Neuron-specific enolase levels in drug-naïve young adults with major depressive disorder

Alterations in the Blood-Brain Barrier in Mood Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Depressive disorders and suicidal behaviors represent major causes of health loss. Modifications of brain microvasculature, and specifically alterations of the blood-brain barrier have been supposed to participate in the vulnerability to those disorders along with cognitive impairment, especially in the older adults. In this article, we addressed evidence linking blood-brain barrier impairments with mood disorders and suicide. Secondly, we investigated their relationship with depression in old age, and with neurodegenerative processes. Particular attention was drawn toward the potential interactions between the coagulation processes and the blood-brain barrier dysfunctions, as innovative treatment strategies may emerge from research in those fields. Overall, the studies reviewed highlight the implication of multiple dysfunctions of the blood-brain barrier in mood disorders and suicide. Impairments of the blood-brain barrier show relationships with altered expression of endothelial cell junction proteins. These modifications also implicate receptors of the extracellular matrix, the vascular endothelial growth factor, changes in perivascular astrocytes, and has links with local and systemic inflammatory processes. Dysfunctions of the blood-brain barrier underly chronic stress and participate in psychiatric diathesis in old age. In addition, we outline that coagulation processes are likely to interact with the blood-brain barrier and further contribute to neurodegenerative disorders. In conclusion, new pathophysiological models offer perspectives toward detecting new biomarkers in mood disorders and suicide. In parallel, these models open avenues for developing innovative therapeutic agents, although further considering their potential risks and eventual benefits is needed.

Elevated neuron specific enolase levels in post-traumatic stress disorder

Neuron-specific enolase (NSE) is a biomarker indicative of neuronal cell damage. The aim of this study is to assess the NSE levels in patients diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Blood samples were collected from 43 individuals with PTSD (age range 11-17), 43 individuals with MDD (age range 10-17), and 40 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The NSE levels were analyzed, and participants completed the Post-traumatic Stress Reaction Index, the Children's Depression Inventory, and the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders. Additionally, the Clinical Global Impressions Scale was filled out by the researcher. Results indicated that the NSE levels in the PTSD group were significantly higher than those in both the MDD group and the healthy control group. No significant difference in NSE levels was observed between the MDD group and the healthy control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that elevated NSE levels in PTSD may be indicative of stress-related neuronal damage, distinguishing PTSD from MDD and healthy controls. These results underline the need for further research to explore the potential of NSE as a biomarker for PTSD and its implications for diagnosis and intervention strategies.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Neuron-specific enolase (NSE) is a biomarker indicative of neuronal cell damage. • Elevated NSE levels have been observed in certain neuropsychiatric and neurological conditions, reflecting neuronal damage or stress.

WHAT IS NEW

• NSE levels in adolescents with PTSD are significantly higher than those in both MDD patients and healthy controls, suggesting a specific association with trauma-related neuronal damage. • No significant difference in NSE levels was observed between MDD patients and healthy controls, highlighting the distinct neurobiological impact of trauma compared to depressive disorders.

Effects of auriculotherapy on anxiety and biomarkers in Primary Health Care: a clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

to assess the effects of auriculotherapy on anxiety and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B) serum levels in adults assisted in Primary Health Care.

METHODS

a pre-experimental pilot clinical trial. Information was obtained from 19 patients using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and analysis of BDNF, NSE and S100B serum levels.

RESULTS

the pre-intervention anxiety score in the IDATE-Trait was 52.11±6.691 (CV 12.84%) and the assessment after auriculotherapy was significantly lower (43.72±8.141; CV 18.62%; P=0.0007). S100B levels were significantly reduced after auriculotherapy (from 64.03±72.18 to 54.03±68.53 pg/mL; CV 126.8%; P=0.0023).

CONCLUSION

auriculotherapy effectively reduced anxiety levels. It proved to be safe and easy to apply, allowing nurses to perform this technique autonomously. A reduction of S100B was also evidenced, demonstrating possible prevention of neuronal damage.

Plasma Neuronal and Glial Markers and Anterior Cingulate Metabolite Levels in Major Depressive Disorder: A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Neuroglial functions may be deteriorated in major depressive disorder (MDD).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the markers of glial and neuronal cell turnover and to explore their associations with brain metabolites.

METHODS

In 10 participants with MDD and 10 healthy controls (HC) we investigated neuronal and glial plasma markers (the neuron-specific enolase, NSE; and S100beta, S100B) and brain metabolites (N-acetyl aspartate, NAA; total choline, Cho; and total creatine, Cr). Blood was collected for NSE and S100B. NAA, Cho, and Cr metabolite levels were measured in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) at 3T.

RESULTS

NSE and S100B levels were significantly higher in MDD subjects than in HC. The Cr level was significantly higher in MDD subjects than in HC, but the NAA and Cho levels did not differ between groups. NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios were significantly lower in patients with MDD versus HC. S100B was negatively correlated with the Cho levels.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide supporting evidence of neuronal and glial distress in MDD. Neuronal viability appears decreased, whereas glial regenerative activity and energy metabolism in the ACC increase in acute major depressive episode. Since low concentrations of S100B have neuroplastic effects, these changes may indicate a possible compensatory mechanism.