Altered HDAC5 and CREB mRNA expressions in the peripheral leukocytes of major depression

Background: Gene expressions of the peripheral leukocytes in depressive patients might reflect the systemic dysfunction of major depression. We determined mRNA expression levels of Historic deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) gene and cyclic AMP response element-binding protein 1 (CREB) gene in the leukocyte of depressive patients. HDAC5 and CREB are reported to be important targets of antidepressants, the latter being located in the downstream of the former in lymphocyte calcium signaling. Methods: 25 patients with major depression and 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included in this study. Twenty patients were able to be followed up until the 8 week-treatment. The mRNA levels were determined by a quantitative RT-PCR method. Result: Levels of HDAC5 and CREB mW4A were significantly higher in drug-free depressive patients than those of controls and the higher mRNA levels decreased to control levels after 8-week paroxetine treatment. There were positive correlation between levels of HDAC5 and CREB. Conclusion: Our results suggest the alteration of HDAC5 and CREB gene expression in the systemic pathophysiology of major depression. (c) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.