Beta‐arrestin1 and testosterone levels in women with depression during premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Abstract

OBJECTIVEWomen with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), have been suggested to have greater risk for future depression during pregnancy, post‐partum period and perimenopause. Currently no physical or laboratory test can diagnose PMDD. Reduction in beta‐arrestin1 (β‐AR1) protein and increased levels of testosterone are evident during depression. This study examined the levels of β‐AR‐1 protein in peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes (PBMC) and plasma testosterone in women with PMDD as diagnosed by objective assessment from questionnaires, which may aid in the diagnosis and treatment for PMDD.DESIGN METHODSStudy participants (n=25) were non‐pregnant women between 18–42 years of age with the symptoms of PMS/PMDD, but not taking any antidepressants/therapy and at the luteal phase of menstruation. The protein levels of beta‐arrestin1 in the PBMC were determined by ELISA and the testosterone levels in plasma were measured by radioimmuno assay. The participants were evaluated with Neuropsychiatric Interview (DSMIV‐TR). The severity of depression were determined by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores (HRSD).RESULTSThe magnitude of the different parameters for Axis 1 mental disorders and the plasma testosterone levels were significantly higher and beta arrestin1 protein levels in mononuclear leukocytes were significantly lower in women with depression (PMDD) as compared to PMS women.CONCLUSIONThese findings support that reduction in beta‐arrestin1 protein and associated increased levels of testosterone are implicated in the pathophysiology of depression in women with PMDD.Support or Funding InformationClinical Research Education and Career Development in Minority R25RR17577 (NCRR/NIMHD) and U54 MD007593 (NIMHD) and U54 RR026140 (NCRR) at NIH