Serum Thrombospondin-1 and Magnesium Levels in Relation to Depression Severity in Male Patients TSP-1 and Magnesium in Depression

Abstract

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent mental disorder, affecting both the neurological and metabolic systems. The identification of reliable biomarkers might provide better insight into the pathophysiology of the disease and could help assess its severity. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), a synaptic modulator, and magnesium, as an essential component in neurotransmission, have been implicated in depressive disorders.
Aims: This research aimed to assess serum TSP-1 and magnesium levels in male depressed patients and investigate their relationship to the severity of depression.
Methodology: This case-control study included 130 male participants. Out of the population, the 90 patients with depression were divided into three groups: mild, moderate, and severe based on clinical examination. 40 healthy controls were also included. Serum TSP-1 levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and magnesium levels were measured by spectrophotometry.
Results: Magnesium levels significantly decreased (p < 0.001), whereas serum TSP-1 levels progressively increased with depression severity. Magnesium revealed an inverse relationship with depression severity, while TSP-1 showed a positive association. No significant correlation was observed between TSP-1 and magnesium levels in patients with MDD. BMI was positively associated with TSP-1, whereas no significant association was shown between BMI and magnesium. Conclusions: Magnesium and TSP-1 are significantly associated with the severity of depression and may serve as complementary biomarkers that reflect the neurological and metabolic aspects of the disorder.