Conclusion
Our results provide insight into the molecular alterations that could explain the inflammation-OCD association.
Methods
This case-control study included 103 participants (51 cases with OCD and 52 healthy controls). All participants were evaluated with the Yale Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, Hamilton Depression Scale, and Hewitt Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale. RNA and proteins were extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting. Levels of Serum IL-1beta and IL-18 cytokine were determined by ELISA.
Results
NEK7 and CASP1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in OCD patients, compared to controls. Pro-caspase-1 protein levels were elevated, as well. Regression analysis showed that NEK7 mRNA and pro-caspase-1 protein levels can differentiate OCD and healthy control groups.