Serum interferon-gamma level is associated with drug-naïve major depressive disorder

Objectives: Major depressive disorder is a leading heterogeneous psychiatric illness manifested by persistent low mood, a feeling of sadness, and diminished interest in daily activities. Many biological, genetic, and social factors are thought to be linked with depression. But any suitable early risk assessment markers are absent for this illness. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the serum levels of IFN-γ in major depressive disorder patients to further investigate the association between serum levels of this cytokine and major depression. Methods: This prospective case-control study enrolled 120 major depressive disorder patients and 100 healthy controls matched by age, sex, and body mass index. A qualified psychiatrist diagnosed the major depressive disorder patients and evaluated healthy controls according to the Diagnostic and…