A mood state-specific interaction between kynurenine metabolism and inflammation is present in bipolar disorder

The major biogenic amine metabolites in mood disorders

Mood disorders, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, have a profound impact on more than 300 million people worldwide. It has been demonstrated mood disorders were closely associated with deviations in biogenic amine metabolites, which are involved in numerous critical physiological processes. The peripheral and central alteration of biogenic amine metabolites in patients may be one of the potential pathogeneses of mood disorders. This review provides a concise overview of the latest research on biogenic amine metabolites in mood disorders, such as histamine, kynurenine, and creatine. Further studies need larger sample sizes and multi-center collaboration. Investigating the changes of biogenic amine metabolites in mood disorders can provide biological foundation for diagnosis, offer guidance for more potent treatments, and aid in elucidating the biological mechanisms underlying mood disorders.

Dysregulation of the Kynurenine Pathway, Cytokine Expression Pattern, and Proteomics Profile Link to Symptomology in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) is believed to play a significant role in neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders. While some evidence links the KP to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), further studies are needed to clarify the overall picture of how inflammation-driven KP disturbances may contribute to symptomology in ME/CFS. Here, we report that plasma levels of most bioactive KP metabolites differed significantly between ME/CFS patients and healthy controls in a manner consistent with their known contribution to symptomology in other neurological disorders. Importantly, we found that enhanced production of the first KP metabolite, kynurenine (KYN), correlated with symptom severity, highlighting the relationship between inflammation, KP dysregulation, and ME/CFS symptomology. Other significant changes in the KP included lower levels of the downstream KP metabolites 3-HK, 3-HAA, QUIN, and PIC that could negatively impact cellular energetics. We also rationalized KP dysregulation to changes in the expression of inflammatory cytokines and, for the first time, assessed levels of the iron (Fe)-regulating hormone hepcidin that is also inflammation-responsive. Levels of hepcidin in ME/CFS decreased nearly by half, which might reflect systemic low Fe levels or possibly ongoing hypoxia. We next performed a proteomics screen to survey for other significant differences in protein expression in ME/CFS. Interestingly, out of the seven most significantly modulated proteins in ME/CFS patient plasma, 5 proteins have roles in maintaining gut health, which considering the new appreciation of how gut microbiome and health modulates systemic KP could highlight a new explanation of symptomology in ME/CFS patients and potential new prognostic biomarker/s and/or treatment avenues.

Serum neuroactive metabolites of the tryptophan pathway in patients with acute phase of affective disorders

Background

Many studies showed disrupted tryptophan metabolism in patients with affective disorders. The aims of this study were to explore the differences in the metabolites of tryptophan pathway (TP) and the relationships between TP metabolites and clinical symptoms, therapeutic effect in patients with bipolar disorder with acute manic episode (BD-M), depressive episode (BD-D) and major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

Patients with BD-M (n=52) and BD-D (n=39), MDD (n=48) and healthy controls (HCs, n=49) were enrolled. The serum neuroactive metabolites levels of the TP were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Hamilton Depression Scale-17 item (HAMD-17) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) were used to evaluate depressive and manic symptoms at baseline and after 8 weeks of antidepressants, mood stabilizers, some also received antipsychotic medication.

Results

The levels of tryptophan (TRP) and kynurenic acid (KYNA) were significantly lower and the ratios of tryptophan/kynurenine (TRP/KYN), 5-hydroxytryptamine/tryptophan (5-HT/TRP), quinolinic acid/kynurenic acid (QUIN/KYNA) were higher in BD-M, BD-D, MDD vs. HC. The levels of QUIN and the ratios of QUIN/KYNA were higher in BD-M than in BD-D, MDD, and HCs. The 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) levels of patients with MDD were significantly higher than those in BD-M and BD-D. Binary logistic regression analysis showed the lower peripheral KYNA, the higher the QUIN level, and the higher the risk of BD-M; the lower peripheral KYNA and the higher KYN/TRP and 5-HT/TRP, the higher the risk of BD-D; and the lower the peripheral KYNA level and the higher the KYN/TRP and 5-HT/TRP, the higher the risk of MDD. Correlation analysis, showing a significant association between tryptophan metabolites and improvement of clinical symptoms, especially depression symptoms.

Conclusions

Patients with affective disorders had abnormal tryptophan metabolism, which involved in 5-HT and kynurenine pathway (KP) sub-pathway. Tryptophan metabolites might be potential biomarkers for affective disorders and some metabolites have been associated with remission of depressive symptoms.

Association between polymorphisms of TLR2-1-6 and bipolar disorder in a tunisian population

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex neuropsychiatric disease that has been strongly linked to immune dysregulation. In particular, an abnormal inflammatory response mediated by toll-like receptor 2 - 1/6 (TLR2-1/6) was described in BD. Nevertheless, genetic factors' contribution is still unknown. Thus, we suggested that functional polymorphisms of TLR2, 1 and 6 could be involved in BD predisposition.

METHODS AND RESULTS

TLR2, 1 and 6 polymorphisms were genotyped by PCR-RFLP in 292 controls and 131 patients from a Tunisian population. Polymorphisms and haplotype associations were explored in BD and binary logistic regression analysis was performed for more powerful associations. In dominant model, we found a significantly higher genotype and minor allele frequencies in healthy females compared to patients for TLR2-196-174Ins/Del (p = 0.04; OR = 0.3, p = 0.04; OR = 0.3, respectively) and for TLR6-S249P only with minor allele (p = 0.03; OR = 0.2). In contrast, TLR2-R677W CT + TT and T allele frequencies were significantly higher in BD (padjusted<10- 4; ORadjusted =46.6, p < 10- 4; OR = 6.3, respectively), specifically in females (CT + TT: 100%). Similarly, TLR1-R80T showed significantly increased GC + CC and C allele frequencies in patients compared to controls (padjusted=0.04; ORadjusted=4, p = 0.009; OR = 4.3, respectively). Moreover, haplotype investigation demonstrated that InsGTCGT (p < 10- 4, OR = 275) and delGCCGT (p = 0.03, OR = 18.5) were significantly overrepresented in BD patients compared to controls.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that TLR2-196-174Ins/Del and TLR6-S249P could be protective factors of females against BD. However, TLR2-R677W and TLR1-R80T could be strongly associated with higher risk of BD. Interestingly, TLR2-R677W could be a genetic marker for BD in females. However, further studies with larger groups are needed to confirm these findings.

Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI) at Baseline Predicts Clinical Response for a Subset of Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Depressed Patients

Background: in a recent double-blind, placebo controlled RCT we demonstrated that selective inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX2) is an effective adjunctive strategy in treatment-resistant bipolar depression (TRBDD). To better clarify the mechanisms underlying TRBDD and treatment response, we conducted a retrospective exploratory analysis of the systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI = absolute neutrophils × absolute monocytes/absolute lymphocytes) in relation to other biomarkers and clinical outcomes after escitalopram (ESC), combined with the COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib (CBX), versus placebo. Methods: Baseline measures of SIRI were compared between TRBDD and healthy controls (HC), and correlated with blood-based inflammatory cytokines, kynurenines, and growth factors. Post-treatment Hamilton Depression Rating Scale 17 (HAMD-17) total scores (clinical outcome) were modelled according to SIRI adjusting for demographics (including relevant interactions with SIRI), baseline depression, treatment arm, and treatment timepoint using multiple linear regression and robust linear mixed effects models. Results: Baseline SIRI did not distinguish TRBDD from HC groups. Baseline SIRI was significantly correlated with lower baseline MCP-1. The relationship between SIRI and HAMD-17 was significant at treatment week 8, in contrast to baseline. Finally, baseline SIRI predicted elevated post-treatment HAMD-17 scores, amongst patients with elevated depression scores at baseline. Significance: High pre-treatment SIRI may predict poorer depressive outcomes amongst TRBDD patients with baseline elevated depression.

Microbiota-gut-brain axis mechanisms in the complex network of bipolar disorders: potential clinical implications and translational opportunities

Bipolar disorders (BD) represent a severe leading disabling mental condition worldwide characterized by episodic and often progressive mood fluctuations with manic and depressive stages. The biological mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of BD remain incompletely understood, but it seems that there is a complex picture of genetic and environmental factors implicated. Nowadays, gut microbiota is in the spotlight of new research related to this kind of psychiatric disorder, as it can be consistently related to several pathophysiological events observed in BD. In the context of the so-called microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis, it is shown to have a strong influence on host neuromodulation and endocrine functions (i.e., controlling the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin or mediating the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), as well as in modulation of host immune responses, critically regulating intestinal, systemic and brain inflammation (neuroinflammation). The present review aims to elucidate pathophysiological mechanisms derived from the MGB axis disruption and possible therapeutic approaches mainly focusing on gut microbiota in the complex network of BD. Understanding the mechanisms of gut microbiota and its bidirectional communication with the immune and other systems can shed light on the discovery of new therapies for improving the clinical management of these patients. Besides, the effect of psychiatric drugs on gut microbiota currently used in BD patients, together with new therapeutical approaches targeting this ecosystem (dietary patterns, probiotics, prebiotics, and other novelties) will also be contemplated.

Advances in kynurenine analysis

Kynurenine, the first product of tryptophan degradation via the kynurenine pathway, has become one of the most frequently mentioned biomarkers in recent years. Its levels in the body indicate the state of the human physiology. Human serum and plasma are the main matrixes used to evaluate kynurenine levels and liquid chromatography is the dominant technique for its determination. However, their concentrations in blood do not always correspond to the levels in other matrixes obtained from the affected individuals. It is therefore important to decide when it is appropriate to analyse kynurenine in alternative matrices. However, liquid chromatography may not be the best option for the analysis. This review presents alternatives that can be used and summarizes the features that need to be considered prior to kynurenine determination. Possible approaches to kynurenine analysis in a variety of human matrixes, their challenges, and limitations are critically discussed.

Kynurenine pathway abnormalities are state-specific but not diagnosis-specific in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

Schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BD) are associated with immunological dysfunctions that have been hypothesized to lead to clinical symptomatology in particular through kynurenine pathway abnormalities. The aim of this study was thus to investigate the impact of serum kynurenine metabolite levels on diagnosis, clinical state, symptom severity and clinical course in a large French transdiagnostic cohort of SCZ and BD patients. Four patient groups (total n = 507) were included in a cross-sectional observational study: 1) hospitalized acute bipolar patients (n = 205); 2) stable bipolar outpatients (n = 116); 3) hospitalized acute schizophrenia patients (n = 111) and 4) stable schizophrenia outpatients (n = 75), in addition to healthy controls (HC) (n = 185). The quantitative determination of serum kynurenine metabolites was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Kynurenine levels were lower in all patients combined compared to HC while ANCOVA analyses did not reveal inter-diagnostic difference between SCZ and BD. Interestingly, hospitalized patients of both diagnostic groups combined displayed significantly lower kynurenine levels than stabilized outpatients. Psychotic symptoms were associated with lower quinaldic acid (F = 9.18, p=<.001), which is KAT-driven, whereas a longer duration of illness contributed to abnormalities in tryptophan (F = 5.41, p = .023), kynurenine (F = 16.93, p=<.001), xanthurenic acid (F = 9.34, p = .002), quinolinic acid (F = 9.18, p = .003) and picolinic acid (F = 4.15, p = .043), metabolized through the KMO-branch. These data confirm illness state rather than diagnosis to drive KP alterations in SCZ and BD. Lower levels of KP metabolites can thus be viewed as a transdiagnostic feature of SCZ and BD, independently associated with acute symptomatology and a longer duration of illness. Quinaldic acid has seldomly been investigated by previous studies and appears an important state marker in SCZ and BD. As serum samples are used in this study, it is not possible to extrapolate these findings to the brain.

Association between Diffusion Tensor Imaging, inflammation and immunological alterations in unipolar and bipolar depression: A review

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Bipolar Disorder Depression (BDD) are common psychiatric illnesses characterized by structural and functional brain alterations and signs of neuroinflammation. In line with the neuroinflammatory pathogenesis of depressive syndromes, recent studies have demonstrated how white matter (WM) microstructural impairments detected by Diffusion Tensor Imaging, are correlated to peripheral immunomarkers in depressed patients. In this context, we performed a comprehensive systematic search on PubMed, Medline and Scopus of the original studies published till June 2022, exploring the association between immunomarkers and WM alteration patterns in patients affected by MDD or BDD. Overall, the studies included in this review showed a consistent association between blood proinflammatory and counter-regulatory immunomarkers, including regulatory T cells and natural killer cells markers, as well as measures of demyelination and dysmyelination in both MDD and BDD patients. These pathogenetic insights could outline an integrated clinical perspective to affective disorders, helping psychiatrists to develop novel biotype-to-phenotype models of depression and opening the way to tailored approaches in treatments.

The tryptophan catabolite or kynurenine pathway in major depressive and bipolar disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

There is now evidence that affective disorders including major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) are mediated by immune-inflammatory and nitro-oxidative pathways. Activation of these pathways may be associated with activation of the tryptophan catabolite (TRYCAT) pathway by inducing indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO, the rate-limiting enzyme) leading to depletion of tryptophan (TRP) and increases in tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs).

Aims

To systematically review and meta-analyze central and peripheral (free and total) TRP levels, its competing amino-acids (CAAs) and TRYCATs in MDD and BD.

Methods

This review searched PubMed, Google Scholar and SciFinder and included 121 full-text articles and 15470 individuals, including 8024 MDD/BD patients and 7446 healthy controls.

Results

TRP levels (either free and total) and the TRP/CAAs ratio were significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) in MDD/BD as compared with controls with a moderate effect size (standardized mean difference for TRP: SMD = -0.513, 95% confidence interval, CI: -0.611; -0.414; and TRP/CAAs: SMD = -0.558, CI: -0.758; -0.358). Kynurenine (KYN) levels were significantly decreased in patients as compared with controls with a small effect size (p < 0.0001, SMD = -0.213, 95%CI: -0.295; -0.131). These differences were significant in plasma (p < 0.0001, SMD = -0.304, 95%CI: -0.415, -0.194) but not in serum (p = 0.054) or the central nervous system (CNS, p = 0.771). The KYN/TRP ratio, frequently used as an index of IDO activity, and neurotoxicity indices based on downstream TRYCATs were unaltered or even lowered in MDD/BD.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that MDD and BD are accompanied by TRP depletion without IDO and TRYCAT pathway activation. Lowered TRP availability is probably the consequence of lowered serum albumin during the inflammatory response in affective disorders.

Investigation of Genetic Variants Associated with Tryptophan Metabolite Levels via Serotonin and Kynurenine Pathways in Patients with Bipolar Disorder

The kynurenine pathway (KP) may play a role in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD). We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify genetic variants associated with the plasma levels of the metabolites of tryptophan (TRP) via the serotonin (5-HT) and kynurenine (KYN) pathways in 44 patients with BD and 45 healthy controls. We assessed whether variants that were differentially associated with metabolite levels based on the diagnostic status improved the prediction accuracy of BD using penalized regression approaches. We identified several genetic variants that were significantly associated with metabolites (5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), TRP, and quinolinic acid (QA) or metabolite ratios (5-HTP/TRP and KYN/TRP) and for which the diagnostic status exerted a significant effect. The inclusion of genetic variants led to increased accuracy in the prediction of the BD diagnostic status. Specifically, we obtained an accuracy of 0.77 using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression. The predictors retained as informative in this model included body mass index (BMI), the levels of TRP, QA, and 5-HT, the 5-HTP/TRP ratio, and genetic variants associated with the levels of QA (rs6827515, rs715692, rs425094, rs4645874, and rs77048355) and TRP (rs292212) or the 5-HTP/TRP ratio (rs7902231). In conclusion, our study identified statistically significant associations between metabolites of TRP via the 5-HT and KYN pathways and genetic variants at the genome-wide level. The discriminative performance of penalized regression models incorporating clinical, genetic, and metabolic predictors warrants a follow-up analysis of this panel of determinants.

The association of kynurenine pathway metabolites with symptom severity and clinical features of bipolar disorder: An overview

BACKGROUND

The balance between neurotoxic and neuroprotective effects of kynurenine pathway (KP) components has been recently proposed as a key element in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD) and related mood episodes. This comprehensive overview explored the link of KP with symptom severity and other clinical features of BD.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, and PsycInfo electronic databases for studies assessing the association of peripheral and/or central concentrations of KP metabolites with putative clinical features, including symptom severity and other clinical domains in BD.

RESULTS

We included the findings of 13 observational studies investigating the possible variations of KP metabolites according to symptom severity, psychotic features, suicidal behaviors, and sleep disturbances in BD. Studies testing the relationship between KP metabolites and depression severity generated mixed and inconsistent findings. No statistically significant correlations with manic symptoms were found. Moreover, heterogeneous variations of the KP across different clinical domains were shown. Few available studies found (a) higher levels of cerebrospinal fluid kynurenic acid and lower of plasma quinolinic acid in BD with psychotic features, (b) lower central and peripheral picolinic acid levels in BD with suicide attempts, and (c) no significant correlations between KP metabolites and BD-related sleep disturbances.

CONCLUSIONS

An imbalance of KP metabolism toward the neurotoxic branches is likely to occur in people with BD, though evidence on variations according to specific clinical features of BD is less clear. Additional research is needed to clarify the role of KP in the etiopathogenesis of BD and related clinical features.

Is SARS-CoV-2 a Risk Factor of Bipolar Disorder?-A Narrative Review

For 2.5 years we have been facing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its health, social and economic effects. One of its known consequences is the development of neuropsychiatric diseases such as anxiety and depression. However, reports of manic episodes related to COVID-19 have emerged. Mania is an integral part of the debilitating illness-bipolar disorder (BD). Due to its devastating effects, it is therefore important to establish whether SARS-CoV-2 infection is a causative agent of this severe mental disorder. In this narrative review, we discuss the similarities between the disorders caused by SARS-CoV-2 and those found in patients with BD, and we also try to answer the question of whether SARS-CoV-2 infection may be a risk factor for the development of this affective disorder. Our observation shows that disorders in COVID-19 showing the greatest similarity to those in BD are cytokine disorders, tryptophan metabolism, sleep disorders and structural changes in the central nervous system (CNS). These changes, especially intensified in severe infections, may be a trigger for the development of BD in particularly vulnerable people, e.g., with family history, or cause an acute episode in patients with a pre-existing BD.

The Tryptophan Catabolite or Kynurenine Pathway in a Major Depressive Episode with Melancholia, Psychotic Features and Suicidal Behaviors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) with melancholia and psychotic features and suicidal behaviors are accompanied by activated immune-inflammatory and oxidative pathways, which may stimulate indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), the first and rate-limiting enzyme of the tryptophan catabolite (TRYCAT) pathway resulting in increased tryptophan degradation and elevated tryptophan catabolites (TRYCTAs). The purpose of the current study is to systematically review and meta-analyze levels of TRP, its competing amino acids (CAAs) and TRYCATs in patients with severe affective disorders. Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar and SciFinder were searched in the present study and we recruited 35 studies to examine 4647 participants including 2332 unipolar (MDD) and bipolar (BD) depressed patients and 2315 healthy controls. Severe patients showed significant lower (p < 0.0001) TRP (standardized mean difference, SMD = -0.517, 95% confidence interval, CI: -0.735; -0.299) and TRP/CAAs (SMD = -0.617, CI: -0.957; -0.277) levels with moderate effect sizes, while no significant difference in CAAs were found. Kynurenine (KYN) levels were unaltered in severe MDD/BD phenotypes, while the KYN/TRP ratio showed a significant increase only in patients with psychotic features (SMD = 0.224, CI: 0.012; 0.436). Quinolinic acid (QA) was significantly increased (SMD = 0.358, CI: 0.015; 0.701) and kynurenic acid (KA) significantly decreased (SMD = -0.260, CI: -0.487; -0.034) in severe MDD/BD. Patients with affective disorders with melancholic and psychotic features and suicidal behaviors showed normal IDO enzyme activity but a lowered availability of plasma/serum TRP to the brain, which is probably due to other processes such as low albumin levels.

The Role of Kynurenines in Cognitive Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder

INTRODUCTION

Chronic low-grade inflammation is suggested to play a pathophysiological role in bipolar disorder (BD) and its related cognitive dysfunctions. Although kynurenine (KYN) pathway metabolites are key inflammatory mediators, studies investigating the association between KYN metabolism and cognition in BD are scarce. We aimed to explore the relationship between KYN metabolism and cognitive functioning across different mood states in BD.

METHODS

Sixty-seven patients with BD (35 depressed and 32 [hypo] manic) and 29 healthy controls were included. Cognitive functioning was assessed at 3 time intervals (baseline, 4, and 8 months) assessing processing speed, sustained attention, verbal memory, working memory, and response inhibition. Plasma samples for quantification of 3-hydroxykynurenine, quinolinic acid, and kynurenic acid (KYNA) were concurrently provided. Linear mixed models were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The manic group showed deficits in all assessed cognitive domains with the exception of verbal memory at all test moments. The bipolar depression group showed deficits in the processing speed at all test moments. Throughout the whole follow-up period, KYNA was significantly lower in both patient groups than in controls. Only in the bipolar depression group, low KYNA was associated with worse global cognitive functioning (B = 0.114, p = 0.02) and slower processing speed in particular (B = 0.139, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Only in the bipolar depression group, lower KYNA was associated with worse cognitive functioning. Future large-scale longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm the role of KYN metabolites in cognitive impairment in patients with BD and the possible therapeutic implications of this relationship.

Inflammation-driven brain and gut barrier dysfunction in stress and mood disorders

Regulation of emotions is generally associated exclusively with the brain. However, there is evidence that peripheral systems are also involved in mood, stress vulnerability vs. resilience, and emotion-related memory encoding. Prevalence of stress and mood disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder is increasing in our modern societies. Unfortunately, 30%-50% of individuals respond poorly to currently available treatments highlighting the need to further investigate emotion-related biology to gain mechanistic insights that could lead to innovative therapies. Here, we provide an overview of inflammation-related mechanisms involved in mood regulation and stress responses discovered using animal models. If clinical studies are available, we discuss translational value of these findings including limitations. Neuroimmune mechanisms of depression and maladaptive stress responses have been receiving increasing attention, and thus, the first part is centered on inflammation and dysregulation of brain and circulating cytokines in stress and mood disorders. Next, recent studies supporting a role for inflammation-driven leakiness of the blood-brain and gut barriers in emotion regulation and mood are highlighted. Stress-induced exacerbated inflammation fragilizes these barriers which become hyperpermeable through loss of integrity and altered biology. At the gut level, this could be associated with dysbiosis, an imbalance in microbial communities, and alteration of the gut-brain axis which is central to production of mood-related neurotransmitter serotonin. Novel therapeutic approaches such as anti-inflammatory drugs, the fast-acting antidepressant ketamine, and probiotics could directly act on the mechanisms described here improving mood disorder-associated symptomatology. Discovery of biomarkers has been a challenging quest in psychiatry, and we end by listing promising targets worth further investigation.

Elevated C-reactive protein among symptomatic youth with bipolar disorder

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

Increased levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) are associated with mood symptoms in adults with bipolar disorder (BD). The few studies on this topic in youth with BD have not included controls. We, therefore, examined CRP levels in relation to symptomatic status in youth with and without BD.

METHODS

Participants included 154 youth (mean age 17 years; 48 asymptomatic BD, 39 symptomatic BD, 67 healthy controls (HC)). Rank analysis of covariance test examined group differences in CRP, controlling for age and sex. Correlation between CRP and mood symptom severity was examined using Spearman's correlation within the BD group.

RESULTS

There were significant group differences in CRP levels (F_(2,151) = 5.06, p = 0.007, ηp2=0.06); post hoc analyses showed higher CRP levels in the symptomatic BD group compared with HC (p = 0.01). In sensitivity analyses, this finding was no longer significant after controlling for body mass index (BMI). CRP was not significantly associated with symptomatic severity.

CONCLUSIONS

CRP levels are elevated among symptomatic youth with BD, partly related to BMI. As elevated BMI is associated with mood symptom burden, prospective studies are warranted to parse the associations among mood symptoms, BMI, and inflammation. Given the proportion of time that youth with BD are symptomatic, present findings raise concern about the long-term impact of elevated CRP on blood vessels, brain, and related clinical outcomes.

Selective association of cytokine levels and kynurenine/tryptophan ratio with alterations in white matter microstructure in bipolar but not in unipolar depression

Bipolar (BD) and major depression (MDD) disorders are severe mental illnesses characterised by altered levels of immune/inflammatory markers and disrupted white matter (WM) microstructure. A pro-inflammatory state was suggested to activate indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase which, in turn, increases the amount of tryptophan (Trp) converted into kynurenine (Kyn). We investigated whether plasma levels of Trp, Kyn and Kyn/Trp ratio are associated with peripheral levels of immune/inflammatory markers and whether they are related to WM integrity in 100 MDD and 66 BD patients. Patients also underwent MRI, and fractional anisotropy (FA) was estimated as a measure of WM microstructure. BD patients showed higher Kyn levels and Kyn/Trp ratio than MDD patients, and lower FA in several WM tracts, including the corpus callosum and the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFO). Lower Trp levels associated with a more severe depressive symptomatology irrespective of diagnosis and with lower FA in the corpus callosum (CC) and external capsule (EC). We found an association of immune/inflammatory markers with Kyn/Trp ratio selectively in BD patients: IL-1β and TNF-α showed a positive relationship and IL-2 and IL-9 a negative relationship; in addition, higher IL-4 correlated with lower Kyn levels; higher Kyn/Trp ratio and IL-1β correlated with lower FA in the CC and IFO. Notably, the detrimental effect of IL-1β on the IFO was moderated by the Kyn/Trp ratio. These data suggest that in BD, cytokines and the conversion of Trp into Kyn may affect WM microstructure and support the idea that distinct mechanisms underlie the pathophysiology of BD and MDD.

The relationship between immune and cognitive dysfunction in mood and psychotic disorder: a systematic review and a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In psychotic and mood disorders, immune alterations are hypothesized to underlie cognitive symptoms, as they have been associated with elevated blood levels of inflammatory cytokines, kynurenine metabolites, and markers of microglial activation. The current meta-analysis synthesizes all available clinical evidence on the associations between immunomarkers (IMs) and cognition in these psychiatric illnesses.

METHODS

Pubmed, Web of Science, and Psycinfo were searched for peer-reviewed studies on schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SZ), bipolar disorder (BD), or major depressive disorder (MDD) including an association analysis between at least one baseline neuropsychological outcome measure (NP) and one IM (PROSPERO ID:CRD42021278371). Quality assessment was performed using BIOCROSS. Correlation meta-analyses, and random effect models, were conducted in Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 3 investigating the association between eight cognitive domains and pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory indices (PII and AII) as well as individual IM.

RESULTS

Seventy-five studies (n = 29,104) revealed global cognitive performance (GCP) to be very weakly associated to PII (r = -0.076; p = 0.003; I² = 77.4) or AII (r = 0.067; p = 0.334; I² = 38.0) in the combined patient sample. Very weak associations between blood-based immune markers and global or domain-specific GCP were found, either combined or stratified by diagnostic subgroup (GCP x PII: SZ: r = -0.036, p = 0.370, I² = 70.4; BD: r = -0.095, p = 0.013, I² = 44.0; MDD: r = -0.133, p = 0.040, I² = 83.5). We found evidence of publication bias.

DISCUSSION

There is evidence of only a weak association between blood-based immune markers and cognition in mood and psychotic disorders. Significant publication and reporting biases were observed and most likely underlie the inflation of such associations in individual studies.

The kynurenine pathway in bipolar disorder: a meta-analysis on the peripheral blood levels of tryptophan and related metabolites

Growing evidence suggests that a dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) occurs in bipolar disorder (BD). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at assessing the possible differences in peripheral blood levels of KP metabolites between individuals with BD and healthy controls. We searched Medline, Embase, and PsycInfo electronic databases for articles indexed up to February 2020. We included any observational study comparing the peripheral blood levels of at least one KP metabolite between adults with BD and healthy controls. Random-effects meta-analyses were carried out generating pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs). Heterogeneity between studies was estimated using the I² index. Meta-regression and sensitivity analyses were conducted. Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria and were included in our study. Meta-analyses showed that individuals with BD have lower peripheral blood levels of tryptophan (SMD = -0.29), kynurenine (SMD = -0.28), kynurenic acid (SMD = -0.30), and xanthurenic acid (SMD = -0.55), along with lower kynurenic acid to kynurenine (SMD = -0.60) and kynurenic acid to quinolinic acid (SMD = -0.37) ratios, than healthy controls. Individuals with a manic episode showed the greatest reductions in tryptophan levels (SMD = -0.51), whereas kynurenic acid levels were more reduced among subjects in a depressive phase (SMD = -0.70). Meta-regression and sensitivity analyses confirmed our results. The findings of the present meta-analysis support the hypothesis of an abnormality of the KP in BD. Considering the partial inconsistency of the findings and the small-to-medium magnitude of the estimated effect sizes, additional research assessing possible mediators or confounders is needed.

Inflammatory signaling mechanisms in bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a decidedly heterogeneous and multifactorial disease, with a high individual and societal burden. While not all patients display overt markers of elevated inflammation, significant evidence suggests that aberrant immune signaling contributes to all stages of the disease, and likely explains the elevated rates of comorbid inflammatory illnesses seen in this population. While individual systems have been intensely studied and targeted, a relative paucity of attention has been given to the interconnecting role of inflammatory signals therein. This review presents an updated overview of some of the most prominent pathophysiologic mechanisms in bipolar disorder, from mitochondrial, endoplasmic reticular, and calcium homeostasis, to purinergic, kynurenic, and hormonal/neurotransmitter signaling, showing inflammation to act as a powerful nexus between these systems. Several areas with a high degree of mechanistic convergence within this paradigm are highlighted to present promising future targets for therapeutic development and screening.

Psychological symptoms and salivary inflammatory biomarkers in patients with dentofacial deformities: a case-control study

Individuals with dentofacial deformities often display a low quality of life (QoL) through biological mechanisms that remain unraveled. In this case–control study, the salivary levels of cytokines, glutamate, and kynurenine metabolites were assessed in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery (OS), while correlating these parameters with QoL and psychological symptoms. Thirty-six patients were enrolled in control (under orthodontic treatment) and test (undergoing OS) groups, matched by age and sex. The QoL was assessed through the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) and the Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ). The psychological symptoms were evaluated by the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). The salivary levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, glutamate, and kynurenine metabolites were evaluated. The OQLQ demonstrated increased QoL scores in the test group, regarding social aspects, facial esthetics, and function domains, without significant differences in respect to the other surveys. These patients displayed higher IL-1β and glutamate levels; conversely, the kynurenine metabolites were unaltered. The glutamate levels positively correlated with the OQLQ function scores. The data brings novel evidence about the psychobiological features of patients with dentofacial deformities, showing salivary variations of inflammatory biomarkers in these individuals.

Tryptophan Catabolites in Bipolar Disorder: A Meta-Analysis

Objective

Tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs) are implicated in the pathophysiology of mood disorders by mediating immune-inflammation and neurodegenerative processes. We performed a meta-analysis of TRYCAT levels in bipolar disorder (BD) patients compared to healthy controls.

Methods

A systematic literature search in seven electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, Emcare, PsycINFO, Academic Search Premier) was conducted on TRYCAT levels in cerebrospinal fluid or peripheral blood according to the PRISMA statement. A minimum of three studies per TRYCAT was required for inclusion. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were computed using random effect models. Subgroup analyses were performed for BD patients in a different mood state (depressed, manic). The methodological quality of the studies was rated using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Quality assessment Scale.

Results

Twenty-one eligible studies were identified. Peripheral levels of tryptophan (SMD = -0.44; p < 0.001), kynurenine (SMD = - 0.3; p = 0.001) and kynurenic acid (SMD = -.45; p = < 0.001) were lower in BD patients versus healthy controls. In the only three eligible studies investigating TRP in cerebrospinal fluid, tryptophan was not significantly different between BD and healthy controls. The methodological quality of the studies was moderate. Subgroup analyses revealed no significant difference in TRP and KYN values between manic and depressed BD patients, but these results were based on a limited number of studies.

Conclusion

The TRYCAT pathway appears to be downregulated in BD patients. There is a need for more and high-quality studies of peripheral and central TRYCAT levels, preferably using longitudinal designs.

Central levels of tryptophan metabolites in subjects with bipolar disorder

The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan degradation produces several neuroactive metabolites such as kynurenic acid (KYNA), quinolinic acid (QUIN), and picolinic acid (PIC) thought to be involved in the pathophysiology of psychosis, major depression, and suicidal behavior. Here, we analyzed cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of tryptophan, kynurenine, KYNA, QUIN, and PIC utilizing ultra-performance liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry system (UPLC-MS/MS) in persons with bipolar disorder (n = 101) and healthy controls (n = 80) to investigate if the metabolites correlated with depressive symptoms or to the history of suicidal behavior. Furthermore, we analyzed if genetic variants of the enzyme amino-β-carboxymuconate-semialdehyde-decarboxylase (ACMSD) were associated with the CSF concentrations of PIC and QUIN. We found that CSF KYNA and PIC concentrations, as well as the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio were increased in bipolar disorder compared with controls. CSF PIC concentrations were lower in subjects with a history of suicidal behavior than those without, supporting the hypothesis that low CSF PIC is a marker of vulnerability for suicidality. Bipolar subjects taking antidepressants had higher CSF concentrations of kynurenine and KYNA than subjects not given these medications. A negative association was found between a genetic variant of ACMSD and the ratio of PIC/QUIN, indicating that a polymorphism in ACMSD is associated with excess of QUIN formation at the expense of PIC. The present results confirm that the kynurenine pathway is activated in bipolar disorder, and suggest that shifting the activity of the kynurenine pathway away from QUIN production towards a production of KYNA and PIC might be a beneficial therapeutic strategy.

Involvement of Kynurenine Metabolism in Bipolar Disorder: An Updated Review

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe affective disorder, mainly characterized by alternative depressive and manic or hypomanic episodes, yet the pathogenesis of BD has not been fully elucidated. Recent researches have implicated the altered kynurenine (KYN) metabolism involved in the neurobiology of BD. Excessive activation of the immune system also occurs in patients with BD, which further accelerates the KYN pathway for tryptophan metabolism. Changes of the KYN metabolites have effects on neuronal receptors and are involved in neuroendocrine transmissions. Interactions between KYN metabolism and the immune system may contribute to the neuropathogenesis of BD. Various studies have shown that alterations of the KYN metabolites were associated with mood, psychotic symptoms, and cognitive functions in patients with BD. In this review, we briefly introduce the KYN pathway and describe the immune dysregulation in BD as well as their interactions. We then focus on the research advances on the KYN metabolism in BD, which hold promise for identifying novel treatment targets in patients stricken with this disorder.

Neurobiology of bipolar disorders: a review of genetic components, signaling pathways, biochemical changes, and neuroimaging findings

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic mental illness characterized by changes in mood that alternate between mania and hypomania or between depression and mixed states, often associated with functional impairment. Although effective pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments are available, several patients with BD remain symptomatic. The advance in the understanding of the neurobiology underlying BD could help in the identification of new therapeutic targets as well as biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and response to treatment in BD. In this review, we discuss genetic, epigenetic, molecular, physiological and neuroimaging findings associated with the neurobiology of BD. Despite the advances in the pathophysiological knowledge of BD, the diagnosis and management of the disease are still essentially clinical. Given the complexity of the brain and the close relationship between environmental exposure and brain function, initiatives that incorporate genetic, epigenetic, molecular, physiological, clinical, environmental data, and brain imaging are necessary to produce information that can be translated into prevention and better outcomes for patients with BD.