Caspases and brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels and their Correlations with Psychiatric Symptoms in post-COVID-19

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought significant challenges to global health, not only due to respiratory symptoms but also due to its impact on psychiatric disorders. Understanding the biological mechanisms underlying psychiatric manifestations in individuals with COVID-19 is crucial. This study aimed to investigate potential alterations in caspase 3 and 8 levels, as well as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, in individuals with COVID-19. The association of these markers with mental health was also assessed. A cross-sectional study was conducted, including individuals with COVID-19 and those without the disease. The stress levels were higher in individuals with COVID-19. Caspase 3 and 8 and BDNF levels were increased in individuals with COVID-19 compared to individuals without COVID-19. No significant differences were found in caspase 3 and 8 and BDNF levels between moderate/severe and asymptomatic/mild symptoms of COVID-19. The results indicate that no significant differences were observed between the diagnosis of anxiety disorders and the levels of markers. However, higher caspase 3 levels in individuals without anxiety and COVID-19 were found. No significant associations between the diagnosis of major depressive disorder or psychiatric symptoms and caspase 3, caspase 8, and BDNF levels were found. The results indicate that, although caspase 3, caspase 8, and BDNF levels are increased in individuals with COVID-19, these elevations are not associated with the severity of COVID-19 symptoms or psychiatric conditions and symptoms in post-COVID-19. These findings suggest that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may influence cellular activity and neurotrophic markers, but that other factors likely contribute to psychiatric disorders.

Keywords: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor; COVID-19; Caspase-3; Caspase-8; Major depressive disorder; Psychiatric disorders.