Immune Cell ‘Gamma Interferons’ Might Play a Vital Role in Preventing Depression in Healthy People, Study Suggests

Jan, 2021 - By SMI

According to a new research study initiated by the researchers of Yale University have suggested that an inflammatory autoimmune response within the central nervous system has been found in the spinal fluid of healthy people, which is similar to the individuals with neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Moreover, researchers also suggested that these immune cells may not only protect against microbial invaders, but has the potential to protect mental health. The research findings suggests that a type of immune cell gamma interferons, which induces and control various immune system responses, might play an key role in the prevention of depression in healthy people.

David Hafler senior author of the study stated, “We were surprised that normal spinal fluid would be so interesting. In essence, the immune system in the brains of all people is poised to make an inflammatory immune system response and may have another function than defending against pathogens. These T cells serve another purpose and we speculate that they may help preserve our mental health”.

According to the outcomes of the previous researches, it was revealed that by blocking gamma interferons and the T cells they help produced depression-like symptoms in mice. Researchers suggested that depression is a common side effect in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with a different type of interferon.

Furthermore, in this study by utilizing a powerful new technology that allows a thorough examination of individual cells, researchers found that although the characteristics of T cells in the spinal fluid of healthy individuals exhibited resemblances with those of MS patients, however they lack the capability to replicate and fails to create inflammatory response that is commonly seen in individuals with autoimmune diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis.