Depressive symptoms in patients with chronic hepatitis C are correlated with elevated plasma levels of interleukin-1beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha

Association of Cognitive Impairment and Peripheral Inflammation in Methamphetamine-dependent Patients: A Cross-sectional Study on Neuroinflammatory Markers TNF-α and IL-6

Objective

To investigate the cognitive impairment and peripheral inflammation induced by methamphetamine (METH) and their association in METH abusers.

Methods

The cross-sectional study included 100 METH-dependent patients and 100 healthy controls. Cognitive screening was conducted using the Thai version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-T). Thirty normal controls and 30 METH-dependent patients were randomly selected for blood collection to measure inflammatory markers, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, using a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.

Results

METH-dependent patients had significantly poorer MoCA-T scores and higher levels of blood inflammatory markers compared to healthy controls. Demographic characteristics, METH use patterns, and proinflammatory cytokines were associated with cognitive impairment. The MoCA-T score was negatively associated with plasma TNF-α and IL-6 levels.

Conclusion

METH-associated cognitive decline is correlated with elevated plasma levels of TNF-α and IL-6 cytokines, indicating the involvement of specific neuroinflammatory pathways in neurocognitive dysfunction. These insights could pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating neuroinflammation, potentially improving outcomes for individuals with METH addiction.

SERT-Deficient Mice Fed Western Diet Reveal Altered Metabolic and Pro-Inflammatory Responses of the Liver: A Link to Abnormal Behaviors

BACKGROUND

The inheritance of the short SLC6A4 allele, encoding the serotonin transporter (SERT) in humans, increases susceptibility to neuropsychiatric and metabolic disorders, with aging and female sex further exacerbating these conditions. Both central and peripheral mechanisms of the compromised serotonin (5-HT) system play crucial roles in this context. Previous studies on SERT-deficient (Sert-/-) mice, which model human SERT deficiency, have demonstrated emotional and metabolic disturbances, exacerbated by exposure to a high-fat Western diet (WD). Growing evidence suggests the significance of hepatic regulatory mechanisms in the neurobiology of central nervous system disorders, supporting the 'liver-brain' concept. However, the relationship between aberrant behavior and hepatic alterations under conditions of SERT deficiency remains poorly investigated.

METHODS

One-year-old female Sert-/- mice and their wild-type (WT) littermates were subjected to a control diet (CD) or the WD for a duration of three weeks. The WD had a higher caloric content and was characterized by an elevated saturated fat content (21%) compared to the CD (4.5%) and contained 0.2% cholesterol. Mice were evaluated for anxiety-like behavior, exploration and locomotor activity in the open field test, as well as glucose tolerance and histological indicators of hepatic steatosis. Hepatic pro-inflammatory and metabolism-related gene expression and markers of nitrosative stress, were analyzed utilizing real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and correlated with behavioral and histological outcomes.

RESULTS

In comparison to unchallenged mice, Sert-/-/WD mutants, but not the WT/WD group, had increased locomotion and anxiety-like behavior, increased hepatic steatosis, and elevated expression of insulin receptor B and pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (Il-1β) and Tnf, as well as decreased expression of leptin receptor B. The two genotypes displayed distinct gene expression patterns of nitric oxide (NO)-related molecules inducible NO synthase (iNos) and arginase (Arg2), insulin receptor-related signaling factors: cluster of differentiation 36 (Cd36), ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase (Enpp), protein tyrosine phosphatase N1 (Ptpn1), cytochrome P450 omega-hydroxylase 4A14 (Cyp4a14), acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (Acsl1) and phosphatase and tensin homolog (Pten). Furthermore, there were profound differences in correlations between molecular, histological, and behavioral measurements across the two genotypes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the genetic deficiency of SERT results in abnormal hepatic pro-inflammatory and metabolic adaptations in response to WD. The significant correlations observed between behavioral measures and pro-inflammatory and metabolic alterations in WD-fed mice suggest the importance of liver-brain interactions and their role in the aberrant behaviors exhibited by Sert-/- mutants. This study presents the first evidence that altered liver functions are associated with pathological behaviors arising from genetic SERT deficiency.

Neuroplasticity elicited by peripheral immune challenge with a viral mimetic

Peripheral viral infections are well known to profoundly alter brain function; however detailed mechanisms of this immune-to-brain communication have not been deciphered. This review focuses on studies of cerebral effects of peripheral viral challenge employing intraperitoneal injection of a viral mimetic, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (PIC). In this paradigm, PIC challenge induces the acute phase response (APR) characterized by a transient surge of circulating inflammatory factors, primarily IFNβ, IL-6 and CXCL10. The blood-borne factors, in turn, elicit the generation of CXCL10 by hippocampal neurons. Neurons also express the cognate receptor of CXCL10, i.e., CXCR3 implicating the existence of autocrine/paracrine signaling. The CXCL10/CXCR3 axis mediates the ensuing neuroplastic changes manifested as neuronal hyperexcitability, seizure hypersusceptibility, and sickness behavior. Electrophysiological studies revealed that the neuroplastic changes entail the potentiation of excitatory synapses likely at both pre- and postsynaptic loci. Excitatory synaptic transmission is further augmented by PIC challenge-induced elevation of extracellular glutamate that is mediated by astrocytes. In addition, the hyperexcitability of neuronal circuits might involve the repression of inhibitory signaling. Accordingly, CXCL10 released by neurons activates microglia whose processes invade perisomatic inhibitory synapses, resulting in a partial detachment of the presynaptic terminals, and thus, de-inhibition. This process might be facilitated by the cerebral complement system, which is also upregulated and activated by PIC challenge. Moreover, CXCL10 stimulates the expression of neuronal c-fos protein, another index of hyperexcitability. The reviewed studies form a foundation for full elucidation of the fascinating intersection between peripheral viral infections and neuroplasticity. Because the activation of such pathways may constitute a serious comorbidity factor for neuropathological conditions, this research would advance the development of preventive strategies.

Impact of interleukin-1β single nucleotide polymorphisms and depressive symptoms in individuals with chronic viral hepatitis

Elevated levels of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) have been identified in patients with chronic viral hepatitis and have been associated with depressive symptoms. Given the high prevalence of depression in this patient population, this study sought to explore the potential influence of IL-1β genetic variations on the severity of depressive symptoms. In a cohort of 181 Taiwanese patients with chronic viral hepatitis, we investigated the impact of five common IL-1β single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including rs16944, rs1143627, rs1143630, rs1143643, and rs3136558, on depressive symptoms using the Beck's Depression Inventory-II. Additionally, we analyzed the primary domains of IL-1β-related depressive symptoms according to Beck's six symptom categories of depression. Our analysis revealed significant associations between depressive symptoms and three intronic IL-1β SNPs. After controlling for age, sex, marital status, and education level, patients with the rs1143630 GG, rs1143643 CC, and rs3136558 AA genotypes demonstrated higher severity of depressive symptoms in the domains of indecision (p = 0.004), agitation (p = 0.001), and feelings of punishment (p = 0.005), respectively, compared to rs1143630 GA+AA, rs1143643 CT, and rs3136558 AG+GG genotypes. According to Beck's categorization, these symptoms can be classified into three dimensions: disturbances in emotion regulation, energy, and cognition. Our findings demonstrate the association between IL-1β polymorphisms and depressive symptoms and suggest a potential underlying mechanism for specific depressive symptoms within the chronic viral hepatitis population. These insights could improve our understanding and treatment of depressive symptoms in individuals with viral hepatitis.

Inflammatory and mental health sequelae of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant negative consequences to mental health. Increased inflammatory factors and neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as cognitive impairment ("brain fog"), depression, and anxiety are associated with long COVID [post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), termed neuro-PASC]. The present study sought to examine the role of inflammatory factors as predictors of neuropsychiatric symptom severity in the context of COVID-19. Adults (n = 52) who tested negative or positive for COVID-19 were asked to complete self-report questionnaires and to provide blood samples for multiplex immunoassays. Participants who tested negative for COVID-19 were assessed at baseline and at a follow-up study visit (∼4 weeks later). Individuals without COVID-19 reported significantly lower PHQ-4 scores at the follow-up visit, as compared to baseline (p = 0.03; 95% CI-1.67 to -0.084). Individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 and experienced neuro-PASC had PHQ-4 scores in the moderate range. The majority of people with neuro-PASC reported experiencing brain fog (70% vs. 30%). Those with more severe COVID-19 had significantly higher PHQ-4 scores, as compared to those with mild disease (p = 0.008; 95% CI 1.32 to 7.97). Changes in neuropsychiatric symptom severity were accompanied by alterations in immune factors, particularly monokine induced by gamma interferon (IFN-γ) (MIG, a. k.a. CXCL9). These findings add to the growing evidence supporting the usefulness of circulating MIG levels as a biomarker reflecting IFN-γ production, which is important because individuals with neuro-PASC have elevated IFN-γ responses to internal SARS-CoV-2 proteins.

Small-molecule natural plants for reversing liver fibrosis based on modulation of hepatic stellate cells activation: An update

BACKGROUND

Liver fibrosis (LF) is a trauma repair process carried out by the liver in response to various acute and chronic liver injuries. Its primary pathological characteristics are excessive proliferation and improper dismissal of the extracellular matrix, and if left untreated, it will progress into cirrhosis, liver cancer, and other diseases. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is intimately associated to the onset of LF, and it is anticipated that addressing HSCs proliferation can reverse LF. Plant-based small-molecule medications have anti-LF properties, and their mechanisms of action involve suppression of extracellular matrix abnormally accumulating as well as anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress. New targeting HSC agents will therefore be needed to provide a potential curative response.

PURPOSE

The most recent HSC routes and small molecule natural plants that target HSC described domestically and internationally in recent years were examined in this review.

METHODS

The data was looked up using resources including ScienceDirect, CNKI, Web of Science, and PubMed. Keyword searches for information on hepatic stellate cells included "liver fibrosis", "natural plant", "hepatic stellate cells", "adverse reaction", "toxicity", etc. RESULTS: We discovered that plant monomers can target and control various pathways to prevent the activation and proliferation of HSC and promote the apoptosis of HSC in order to achieve the anti-LF effect in this work by compiling the plant monomers that influence many common pathways of HSC in recent years. It demonstrates the wide-ranging potential of plant monomers targeting different routes to combat LF, with a view to supplying new concepts and new strategies for natural plant therapy of LF as well as research and development of novel pharmaceuticals. The investigation of kaempferol, physalin B, and other plant monomers additionally motivated researchers to focus on the structure-activity link between the main chemicals and LF.

CONCLUSION

The creation of novel pharmaceuticals can benefit greatly from the use of natural components. They are often harmless for people, non-target creatures, and the environment because they are found in nature, and they can be employed as the starting chemicals for the creation of novel medications. Natural plants are valuable resources for creating new medications with fresh action targets because they feature original and distinctive action mechanisms.

Lipocalin-2 Secreted by the Liver Regulates Neuronal Cell Function Through AKT-Dependent Signaling in Hepatic Encephalopathy Mouse Model

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) associated with liver failure is accompanied by hyperammonemia, severe inflammation, depression, anxiety, and memory deficits as well as liver injury. Recent studies have focused on the liver-brain-inflammation axis to identify a therapeutic solution for patients with HE. Lipocalin-2 is an inflammation-related glycoprotein that is secreted by various organs and is involved in cellular mechanisms including iron homeostasis, glucose metabolism, cell death, neurite outgrowth, and neurogenesis. In this study, we investigated that the roles of lipocalin-2 both in the brain cortex of mice with HE and in Neuro-2a (N2A) cells. We detected elevated levels of lipocalin-2 both in the plasma and liver in a bile duct ligation mouse model of HE. We confirmed changes in cytokine expression, such as interleukin-1β, cyclooxygenase 2 expression, and iron metabolism related to gene expression through AKT-mediated signaling both in the brain cortex of mice with HE and N2A cells. Our data showed negative effects of hepatic lipocalin-2 on cell survival, iron homeostasis, and neurite outgrowth in N2A cells. Thus, we suggest that regulation of lipocalin-2 in the brain in HE may be a critical therapeutic approach to alleviate neuropathological problems focused on the liver-brain axis.

Risk Factors of Severe COVID-19: A Review of Host, Viral and Environmental Factors

The clinical course and outcome of COVID-19 are highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe disease and death. Understanding the risk factors of severe COVID-19 is relevant both in the clinical setting and at the epidemiological level. Here, we provide an overview of host, viral and environmental factors that have been shown or (in some cases) hypothesized to be associated with severe clinical outcomes. The factors considered in detail include the age and frailty, genetic polymorphisms, biological sex (and pregnancy), co- and superinfections, non-communicable comorbidities, immunological history, microbiota, and lifestyle of the patient; viral genetic variation and infecting dose; socioeconomic factors; and air pollution. For each category, we compile (sometimes conflicting) evidence for the association of the factor with COVID-19 outcomes (including the strength of the effect) and outline possible action mechanisms. We also discuss the complex interactions between the various risk factors.

Association of anxiety and depression with chronic liver diseases in patients with noncardiac chest pain: A cross-sectional study

Causes of chest pain can vary from benign to life-threatening conditions, and in many cases not necessary of cardiac origin. A possible reason for noncardiac chest pain could be anxiety or depression caused by chronic liver diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of anxiety and depression with chronic liver disease in patients with noncardiac pain. Patients with chest tightness or pain referred for treadmill exercise testing were recruited from a regional hospital in southern Taiwan. Medical records of the patients were used to define the presence and type of chronic liver disease. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association of anxiety and depression with chronic liver disease. A total of 2537 patients with liver function test results and abdominal sonography data were analyzed, and 1965 patients showed a negative treadmill exercise testing. The mean age of these 1965 patients was 51.9 years and 54.2% were male. The prevalence of alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and fatty liver disease was 10.6%, 10.9%, 3.7%, and 27.0%, respectively. Results from multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the risk of anxiety (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.83, P < .001) and depression (aOR = 1.85, P < .001) was significantly higher in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Anxiety was significantly higher in patients with fatty liver disease (aOR = 1.30, P = .031), and the risk of depression was significantly higher in patients with chronic hepatitis C (aOR = 2.18, P = .005). In conclusion, in patients with noncardiac chest pain, alcoholic liver disease was significantly associated with anxiety and depression, while those with fatty liver and chronic hepatitis C were associated with anxiety and depression, respectively. Clinicians should be vigilant to these correlations in their practice.

Social relationship quality, depression and inflammation: A cross-cultural longitudinal study in the United States and Tokyo, Japan

BACKGROUND

Depression is an illness with biological, psychological, and social underpinnings, which may include the interplay of inflammation, psychological traits, stress, social relationships, and cultural background.

AIMS

This work examines the prospective associations between social relationship quality and depressive symptoms, and between social relationship quality and inflammatory outcomes in two distinct cultures.

METHODS

Data were obtained from two longitudinal, prospective cohort studies: Midlife in the United States (MIDUS), and Midlife Development in Japan (MIDJA) between 2004 and 2010. One thousand three hundred and twenty-seven community-based adults were included in analyses, 1,054 from the United States and 273 from Tokyo, Japan. Depressive symptoms (measured by the CES-D Depression Scale) and inflammation (measured by blood sample concentrations of the inflammatory biomarkers interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein) were the outcomes. Social relationship quality was the predictor. Culture, trait independence and interdependence, and psychosocial stressors were examined as moderators of the link between social relationship quality and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Higher social relationship quality was associated with lower depressive symptoms in the United States (β = -6.15, p < .001), but not in Japan (β = -1.25, p = .390). Social relationship quality had no association with inflammation. Psychosocial stressors moderated the link between social relationship quality and depressive symptoms in both the United States (β = -0.39, p = .001) and Tokyo (β = -0.55, p = .001), such that social relationship quality acted as a buffer against depressive symptoms as psychosocial stress increased.

CONCLUSION

Improving the perceived quality of social relationships appears to be a stronger target for depression interventions in the United States than in Tokyo, Japan.

Selenium reduces nociceptive response in acute 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced neurotoxicity

The potential of Se to alleviate pain associated with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced neurotoxicity was investigated.

Swiss mice were intraperitoneally injected with MPTP (20 mg/kg) 4 times with an interval of 2 h in 1 day. Seven days after MPTP injection, the mice (n = 5 mice per group) were randomly assigned to groups: MPTP-, DOPA (50 mg/kg)-, Se4 (0.4 mg/kg)-, Se6 (0.6 mg/kg)-, DOPA+Se4-, and DOPA+Se6-treated groups were compared with controls. MPTP mice were treated for seven days; thereafter, motor-coordination and nociceptive-motor reactions were assessed. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα), and selected pain biomarkers (substance P (SP), glutamate and β-endorphin) were assessed in the serum and the substantial nigra pars compacta (SNpc).

Motor activity was increased slightly by Se (0.6 or 0.4 mg/kg) vs. MPTP (10.48 ± 2.71 or 11.81 ± 1.28 s vs. 3.53 ± 0.06 s respectively) but considerably increased by DOPA (50 mg/kg) vs. MPTP (50.47 ± 3.06 s vs. 3.53 ± 0.06 s respectively). Se and DOPA increased nociceptive threshold but Se alone reduced both serum and SN pro-inflammatory cytokines. Se modulates SP while DOPA modulates SP and glutamate in the SNpc of mice treated with MPTP.

Se suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines and restored the basal pain biomarkers in the SNpc of mice treated with MPTP. Se requires further study as analgesic adjuvant.

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER IS ASSOCIATED WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEPATITIS C INFECTION

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is commonly reported in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC); however, the factors behind the co-occurrence of these conditions have not been completely clarified yet.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the frequency of mental disorders in CHC patients and to investigate variables associated with MDD.

METHODS

CHC patients (n=151) attending a referral Centre for hepatitis were evaluated using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatry Interview and the Cut-Annoyed-Guilty-Eye (CAGE) Questionnaire. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate independent covariates associated with current MDD.

RESULTS

Seventy-six (50.3%) patients had, at least, one current psychiatric diagnosis with MDD (33.1%) being the most common. Current MDD was independently associated with age (≤50 yr.) (OR=2.57; 95%CI=1.25-5.29; P=0.01) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (OR=2.80, 95%CI=1.17-6.70; P=0.02). Cirrhosis was associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (OR=5.09; 95%CI=1.73-15.04; P=0.03) and current alcohol abuse/dependence (OR=2.54; 95%CI=1.04-6.22; P=0.04).

DISCUSSION

MDD is associated with type 2 diabetes in CHC patients. Even in the direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) era, characterized by great perspectives for the first ample cure of a chronic viral infection, we should ensure that the screening for psychiatric disorders takes place in the course of routine clinical care of patients chronically infected with hepatitis C virus.

Targeting neurotransmitter-mediated inflammatory mechanisms of psychiatric drugs to mitigate the double burden of multimorbidity and polypharmacy

The increased incidence of multimorbidities and polypharmacy is a major concern, particularly in the growing aging population. While polypharmacy can be beneficial, in many cases it can be more harmful than no treatment, especially in individuals suffering from psychiatric disorders, who have elevated risks of multimorbidity and polypharmacy. Age-related chronic inflammation and immunopathologies might contribute to these increased risks in this population, but the optimal clinical management of drug-drug interactions and the neuro-immune mechanisms that are involved warrants further investigation. Given that neurotransmitter systems, which psychiatric medications predominantly act on, can influence the development of inflammation and the regulation of immune function, it is important to better understand these interactions to develop more successful strategies to manage these comorbidities and complicated polypharmacy. I propose that expanding upon research in translationally relevant human in vitro models, in tandem with other preclinical models, is critical to defining the neurotransmitter-mediated mechanisms by which psychiatric drugs alter immune function. This will define more precisely the interactions of psychiatric drugs and other immunomodulatory drugs, used in combination, enabling identification of novel targets to be translated into more efficacious diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic interventions. This interdisciplinary approach will aid in better precision polypharmacy for combating adverse events associated with multimorbidity and polypharmacy in the future.

Periodontal status and the efficacy of the first-line treatment of major depressive disorder

Objectives

The efficacy of treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) is not satisfactory. Systemic inflammation may play an important role in MDD pathogenesis and treatment outcomes. Periodontal disease is the systemic inflammatory condition. Its prevalence may be as high as 45%. We aimed to assess the association of periodontal status with the outcome of 3‐month first‐line treatment of MDD with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Material and Methods

We performed the prospective cohort study during 2018/2019 at Psychiatric Hospital “Sveti Ivan,” Croatia, on a consecutive sample of 43 patients. The outcome was the MDD symptoms severity measured using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale‐17. The periodontal status was indicated by the clinical attachment loss (CAL).

Results

Baseline periodontal status had a nonlinear significant and clinically relevant association with the MDD treatment outcome (R² change of the quadratic term = 0.12; p = 0.027). In patients with good baseline periodontal status the severity of MDD symptoms was significantly improved. When the value of CAL was ≥4.44 mm, indicating the worse periodontal status, further increase in baseline CAL was associated with the worsening of MDD treatment outcomes independently of the baseline depression severity and 14 sociodemographic and clinical predictors of treatment outcome.

Conclusions

Periodontal healthcare is accessible, and should be utilize in an integrative, multidisciplinary approach not only for the sake of psychiatric patients' quality of life and prevention of periodontal disease, but for the sake of the outcomes of psychiatric treatment as well.

Investigation of possible neuroprotective effects of some plant extracts on brain in bile duct ligated rats

This study aimed to investigate the possible neuroprotective effects of bitter melon (BM), chard, and parsley extracts on oxidative damage that may occur in the brain of rats with bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced biliary cirrhosis. It was observed that lipid peroxidation (LPO), sialic acid (SA), and nitric oxide (NO) levels increased; glutathione (GSH) levels, catalase (CAT) activity, and tissue factor (TF) activity decreased significantly in the BDL group. However, in groups with BDL given BM, chard, and parsley extracts LPO, SA, NO levels decreased; GSH levels and CAT activities increased significantly. No significant differences were observed between groups in total protein, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and boron. Histological findings were supported by the biochemical results. BM, chard, and parsley extracts were effective in the regression of oxidant damage caused by cirrhosis in the brain tissues. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Bitter melon (BM), chard, and parsley have antioxidant properties due to their bioactive compounds which are involved in scavenging free radicals, suppressing their production, and stimulating the production of endogenous antioxidant compounds. Since BM, chard, and parsley extracts were found to be effective in the regression of oxidant damage caused by cirrhosis in the brain tissues, these plant extracts may be an alternative in the development of different treatment approaches against brain damage in cirrhosis. At the same time, these species have been used as food by the people for many years. Therefore, they can be used safely as neuroprotective agents in treatment.

Psychiatric Disorders of Neurocysticercosis: Narrative Review

Neurocysticercosis, the most common type of neuroparasitosis, is a condition in which the central nervous system (CNS) is infested with the pork tapeworm Taenia solium cysticercosis' larvae. Neurocysticercosis is the most widespread parasitic CNS disease worldwide, affecting more than 50 million individuals. As neurocysticercosis is prevalent in developing countries, the growing number of migrants and travelers increases prevalence in developed countries. Possible neuropsychiatric manifestations are depression, cognitive dysfunction, dementia, and visual hallucinations. Depending on the cysts' location in the CNS, focal neurology or psychiatric symptoms manifest. The diagnosis of neurocysticercosis is based on neuroimaging and serology. The correlation between specific symptoms and the cyst's location might help better understand psychiatric disorders' pathophysiology. Nonetheless, the exact prevalence of neurocysticercosis is seldom reported in patients with psychiatric disorders, which may be due to the lack of imaging availability in developing countries with a high prevalence.

Neuroinvasion and cognitive impairment in comorbid alcohol dependence and chronic viral infection: An initial investigation

Viruses that invade the central nervous system (CNS) can cause neuropsychiatric impairments. Similarly, chronic alcohol exposure can induce inflammatory responses that alter brain function. However, the effects of a chronic viral infection and comorbid alcohol use on neuroinflammation and behavior are not well-defined. We investigated the role of heavy alcohol intake in regulating inflammatory responses and behavioral signs of cognitive impairments in mice infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) clone 13. LCMV-infected mice exposed to alcohol had increased peripheral inflammation and impaired cognitive function (as indicated by performance on the novel object recognition test). Initial findings suggest that brain region-specific dysregulation of microglial response to viral infection may contribute to cognitive impairments in the context of heavy alcohol use.

Association of chronic inflammation and perceived stress with abnormal functional connectivity in brain areas involved with interoception in hepatitis C patients

BACKGROUND

Sickness behavioral changes elicited by inflammation may become prolonged and dysfunctional in patients with chronic disease, such as chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Neuroimaging studies show that the basal ganglia and insula are sensitive to systemic inflammation.

AIM

To elucidate the clinical and neurobiological aspects of prolonged illnesses in patients with CHC.

METHODS

Thirty-five CHC patients not treated with interferon-α or other antiviral therapy, and 30 control subjects matched for age and sex, were evaluated for perceived stress (perceived stress scale; PSS), depression (PHQ-9), fatigue and irritability through a visual analog scale (VAS), as well as serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and oxidative stress markers. Functional MRI was performed, measuring resting-state functional connectivity using a region-of-interest (seed)-based approach focusing on the bilateral insula, subgenual anterior cingulate cortex and bilateral putamen. Between-group differences in functional connectivity patterns were assessed with two-sample t-tests, while the associations between symptoms, inflammatory markers and functional connectivity patterns were analyzed with multiple regression analyses.

RESULTS

CHC patients had higher PSS, PHQ-9 and VAS scores for fatigue and irritability, as well as increased IL-6 levels, PGE₂ concentrations and antioxidant system activation compared to controls. PSS scores positively correlated with functional connectivity between the right anterior insula and right putamen, whereas PHQ-9 scores correlated with functional connectivity between most of the seeds and the right anterior insula. PGE₂ (positively) and IL-6 (negatively) correlated with functional connectivity between the right anterior insula and right caudate nucleus and between the right ventral putamen and right putamen/globus pallidus. PGE₂ and PSS scores accounted for 46% of the variance in functional connectivity between the anterior insula and putamen.

CONCLUSIONS

CHC patients exhibited increased perceived stress and depressive symptoms, which were associated with changes in inflammatory marker levels and in functional connectivity between the insula and putamen, areas involved in interoceptive integration, emotional awareness, and orientation of motivational state.

Interleukin-10 promoter gene polymorphisms are associated with the first major depressive episode in chronic hepatitis C patients

AIMS

To investigate the association of IL10 SNPs in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients with and without the first major depressive episode (MDE), as well as their association with plasma levels of target cytokines.

METHODS

A hundred and thirty two CHC patients (32 with and 100 without first MDE) and 98 controls were prospectively enrolled in this cross-sectional study. MDE was diagnosed by a psychiatrist, using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview Plus 5.0. IL10 polymorphisms (-1082 G/A, -819C/T and -592C/A IL10 SNPs) were evaluated by Taqman SNP genotyping assay. Plasma concentrations of IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α were determined using the Human Th1/Th2 Cytometric Bead Array kit. The associations were investigated by logistic models.

RESULTS

The frequencies of the studied IL10 SNPs did not differ between the CHC patients and controls. The first MDE was positive and independently associated with the IL10-1082*A, IL10-819*T and IL10-592*A (ATA) low producer haplotype (OR = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.11-2.04; P = 0.009) and current alcohol misuse (OR = 4.29; 95% CI = 1.22-15.05; P = 0.02), and inversely associated with increasing age (OR = 0.94; 95% CI = 0.91-0.98; P = 0.006). In addition, plasma level of TNF-α was significantly higher in the carriers than in the non-carriers of the IL10 ATA haplotype in patients with the first MDE. The IL-10 and IL-2 plasma levels were significantly higher in the carriers than in non-carriers of the IL10 GCC high producer haplotype, demonstrating the functionality of the studied IL10 polymorphisms.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to demonstrate that the IL10 low producer ATA haplotype is associated with the first MDE in patients with CHC.

The Impact of Gender on Interferon-Associated Depression and Anxiety

Population studies indicate women have higher prevalences of depression and anxiety than men. Interferon (IFN) is a biologic agent that can induce or exacerbate depression and/or anxiety. Whether women are more likely to experience these side effects of IFN during treatment remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to document levels of depression and anxiety in female and male patients before and during IFN-based treatment. This was a prospective open-label study in which depression was measured by Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and anxiety by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Before treatment, the prevalence of depression was higher in females (3/13 [23%]) than males (1/25 [4%]), but the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.12). Initial BDI scores were also higher in females but not significantly (P = 0.07). During treatment, BDI scores increased to a similar extent in both genders. A similar percentage of nondepressed patients at baseline developed depression (females: 50% versus males: 35%, P = 0.45). Before treatment, anxiety was significantly more common in females (7/13 [54%]) than males (3/25 [12%]) (P = 0.016) and median HADS scores were higher in females (P = 0.03). During treatment, increases in HADS scores were similar in the 2 genders. A similar percentage of patients without anxiety at baseline developed anxiety on treatment (females: 50% versus males: 23%, P = 0.31). The frequency and extent of IFN-induced/exacerbated depression and anxiety are not gender dependent.

Depression in cirrhosis - a prospective evaluation of the prevalence, predictors and development of a screening nomogram

BACKGROUND

Depression is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality in cirrhosis, but is underdiagnosed and undertreated.

AIMS

Using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) as a gold-standard, to determine prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of depression, and to develop a screening nomogram for use in cirrhosis patients.

METHODS

Cirrhotic outpatients 18-80 years of age, not on anti-depressants, were consecutively recruited from liver clinics at three tertiary care hospitals. Baseline health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and frailty were determined by the chronic liver disease questionnaire, EQ-VAS, Clinical Frailty Scale and Fried Frailty Criteria. Depression was identified using the MINI and participants were followed up to 6 months to determine unplanned hospitalization/death.

RESULTS

Of 305 patients, 62% were male; mean age 55(10) years; mean MELD 12.5(5), 61% Child Pugh B/C. Prevalence of depression 18% by MINI. Patients with depression had lower baseline HRQoL and higher frailty scores. Five independently predictive factors were used to develop a clinical nomogram for the diagnosis of clinical depression. These included three Hospital Anxiety and Depression Screening tool variables: "I have lost interest in my appearance" (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.2, P = 0.006), "I look forward with enjoyment to things" (aOR 2.0, P = 0.02), "I feel cheerful" (aOR 2.8, P = 0.002), and two demographic variables: younger age (aOR 0.92, P = 0.001) and not being married or in a common-law relationship (aOR 0.30, P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Depression is common in patients with cirrhosis. It has a significant impact on HRQoL and functional status. The developed clinical nomogram is promising for the rapid screening of depression in patients with cirrhosis.

Functional MRI and delay discounting in patients infected with hepatitis C

Hepatitis C virus-infected (HCV+) adults evidence increased rates of psychiatric and cognitive difficulties. This is the first study to use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine brain activation in untreated HCV+ adults. To determine whether, relative to non-infected controls (CTLs), HCV+ adults exhibit differences in brain activation during a delay discounting task (DDT), a measure of one's tendency to choose smaller immediate rewards over larger delayed rewards-one aspect of impulsivity. Twenty adults with HCV and 26 CTLs completed an fMRI protocol during the DDT. Mixed effects regression analyses of hard versus easy trials of the DDT showed that, compared with CTLs, the HCV+ group exhibited less activation in the left lateral occipital gyrus, precuneus, and superior frontal gyrus. There were also significant interactive effects for hard-easy contrasts in the bilateral medial frontal gyrus, left insula, left precuneus, left inferior parietal lobule, and right temporal occipital gyrus; the CTL group evidenced a positive relationship between impulsivity and activation, while the HCV+ group exhibited a negative relationship. Within the HCV+ group, those with high viral load chose immediate rewards more often than those with low viral load, regardless of choice difficulty; those with low viral load chose immediate rewards more often on hard choices relative to easy choices. Results show that HCV+ patients exhibit greater impulsive behavior when presented with difficult choices, and impulsivity is negatively related to activation in regions important for cognitive control. Thus, interventions that decrease impulsive choice may be warranted with some HCV+ patients.

Maternal prenatal depression predicts infant negative affect via maternal inflammatory cytokine levels

Maternal depressive symptoms during pregnancy are associated with risk for offspring emotional and behavioral problems, but the mechanisms by which this association occurs are not known. Infant elevated negative affect (increased crying, irritability, fearfulness, etc.) is a key risk factor for future psychopathology, so understanding its determinants has prevention and early intervention potential. An understudied yet promising hypothesis is that maternal mood affects infant mood via maternal prenatal inflammatory mechanisms, but this has not been prospectively examined in humans. Using data from a pilot study of women followed from the second trimester of pregnancy through six months postpartum (N = 68) our goal was to initiate a prospective study as to whether maternal inflammatory cytokines mediate the association between maternal depressive symptoms and infant offspring negative affect. The study sample was designed to examine a broad range of likely self-regulation and mood-regulation problems in offspring; to that end we over-selected women with a family history or their own history of elevated symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Results supported the hypothesis: maternal pro-inflammatory cytokines during the third trimester (indexed using a latent variable that included plasma interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 concentrations as indicators) mediated the effect, such that higher maternal depressive symptoms were associated with higher maternal inflammation, and this mediated the effect on maternal report of infant negative affect (controlling for maternal affect during the infant period). This is the first human study to demonstrate that maternal inflammatory cytokines mediate the association between prenatal depression and infant outcomes, and the first to demonstrate a biological mechanism through which depressive symptoms impact infant temperament.

Association of T and non-T cell cytokines with anhedonia: Role of gender differences

OBJECTIVE

Among individual depressive symptoms, anhedonia has been reliably associated with activation of the innate immune response. However, it is unclear whether this association extends to T cell cytokines and if gender differentially affects this association.

METHOD

Concentrations of T (IL-17, T-helper (Th) 1- and Th2-) and non-T cell cytokines were measured in plasma using the Bioplex Pro™ human cytokine multiplex kit in Combining Medications to Enhance Depression Outcomes (CO-MED) trial participants who provided plasma at baseline (n = 166). Anhedonia was measured with three items of the clinician-rated Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology and depression severity (minus anhedonia item) was measured with Quick Inventory of Depression Severity Self-Report version (modified-QIDS-SR). Separate generalized linear models for anhedonia and modified-QIDS-SR as dependent variables were conducted with IL-17, Th1-, Th2-, and non-T cell- cytokines as primary independent variables and gender, body mass index (BMI), and age as covariates. Exploratory analyses included gender-by-biomarker interactions.

RESULTS

Higher levels of IL-17 (p = 0.032), Th1- (p = 0.002), Th2-(p = 0.001) and non-T-(p = 0.009) cell markers were associated with greater severity of anhedonia controlling for BMI, age, and gender. Gender also had a significant main effect on anhedonia, however, there was a significant gender by immune marker interaction only for IL-17 (p = 0.050). Anhedonia severity increased with higher IL-17 in males (r = 0.42, p = 0.003) but not in females (r = 0.09, p = 0.336). Only non-T cell markers were associated with the modified-QIDS-SR, and there were no significant gender-specific associations with this variable.

CONCLUSIONS

T and non-T cell-related inflammatory markers were associated with greater severity of anhedonia, while gender moderated the association of IL-17 with anhedonia in patients with major depressive disorder.

S100B and Inflammatory Cytokine Levels in Blood as Potential Markers of Blood-Brain Barrier Damage and Psychiatric Impairment in Comorbid Hepatitis C Viral Infection and Alcohol Use Disorder

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and alcohol use disorder (AUD) both adversely affect the immune system resulting in alterations in immune cell signaling and inflammatory processes. The aim of this study was to investigate how comorbid AUD contributes to abnormalities in inflammatory mediators and psychiatric impairments in adults with HCV.

METHODS

Alcohol use, mood, and inflammatory factors were evaluated at 3 time points (baseline, week 4, and week 12) in Veterans with HCV, with (n = 42) and without (n = 13) comorbid AUD. Peripheral indices of immune activation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage (S100 calcium-binding protein B [S100B]), liver function, and viral load were measured using immunoassays and polymerase chain reaction assays.

RESULTS

Comorbid AUD was associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety, elevated levels of liver enzymes, and altered expression of inflammatory factors. Alcohol consumption was positively correlated with the severity of psychiatric symptoms. Univariate analysis identified significant group differences in interleukin (IL)-8 (p = 0.006), IL-10 (p = 0.03), and S100B (p = 0.048), with increased levels in participants with AUD, which persisted over time despite reductions in alcohol use and no significant change in HCV viral load. Statistically significant effects of study group or time were not found for the other immune factors assessed. Exploratory receiver operating characteristic curve analysis evaluated the ability of IL-8, IL-10, and S100B to differentiate between levels of alcohol consumption and generated biomarker cutoff values used to identify low risk and unhealthy alcohol use groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that HCV and comorbid AUD are associated with greater psychiatric impairments, potentially resulting from increased inflammation, dysregulated cytokine expression, and compromised BBB function. Alcohol-induced BBB damage may increase the risk of neuropathological consequences within the context of chronic HCV infection.

Sickness Behavior and Seasonal Affective Disorder: An Immunological Perspective of Depression

We describe a case of 45-year-old female suffering from chronic hepatitis B and bronchial asthma who presented with symptoms of seasonal affective disorder and sickness behavior. The case report illustrates syndromal and sub syndromal presentations of depression such as sickness behavior in support of "malaise theory of depression" from psychoneuroimmunological perspective. The current case depicts the complex interplay of inflammatory physical illness, medication and manifestations of depression in an individual case. Thus, the physicians and psychiatrists must be vigilant regarding the psychiatric manifestations of physical illness with immune-inflammatory component.

Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Depression

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a systemic disease with hepatic and extrahepatic manifestations, including neuropsychiatric conditions. Depression is a frequent disorder, which has been reported in one-third of patients with HCV infection and has an estimated prevalence of 1.5 to 4.0 times higher than that observed in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection or the general population. HCV seems to play a direct and indirect role in the development of depression. Impaired quality of life and increasing health care costs have been reported for patients with HCV infection with depression. Treatment-induced HCV clearance has been associated with improvement of depression and quality of life.

Co-infection with HIV associated with reduced vulnerability to symptoms of depression during antiviral treatment for hepatitis C

In this prospective study, we examined new-onset major depressive disorder (MDD) and the differential expression of depressive symptoms in a sample of 132 HCV mono-infected and 40 HIV/HCV co-infected patients initiating pegylated interferon-based treatment, including protease inhibitor therapy. The semi-structured clinical interview (SCID-I) was used to assess MDD. Severity of depressive symptoms was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Of the total sample, 60 patients (34.9%) developed SCID-I defined MDD during antiviral treatment. The proportion of HCV mono- and HIV/HCV patients developing MDD during treatment was not significantly different (37.9% vs. 25%; p=0.185). In both groups, there was a significant increase in HAMD total score from baseline to week 4, and a significant decrease between week 24 and 6 months post-treatment cessation. The greatest increase was observed in the symptoms of the neurovegetative syndrome. HCV mono-infected patients reported higher scores than co-infected patients, particularly impaired activity and somatic symptoms, but the differences were only significant at week 12. The finding that co-infected patients appear less vulnerable to the development of depressive symptoms during HCV treatment than HCV mono-infected patients warrants further exploration, including a thorough analysis of the biological and psychosocial factors associated with this emergence.

Suicide risk and prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) among individuals infected with HIV-1 subtype C versus B in Southern Brazil

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is among the most prevalent neuropsychiatric disorders associated with HIV infection; however, its risks and neurobiologic correlates in diverse cultures are poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the frequency of MDD among HIV+ participants in southern Brazil. We hypothesized that the frequency and severity of MDD would be higher among individuals with HIV+ compared with HIV- and higher in HIV subtype B compared with C. Individuals with HIV (n = 39) as well as seronegative controls (n = 22) were enrolled in a cross-sectional, prospective, observational study. Current and lifetime history of MDD was diagnosed by MINI-Plus; symptom severity was assessed by Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Current and past episodes of MDD were significantly more frequent in the HIV+ versus HIV- group: current MDD, 15 (38.5 %) vs. 0 (0 %), p = 0.0004; past MDD, 24 (61.5 %) vs. 3 (13.6 %), p = 0.0004. The median BDI-II score in the HIV+ group was significantly higher than that in the HIV- (13 (8-27.5) vs. 2.5 (1-5.5); p < 0.0001). Current suicide risk, defined as during the last month, was found in 18 % of participants in the HIV-positive and none in the HIV-negative group. Neither current MDD frequency (8 (57.1 %) vs. 6 (40 %), p = 0.47) nor BDI-II score differed across subtypes B and C. HIV+ group may be more likely to experience current MDD than HIV-. This was the first study to compare the frequency and severity of MDD in HIV subtypes B and C; we found no difference between HIV subtypes B and C.

Preliminary indications of the effect of a brief yoga intervention on markers of inflammation and DNA methylation in chronically stressed women

Yoga is associated with reduced stress and increased well-being, although the molecular basis for these benefits is not clear. Mounting evidence implicates the immune response, with current studies focused on protein immune markers (such as cytokines) in clinical populations. To explore the molecular impact, this pilot study uses a subsample (n=28) from a randomised waitlist control trial investigating the impact of an 8-week yoga intervention in a community population of women reporting psychological distress (N=116). We measured interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and C-reactive protein (CRP) protein levels, and the DNA methylation of these genes and the global indicator, LINE-1. Correlations between these and psychological variables were explored, identifying moderate correlations with CRP protein levels, and methylation of IL-6, CRP and LINE-1. Many cytokine samples were below detection, however a Mann-Whitney U demonstrated a trend of moderate between-group effect for elevated IL-6 in the yoga group. Methylation analyses applied cross-sectional and non-controlled longitudinal analyses. Waist-to-height ratio and age were covaried. We demonstrated reduced methylation of the TNF region in the yoga group relative to the waitlist control group. No other genes demonstrated a significant difference. Longitudinal analysis further supported these results. This study is one of the first to explore yoga and immunological markers in a non-clinical population, and is the first study to explore DNA methylation. These findings indicate that further research into molecular impact of yoga on markers of immune function is warranted, with larger studies required.

Co-occurring Depression, Chronic Pain and Substance Use Disorders in People with Hepatitis C

Chronic infection with Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is common and can result in serious and sometimes fatal liver complications. The impact of HCV on the liver can be further complicated by medical and psychological comorbidities. Depression, substance use, and pain syndromes are frequent co-morbid conditions in people with HCV and diminish functioning, quality of life, and treatment compliance. Understanding the underlying biological mechanisms of these comorbid conditions within the context of HCV may help elucidate factors contributing to their co-occurrence, perhaps mediatedviapro-inflammatory cytokines. The current review provides a synthesis of the literature on depression, substance use disorders and chronic pain in the presence of HCV. The review includes studies conducted with both veteran and civilian populations. The implications for assessment and antiviral treatment of HCV will be considered.

Alcohol intake alters immune responses and promotes CNS viral persistence in mice

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection leads to progressive liver disease and is associated with a variety of extrahepatic effects, including central nervous system (CNS) damage and neuropsychiatric impairments. Alcohol abuse can exacerbate these adverse effects on brain and behavior, but the molecular mechanisms are not well understood. This study investigated the role of alcohol in regulating viral persistence and CNS immunopathology in mice infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), a model for HCV infections in humans. Female and male BALB/c mice (n=94) were exposed to alcohol (ethanol; EtOH) and water (or water only) using a two-bottle choice paradigm, followed one week later by infection with either LCMV clone 13 (causes chronic infection similar to chronic HCV), LCMV Armstrong (causes acute infection), or vehicle. Mice were monitored for 60days post-infection and continued to receive 24-h access to EtOH and water. Animals infected with LCMV clone 13 drank more EtOH, as compared to those with an acute or no viral infection. Six weeks after infection with LCMV clone 13, mice with EtOH exposure evidenced higher serum viral titers, as compared to mice without EtOH exposure. EtOH intake was also associated with reductions in virus-specific CD8(+) T cell frequencies (particularly CD11a(hi) subsets) and evidence of persistent CNS viremia in chronically infected mice. These findings support the hypothesis that EtOH use and chronic viral infection can result in combined toxic effects accelerating CNS damage and neuropsychiatric dysfunction and suggest that examining the role of EtOH in regulating viral persistence and CNS immunopathology in mice infected with LCMV can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of comorbid alcohol use disorder and chronic viral infection.

Impact of Depression and Inflammation on the Progression of HIV Disease

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) epidemic has negatively affected over 40 million people worldwide. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has improved life expectancy and changed the outcome of HIV-1 infection, making it a chronic and manageable disease. However, AIDS and non-AIDS comorbid illnesses persist during the course of infection despite the use of ART. In addition, the development of neuropsychiatric comorbidities (including depression) by HIV-infected subjects significantly affects quality of life, medication adherence, and disease prognosis. The factors associated with depression during HIV-1 infection include altered immune response, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and monoamine imbalance. Elevated plasma pro-inflammatory cytokine levels contribute to the development of depression and depressive-like behaviors in HIV⁺ subjects. In addition, comorbid depression influences the decline rates of CD4⁺ cell counts and increases plasma viral load. Depression can manifest in some subjects despite their adherence to ART. In addition, psychosocial factors related to stigma (negative attitudes, moral issues, and abuse of HIV⁺ subjects) are also associated with depression. Both neurobiological and psychosocial factors are important considerations for the effective clinical management of HIV and the prevention of HIV disease progression.

Sleep disturbance in substance use disorders and comorbid chronic viral infections

Sleep disruption is associated with both substance use disorders and chronic viral infections, which commonly co-occur. A greater understanding of how sleep is affected by substance abuse and comorbid chronic viral infections is needed, as fatigue, depression and other neuropsychiatric impairments caused by chronic viral infections can affect response to addiction treatment adversely.

Hepatitis regulation by the inflammasome signaling pathway

Hepatitis is damage and inflammation of the liver. It is triggered by both environmental and endogenous insults and is a platform for developing liver cirrhosis and cancer. Both innate and adaptive immune activation contribute to hepatic inflammation and disease. Viral hepatitis is the most common form of hepatitis and is typically associated with chronic viral infection. Alcohol-induced and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis are two rising hepatic problems. The innate immune inflammasome signaling cascade mediates the production of essential proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18. These cytokines regulate hepatic cell interaction and crosstalk of the various inflammatory pathways and influence disease outcome.

Major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder and response to treatment in hepatitis C patients in Egypt

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and associated correlates of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder in hepatitis C virus patients before and after treatment and to investigate the relationship between major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder and treatment response.

METHODS

A total of 116 consecutive hepatitis C virus patients from hepatitis C virus treatment center in Zagazig city, Egypt, were included in the study and divided into treated group (N = 58) and untreated group (N = 58). All hepatitis C virus patients were screened for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder using hospital anxiety and depression scale, and those who screened positive were interviewed to confirm the diagnosis of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder using DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria. These measures were done at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment or observation.

RESULTS

At baseline, 3.5% and 12.1% of hepatitis C virus patients (treated group) had major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, respectively. After 12 weeks of treatment 37.9% of hepatitis C virus patients (treated group) had major depressive disorder and 46.6% had generalized anxiety disorder. There was a significant statistical difference between hospital anxiety and depression scale scores for depression (3.3 ± 2.3 vs. 6.4 ± 3.2, t = 9.6, p = 0.001) and for anxiety (4.6 ± 2.4 vs. 7.3 ± 3.0, t = 10.2, p = 0.001) before and after treatment. There was also significant statistical difference between treated group and untreated group regarding hospital anxiety and depression scale scores after treatment and observation (depression, treated group 6.4 ± 3.2 vs. untreated group 4.0 ± 2.4, t = 3.7, p = 0.001; anxiety, treated group 7.3 ± 3.0 vs. untreated group 4.5 ± 2.3, t = 4.4, p = 0.001). There was no association between major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder and treatment response.

CONCLUSIONS

Major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder are common in hepatitis C virus patients after treatment with interferon and ribavirin and were not related to treatment response.

Plasma Inflammatory Factors Are Associated with Anxiety, Depression, and Cognitive Problems in Adults with and without Methamphetamine Dependence: An Exploratory Protein Array Study

OBJECTIVES

It is hypothesized that immune factors influence addictive behaviors and contribute to relapse. The primary study objectives were to (1) compare neuropsychiatric symptoms across adults with active methamphetamine (MA) dependence, in early remission from MA dependence, and with no history of substance dependence, (2) determine whether active or recent MA dependence affects the expression of immune factors, and (3) evaluate the association between immune factor levels and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using between group comparisons and regression analyses to investigate associations among variables. Eighty-four adults were recruited into control (CTL) (n = 31), MA-active (n = 17), or MA-remission (n = 36) groups. Participants completed self-report measures of anxiety, depression, and memory complaints and objective tests of attention and executive function. Blood samples were collected, and a panel of immune factors was measured using multiplex technology.

RESULTS

Relative to CTLs, MA-dependent adults evidenced greater anxiety and depression during active use (p < 0.001) and remission (p < 0.007), and more attention, memory, and executive problems during remission (p < 0.01) but not active dependence. Regression analyses identified 10 immune factors (putatively associated with cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions) associated with anxiety, depression, and memory problems.

CONCLUSION

While psychiatric symptoms are present during active MA dependence and remission, at least some cognitive difficulties emerge only during remission. Altered expression of a network of immune factors contributes to neuropsychiatric symptom severity.

Chronic hepatitis C, depression and gender: a state of art

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge regarding chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection, antiviral therapy, depression, and gender.

Design/methodology/approach

– CHC and its treatment options were reviewed examining their relationship with depression and gender.

Findings

– CHC is a high prevalent chronic infection worldwide, being similar in men and women. However, the infection shows many gender differences in terms of innate response, genetic variability (i.e. IL-28B), route of transmission (i.e. intravenous drug use), disease progression (i.e. fibrosis), lifetime period (i.e. pregnancy), and risk factors (i.e. HIV). Both the hepatitis C infection and antiviral treatment (especially when using the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon α), are highly associated with depression, where female gender constitutes a risk factor. It seems that the new direct-acting antiviral combinations produce fewer neuropsychiatric side effects. In fact, the presence of depression at baseline is no longer a limitation for the initiation of antiviral treatment. Antidepressant drugs have been recommended as current depression and prophylactic treatment in risk subgroups. However, caution should be exercised due to the risk of drug-drug interactions with some antiviral drugs. Women should be counselled prenatal, during and after pregnancy, taking into account the clinical situation, and the available evidence of the risks and benefits of antiviral and antidepressant treatments. Multidisciplinary approach shows cost-efficacy results.

Originality/value

– The paper clarifies the complex management of CHC therapy and the importance of individualizing treatment. The results also underline the need for an integrated multidisciplinary approach.

Cerebral Response to Peripheral Challenge with a Viral Mimetic

It has been well established that peripheral inflammation resulting from microbial infections profoundly alters brain function. This review focuses on experimental systems that model cerebral effects of peripheral viral challenge. The most common models employ the induction of the acute phase response via intraperitoneal injection of a viral mimetic, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (PIC). The ensuing transient surge of blood-borne inflammatory mediators induces a "mirror" inflammatory response in the brain characterized by the upregulated expression of a plethora of genes encoding cytokines, chemokines and other inflammatory/stress proteins. These inflammatory mediators modify the activity of neuronal networks leading to a constellation of behavioral traits collectively categorized as the sickness behavior. Sickness behavior is an important protective response of the host that has evolved to enhance survival and limit the spread of infections within a population. However, a growing body of clinical data indicates that the activation of inflammatory pathways in the brain may constitute a serious comorbidity factor for neuropathological conditions. Such comorbidity has been demonstrated using the PIC paradigm in experimental models of Alzheimer's disease, prion disease and seizures. Also, prenatal or perinatal PIC challenge has been shown to disrupt normal cerebral development of the offspring resulting in phenotypes consistent with neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and autism. Remarkably, recent studies indicate that mild peripheral PIC challenge may be neuroprotective in stroke. Altogether, the PIC challenge paradigm represents a unique heuristic model to elucidate the immune-to-brain communication pathways and to explore preventive strategies for neuropathological disorders.

Depression rather than liver impairment reduces quality of life in patients with hepatitis C

OBJECTIVE

Patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) have a poorer quality of life than those with other chronic liver diseases. However, some of the factors that determine health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in these patients, such as the degree of liver fibrosis, are still controversial. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of CHC on HRQOL by conducting clinical, psychiatric, and sociodemographic evaluations.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty-four consecutive patients attending a referral center for hepatitis were evaluated using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatry Interview, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to quantify independent associations between HRQOL and the clinical, psychiatric, and sociodemographic variables of interest.

RESULTS

Reduced HRQOL was independently associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and with elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase, but was not associated with hepatic cirrhosis.

CONCLUSIONS

MDD rather than the grade of liver fibrosis was strongly associated with HRQOL impairment in patients with CHC. These findings highlight that, in patients with CHC, the psychological effects of the disease deserve more attention and the implementation of integrated medical, psychiatric, and psychological care may be helpful.

Hepatitis C virus infection and pain sensitivity in patients on methadone or buprenorphine maintenance therapy for opioid use disorders

BACKGROUND

Patients with opioid use disorders on opioid agonist therapy (OAT) have lower pain tolerance compared to controls. While chronic viral infections such as HCV and HIV have been associated with chronic pain in this population, no studies have examined their impact on pain sensitivity.

METHODS

We recruited 106 adults (41 uninfected controls; 40 HCV mono-infected; and 25 HCV/HIV co-infected) on buprenorphine or methadone to assess whether HCV infection (with or without HIV) was associated with increased experimental pain sensitivity and self-reported pain. The primary outcome was cold pain tolerance assessed by cold-pressor test. Secondary outcomes were cold pain thresholds, wind-up ratios to repetitive mechanical stimulation (i.e., temporal summation) and acute and chronic pain. Multivariable regression models evaluated associations between viral infection status and outcomes, adjusting for other factors.

RESULTS

No significant differences were detected across groups for primary or secondary outcomes. Adjusted mean cold pain tolerance was 25.7 (uninfected controls) vs. 26.8 (HCV mono-infection) vs. 25.3 (HCV/HIV co-infection) seconds (global p-value=0.93). Current pain appeared more prevalent among HCV mono-infected (93%) compared to HCV/HIV co-infected participants (76%) and uninfected controls (80%), as did chronic pain (77% vs. 64% vs. 61%, respectively). However, differences were not statistically significant in multivariable models.

CONCLUSION

This study did not detect an association between HCV infection and increased sensitivity to pain among adults with and without HIV who were treated with buprenorphine or methadone for opioid use disorders. Results reinforce that pain and hyperalgesia are common problems in this population.

Immune aging, dysmetabolism, and inflammation in neurological diseases

As we age, the immune system undergoes a process of senescence accompanied by the increased production of proinflammatory cytokines, a chronic subclinical condition named as “inflammaging”. Emerging evidence from human and experimental models suggest that immune senescence also affects the central nervous system and promotes neuronal dysfunction, especially within susceptible neuronal populations. In this review we discuss the potential role of immune aging, inflammation and metabolic derangement in neurological diseases. The discovery of novel therapeutic strategies targeting age-linked inflammation may promote healthy brain aging and the treatment of neurodegenerative as well as neuropsychiatric disorders.

A longitudinal study evaluating the effects of interferon-alpha therapy on cognitive and psychiatric function in adults with chronic hepatitis C

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively evaluate for changes in objective cognitive performance (attention, memory, and executive function) and psychiatric symptom severity (depression, anxiety, fatigue, and pain) in patients before, during and after interferon-alpha based therapy (IFN) for chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV).

METHODS

33 HCV+ adults were evaluated two months before IFN initiation (baseline), three months into IFN, and six months following IFN termination (IFN+ Group). 31 HCV+ adults who did not undergo IFN therapy were evaluated at baseline and six months later (IFN- Group). At each evaluation, participants completed the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery (NAB) Attention, Memory and Executive Functions Modules, the Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition (BDI), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Inventory (GADI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and Brief Pain Inventory (BPI).

RESULTS

Compared with the IFN- Group, the IFN+ Group experienced significantly (p<0.050) increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, fatigue and pain during IFN therapy relative to baseline. In the IFN+ Group, psychiatric symptoms generally returned to baseline levels following IFN termination. Sustained viral response was associated with significantly lower depression and fatigue. No significant changes in cognitive performance were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

During IFN, patients with HCV evidence significantly increased psychiatric symptoms, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, fatigue and pain. These psychiatric symptoms are generally short-term and remit following IFN termination, with increased benefit if viral clearance is achieved. However, IFN is not associated with significant declines in objective cognitive performance during or following IFN.

The Involvement of TNF-α in Cognitive Dysfunction Associated with Major Depressive Disorder: An Opportunity for Domain Specific Treatments

Major depressive disorder is a highly prevalent, chronic and recurring disorder, associated with substantial impairment in cognitive and interpersonal functions. Accumulating evidence suggests that inflammatory processes play an important role in the etio-pathogenesis, phenomenology, comorbidity and treatment of MDD. Suboptimal remission rates and the persistence of cognitive deficits contribute to functional impairment in MDD inviting the need for the development of mechanistically novel and domain specific treatment approaches. The MEDLINE/ Pubmed database was searched from inception to February, 9th, 2014 with combinations of the following search terms: 'TNF-alpha', 'depression', 'infliximab', 'etanercept', 'adalimumab', 'golimumab' and 'certolizumab'. Preclinical and clinical evidence linking TNF-α to MDD pathophysiology were reviewed as well as the current status of TNF-α modulators as novel agents for the treatment of MDD. Experimental models and clinical studies provide encouraging preliminary evidence for the efficacy of TNF- α antagonists in mitigating depressive symptoms and improving cognitive deficits. Further studies are warranted to confirm these data in larger randomized controlled trials in primary psychiatric populations. Translational research provides a promising perspective that may aid the development and/or repurposing of mechanism-based treatments for depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment in MDD.

Pain-related anxiety mediates the relationship between depressive symptoms and pain interference in veterans with hepatitis C

OBJECTIVE

Depression and chronic pain are common in persons chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), although little is known about the rate of co-occurrence or mechanisms by which they are associated. We evaluated whether pain-related anxiety mediates the relationship between depressive symptoms and pain-related physical functioning in patients with HCV.

METHODS

Patients with HCV (n=175) completed self-report measures assessing demographic characteristics, pain-related function and mental health. Path analyses examined direct effects of cognitive-affective and somatic symptoms of depression on pain interference and indirect effects of these relationships via four subscales of the Pain Anxiety Symptoms Scale-20.

RESULTS

Cognitive-affective and somatic symptoms of depression were positively and significantly related to pain interference. Pain-related anxiety mediated the relationship between both cognitive-affective and somatic symptoms of depression, and this mediation was predominantly accounted for by the escape-avoidance component of pain-related anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate a potential mediating role of pain-related anxiety, particularly escape-avoidance anxiety, on the relationship between depression and pain interference in patients with HCV. These findings suggest that escape-avoidance anxiety may be a particularly germane target for treatment in patients with HCV and chronic pain, particularly when depression, with characteristic features of withdrawal and inhibition, is a comorbid condition.

Insights from interferon-α-related depression for the pathogenesis of depression associated with inflammation

Interferon-α (IFN-α) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is administered as a therapeutic in highly prevalent medical conditions such as chronic hepatitis C and B virus infection, melanoma and lymphoma. IFN-α induces, to a clinically relevant degree, concentration, memory, drive and mood disturbances in almost half of all patients. For this reason, IFN-α is increasingly being replaced by more specifically acting drugs. In the past decades, IFN-α has offered a valuable insight into the pathogenesis of major depression, particularly in settings associated with inflammation. IFN-α triggers immune responses, hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis abnormalities and disturbances of brain metabolism resembling those in other depression states. IFN-α stimulates indoleamine-2,3 dioxygenase-1, activating the kynurenine pathway with reduced formation of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, excessive formation of the NMDA agonist quinolinic acid, and reduced formation of the NMDA antagonist kynurenic acid. In addition, IFN-α disturbs neurotrophic signaling and impedes neurite outgrowth, synaptic plasticity, endogenous neurogenesis and neuronal survival. Consequently, IFN-α-related depression may represent a model for the neurodegenerative changes that are noticed in late-life major depression. Indeed, the observation that brain responses in IFN-α-related depression resemble idiopathic depression is supported by the existence of common genetic signatures, among which of note, a number of neuronal survival and plasticity genes have been identified. In view of the high incidence of depressive symptoms, IFN-α-related depression is an attractive model for studying links between neuronal plasticity, neurodegeneration and depression. We predict that in the latter areas new targets for anti-depressant therapies could be identified, which may deepen our understanding of idiopathic major depression.