TNFAIP3 mRNA Level Is Associated with Psychological Anxiety in Major Depressive Disorder

Background: Major depressive disorder has been shown to be associated with inflammation and the dysregulation of innate immune responses. Previously, we showed an inverse correlation between the severity of depression and level of TNFAIP3 mRNA expression. The present study further evaluated the association between TNFAIP3 mRNA expression level and symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in 91 patients (20 men and 71 women). Methods: The relationships between subscores on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) and TNFAIP3 mRNA levels were assessed by multiple linear regression. Results: Only psychological anxiety on the HAMD-17 correlated significantly with TNFAIP3 mRNA expression. Other symptoms, such as depressed mood, insomnia, work and activities, and suicide, were not associated with TNFAIP3 mRNA expression. Conclusion: These findings suggest a significant association between anxiety and TNFAIP3 mRNA levels in patients with MDD.