Cytokines as Predictors of Response to Electroconvulsive Therapy: an Update

AbstractPurpose of ReviewElectroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective form of treatment for several psychiatric disorders. Cytokines are key mediators of immune-inflammatory responses, and are significantly associated with these disorders. Prior reviews have identified possible associations between cytokines and response to ECT, but have also highlighted the limitations of earlier research. This paper aims to review recent research in this field.Recent FindingsNineteen studies published between 2018 and 2023 were reviewed. These studies showed inconsistent associations between baseline interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and response to ECT in depression, significant associations between interleukin-8 (IL-8) and response in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), possible links between other chemokines and response to ECT in TRD, and a tentative link between expression of IL-1 family cytokines and response in schizophrenia.SummaryCytokines may be useful in predicting response to ECT, particularly in TRD. Combining cytokine estimations with assessments of clinical and genetic variables may improve response prediction and lead to a more personalized approach to ECT.
Source: Current Behavioral Neuroscience Reports - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research