Current Issues in Molecular Biology

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Dear Colleagues，

This Special Issue, “Molecules at Play in Neurological Diseases 2024”, presents a meticulous examination of the molecular mechanisms underpinning diverse neurological disorders. This compilation of articles showcases pioneering research elucidating the roles of specific molecules in the etiology and progression of these conditions.

Contributions to this Special Issue span a spectrum of topics, encompassing the influence of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and neurotrophic factors on cerebral function and dysfunction. Researchers delve into the intricate interplay of genetic and epigenetic elements in neurological disorders, illuminating potential therapeutic targets.

Furthermore, this Special Issue underscores the latest advancements in neuroimaging modalities and their utility in diagnosing and monitoring neurological diseases. Insights into the evolution of innovative therapeutic approaches, such as gene therapy and pharmacological interventions, are also detailed.

In summary, "Molecules at Play in Neurological Diseases 2024" offers a comprehensive portrayal of the molecular landscape of neurological disorders. This body of work provides invaluable insights that may pave the way for the development of more efficacious treatments in the future.

Dr. Dumitru Iacobas
Guest Editor

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Keywords

neurological diseases
neurotransmitters
neuropeptides
neurotrophic factors
genetic and epigenetic elements

Published Papers (1 paper)

Research

18 pages, 310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Serum Levels of Zinc, Albumin, Interleukin-6 and CRP in Patients with Unipolar and Bipolar Depression: Cross Sectional Study

by Tihana Bagarić, Alma Mihaljević-Peleš, Milena Skočić Hanžek, Maja Živković, Ana Kozmar and Dunja Rogić

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(5), 4533-4550; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46050275 - 9 May 2024

Viewed by 215

Abstract

Unipolar (UD) and bipolar depression (BDD) show a high degree of similarity in clinical presentations, which complicates the differential diagnosis of these disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin (Alb), and zinc (Zn) in patients with UD, BDD, and healthy controls (HC). A total of 211 samples were collected: 131 patient samples (65 UD and 68 BDD) and 80 HC. The Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), along with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17), were administered to patient groups to evaluate symptoms. A cross-sectional study was performed to analyse the serum levels of IL-6, CRP, albumin, and zinc. The concentration of CRP was determined using the immunoturbidimetry method, zinc using the colorimetric method, and albumin using the colorimetric method with bromocresol green on the Alinity c device. IL-6 cytokine concentration in serum samples was ascertained using a commercial enzyme immunoassay, ELISA. We found no significant differences in serum concentrations of zinc, albumin, CRP, and IL-6 between the groups of patients with unipolar and bipolar depression. There was a significant statistical difference (p < 0.001) between serum levels of all investigated parameters in both groups of depressed patients in comparison with HC. Furthermore, correlations with specific items on HAMD-17; (namely, hypochondrias, work and activities, somatic symptoms-general, and weight loss) and on MADRS (concentration difficulties, lassitude) were observed in both patient groups. These findings confirm the presence of low-grade inflammation in depression, thus adding better insight into the inflammation hypothesis directed to explain the aetiology of depressive disorders. Our results do not indicate potential biomarkers for distinguishing between unipolar and bipolar depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecules at Play in Neurological Diseases 2024)

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