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The folic acid endophenotype and depression in an elderly population

Lookup NU author(s): Laura Bone

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Abstract

Objectives: Folate status and/or genes have been linked to depression in a number of studies. This may be via a direct action (or actions) on neuronal membranes or indirect effects through the metabolism of methyl groups involved in neurotransmitter synthesis. This study examines folate and related thiol metabolism that might underpin either phenomenon. Design: Cohort study describing the relationship between several genetic and nutritional aspects of folic acid homeostasis and depression assessed by the HADS psychometric index in an elderly cohort. Setting: New South Wales (Australia) retirement village. Participants: 118 elderly participants (age 65-90 years). Results: Stepwise multiple regression was used to determine the best statistical model to predict depression; C677T-MTHFR (p=0.0103) was found to be positively associated with depression, while the thiol dipeptide Cys-Gly was negatively associated (p=0.0403). The statistical models used accounted for the major folate related indices (genetic and biochemical) that are most often evaluated in the context of health and disease. When only genetic data were examined for interactions, C677T-MTHFR was found to be negatively associated with the HADS Depression Index Score (p=0.0191). Conclusion: The potential influence of Cys-Gly on this phenotype is novel, and of considerable interest given that it has been linked to altered spontaneous activity and sedation in an animal model. Cys-Gly is a recognised ligand at the N-methyl-D-aspartatic acid (NMDA) subclass of glutamate receptor, a system associated with depression. In addition, the C677T-MTHFR association adds further support to existing findings underscoring the potential role of folate in depression.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Naumovski N, Veysey M, Ng X, Boyd L, Dufficy L, Blades B, Travers C, Lewis P, Sturm J, Townley-Jones M, Yates Z, Roach P, Lucock M

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging

Year: 2010

Volume: 14

Issue: 10

Pages: 829-833

Print publication date: 01/12/2010

ISSN (print): 1279-7707

ISSN (electronic): 1760-4788

Publisher: Editions SERDI

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12603-010-0135-5

DOI: 10.1007/s12603-010-0135-5

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