-resolution proton nuclear magnetic resonance at mean ages 8y, 18y, and 24y. Sample sizes ranged from: n = 5116 (8y) to n = 3085 (24y). ALSPAC mothers (n = 4634) retrospectively reported ACEs experienced before age 18y and GlycA was assessed at mean age 49y. We used multivariable linear regression to estimate associations between ACEs (total ACE score and individual ACEs) and subsequent GlycA in both samples, adjusting for key confounders. RESULTS Mean GlycA levels were similar in offspring and mothers and over time. In offspring, there was no evidence that ACEs (total score or individual ACE) were associated with GlycA at age 8y or 18y, or 24y after adjustment for maternal age at birth and parity, maternal marital status, household occupational social class, maternal education, maternal smoking, own ethnicity, sex, and age in months. In mothers, there was evidence of a positive association between the total ACE score and GlycA at age 49y (adjusted mean difference 0.007 mmol/L; 95%CI: 0.003, 0.01). Emotional neglect was the only individual ACE associated with higher GlycA after adjusting for confounders and other ACEs. CONCLUSION Results suggest the association between ACEs and GlycA may emerge in middle age. Future research should explore the extent to which inflammation in adulthood mediates well-documented associations between ACEs and adverse health outcomes in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy C P Crick
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Sarah L Halligan
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Laura D Howe
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rebecca E Lacey
- Research Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Golam M Khandaker
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - David Burgner
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), the Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Annie Herbert
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Matthew Suderman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Emma L Anderson
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Abigail Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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13
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Depresión Infanto-Juvenil y exposición temprana a la violencia. REVISTA IBEROAMERICANA DE PSICOLOGÍA 2021. [DOI: 10.33881/2027-1786.rip.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Este artículo de revisión bibliográfica tiene como objetivo conocer las aproximaciones teóricas de la depresión en el curso de vida infanto juvenil, a partir de la exposición temprana a situaciones de violencia, en tanto los procesos de mielinización se obstruyen, en la medida en que en los primeros años de vida, se es víctima de violencia, influyendo esto directamente en alteraciones, cognitivas, comportamentales y emocionales. Resulta del interés en conocer los avances de las disciplinas, las metodologías, las categorías y las preguntas que están motivando a los investigadores sobre el la depresión como síntoma arraigado en la violencia, hoy. El análisis de la información fue desarrollada a través del estado del arte que constaba de 8 (ocho) ítems y 50 (cincuenta) filas, con el fin de ordenar y categorizar la información a partir de conceptos relacionales. Las perspectivas disciplinares indagadas en esta revisión son la Psicología, la psiquiatría, la neuropsicología y las ciencias sociales. Las principales categorías indagadas por los autores son: mielinización, violencia infantil, depresión, consecuencias Neuropsicológicas y emocionales de la violencia. Las preguntas que formulan los investigadores se ubican en cuatro campos: procesos neurobiológicos, violencia y maltrato infantil, pautas de crianza, depresión infanto juvenil, y trastornos comportamentales, emocionales y cognitivos. Por los resultados obtenidos, se identificó que los problemas cardinales abordados en las investigaciones son, la violencia intrafamiliar, las pautas de crianza como uno de los ejes articuladores, y la depresión infanto juvenil.
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14
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Challenges in researching the immune pathways between early life adversity and psychopathology. Dev Psychopathol 2021; 32:1597-1624. [DOI: 10.1017/s0954579420001157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractExposure to childhood adversity is a critical risk factor for the development of psychopathology. A growing field of research examines how exposure to childhood adversity is translated into biological risk for psychopathology through alterations in immune system functioning, most notably heightened levels of inflammation biomarkers. Though our knowledge about how childhood adversity can instantiate biological risk for psychopathology is growing, there remain many challenges and gaps in the field to understand how inflammation from childhood adversity contributes to psychopathology. This paper reviews research on the inflammatory outcomes arising from childhood adversity and presents four major challenges that future research must address: (a) the measurement of childhood adversity, (b) the measurement of inflammation, (c) the identification of mediators between childhood adversity and inflammation, and (d) the identification of moderators of inflammatory outcomes following childhood adversity. We discuss synergies and inconsistencies in the literature to summarize the current understanding of the association between childhood adversity, a proinflammatory phenotype, and the biological risk for psychopathology. We discuss the clinical implications of the inflammatory links between childhood adversity and psychopathology, including possibilities for intervention. Finally, this review conclude by delineates future directions for research, including issues of how best to detect, prevent, and understand these “hidden wounds” of childhood adversity.
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15
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Francesconi M, Minichino A, Khandaker GM, Midouhas E, Lewis G, Flouri E. Reprint of: Internalising symptoms mediate the longitudinal association between childhood inflammation and psychotic-like experiences in adulthood. Schizophr Res 2020; 226:24-29. [PMID: 33341190 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are part of a continuum of psychosis. Previous longitudinal studies highlighted a relationship between peripheral inflammation during childhood and onset of PLEs in adulthood. In this study, we tested if this association is mediated by internalising and externalising symptoms experienced during childhood and adolescence. To test this hypothesis, we used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). We investigated a subsample of 4525 individuals from this cohort with data on interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in childhood (age 9 years). We measured PLEs at age 18 years, and we used latent growth curve modelling to estimate longitudinal trajectories of internalising and externalising symptoms from ages 9 to 16 years. The individual predicted values of the intercept (set at baseline, 9 years) and the slope (rate of annual change) were then used in the mediation analysis. There was evidence for full mediation by the intercept of internalising symptoms. Our findings suggest that inflammation during childhood may be relevant for the future onset of PLEs via its association with a high level of internalising symptoms. These findings, although obtained from a non-clinical population, provide an additional step in advancing knowledge on the relationship between inflammation and symptoms of the psychosis continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Francesconi
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK.
| | | | | | - Emily Midouhas
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK
| | - Glyn Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Eirini Flouri
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK
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16
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Kokosi T, Flouri E, Midouhas E. Do upsetting life events explain the relationship between low socioeconomic status and systemic inflammation in childhood? Results from a longitudinal study. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 84:90-96. [PMID: 31756384 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children from families of low socioeconomic status (SES) are more likely to be exposed to upsetting situations and stressors. Such exposures have, in turn, been linked to inflammation in some studies. In this study we explore if low SES is related to inflammation in children via such stressful life events. METHODS Data on 4525 children of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a general population birth cohort, were used to explore associations between SES at ages 0-3 years, upsetting life events at ages 3-9 years and inflammatory markers [interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP)] at age 9 years. Confounders included body mass index, gender, financial problems, and upsetting life events at ages 0-3 years. RESULTS Using Structural Equation Modelling, we found that early socioeconomic disadvantage predicted higher levels of IL-6 (β = 0.034, 95% CI = 0.005, 0.063) even after adjusting for confounders. This association was partially mediated by upsetting life events (β = 0.003, 95% CI = 0.001, 0.006). CONCLUSIONS In the general child population, low SES is associated with increased exposure to stressful life events, in turn associated with later inflammation. These findings highlight the role of stressors associated with poverty and disadvantage in the development of inflammation among children in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Kokosi
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK.
| | - Eirini Flouri
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK
| | - Emily Midouhas
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK
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17
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Prenatal and childhood adverse life events, inflammation and depressive symptoms across adolescence. J Affect Disord 2020; 260:577-582. [PMID: 31539695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No study has investigated the role of inflammation in explaining the association between early exposures to adverse life events and depressive symptoms in adolescence. METHOD Using data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, we tested if inflammatory markers [serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin 6 (IL-6)] at age 9 years mediate the association between adverse life events, measured separately for the prenatal (since the beginning of pregnancy) and the childhood (ages 0-9 years) periods, and the development of depressive symptoms at ages 10-17 years. Data (n = 4,263) were analyzed using mediation analysis in a latent growth curve modeling framework. RESULTS Depressive symptoms at the beginning of adolescence (age 10) were associated with the number of prenatal events, the number of events around birth and the increase in events over time in childhood (ages 0-9), even after adjustment for confounders. IL-6 partially mediated the association between increasing exposure to events over time in childhood and depressive symptoms at the beginning of adolescence. IL-6 did not mediate any other association between events and symptoms. There was no evidence for mediation by CRP, which was generally unrelated to exposure to events. LIMITATIONS The small size of the mediation effect and the robust direct effects of events prenatally and around birth suggest there are multiple routes from early stressors to adolescent depression. CONCLUSIONS In the general adolescent population, increasing exposure to psychosocial stressors over time during childhood is associated with the early onset of depressive symptoms, partly via increasing levels of plasma IL-6.
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18
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Francesconi M, Minichino A, Khandaker GM, Midouhas E, Lewis G, Flouri E. Internalising symptoms mediate the longitudinal association between childhood inflammation and psychotic-like experiences in adulthood. Schizophr Res 2020; 215:424-429. [PMID: 31387824 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are part of a continuum of psychosis. Previous longitudinal studies highlighted a relationship between peripheral inflammation during childhood and onset of PLEs in adulthood. In this study, we tested if this association is mediated by internalising and externalising symptoms experienced during childhood and adolescence. To test this hypothesis, we used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). We investigated a subsample of 4525 individuals from this cohort with data on interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in childhood (age 9 years). We measured PLEs at age 18 years, and we used latent growth curve modelling to estimate longitudinal trajectories of internalising and externalising symptoms from ages 9 to 16 years. The individual predicted values of the intercept (set at baseline, 9 years) and the slope (rate of annual change) were then used in the mediation analysis. There was evidence for full mediation by the intercept of internalising symptoms. Our findings suggest that inflammation during childhood may be relevant for the future onset of PLEs via its association with a high level of internalising symptoms. These findings, although obtained from a non-clinical population, provide an additional step in advancing knowledge on the relationship between inflammation and symptoms of the psychosis continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Francesconi
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK.
| | | | | | - Emily Midouhas
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK
| | - Glyn Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Eirini Flouri
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK
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Biological embedding of maternal postpartum depressive symptoms: The potential role of cortisol and telomere length. Biol Psychol 2019; 150:107809. [PMID: 31734351 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2019.107809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Although maternal postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) are associated with child behavior problems, the underlying biological mechanisms are poorly understood. Thus, the current study focused on 193 healthy mother-child dyads and investigated child cortisol and telomere length as potential mediating factors. At 3 and 6 months postpartum, mothers reported on PDS. At age 6, children provided saliva and buccal swab samples. At age 10, mothers and children reported on child behavior problems. Structural equation modelling revealed (a) no association between PDS and child behavior problems and thus no possibility of mediation, but that (b) lower cortisol forecast more child-reported internalizing problems, and (c) shorter telomere length predicted more child-reported internalizing and externalizing problems. These findings raise mediational questions about the determinants of these biomarkers.
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