REVIEW article

Front. Cell. Neurosci., 23 April 2025

Sec. Cellular Neuropathology

Volume 19 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2025.1538026

Neuroinflammation and stress-induced pathophysiology in major depressive disorder: mechanisms and therapeutic implications

  • KZ

    Kunying Zhao 1,2

  • YZ

    Yuxiao Zhang 1,2

  • SY

    Shuda Yang 1,2

  • LX

    Lirong Xiang 1,2

  • SW

    Shangpeng Wu 1,2

  • JD

    Junfang Dong 1,2

  • HL

    Huan Li 1,2

  • HY

    Haofei Yu 1,2*

  • WH

    Weiyan Hu 1,2*

  • 1. School of Pharmaceutical Science & Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China

  • 2. College of Modern Biomedical Industry, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health conditions, characterized by pervasive and persistent low mood, low self-esteem, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that are typically enjoyable. Despite decades of research into the etiology and pathophysiological mechanisms of depression, the therapeutic outcomes for many individuals remain less than expected. A promising new area of research focuses on stress-induced neuroinflammatory processes, such as the excessive activation and crosstalk of microglia and astrocytes in the central nervous system under stress, as well as elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are closely linked to the onset and progression of depression. This review summarizes the mechanisms through which neuroinflammation induces or promotes the development of depression, and also highlights the effective roles of small molecules with anti-inflammatory activity in the treatment of MDD. Understanding the specific mechanisms through which stress-induced neuroinflammation further impacts depression, and using technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing to elucidate the specific subtypes and interactions of microglia and astrocytes in depression, is of great importance for developing more effective therapeutic strategies for MDD.

1 Introduction

Depression is the most common neuropsychiatric disorder and a leading cause of disability (; Zeng et al., 2024). According to the World Health Organization, about 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and among them about 1 million people commit suicide each year (). The major clinical symptoms of depression include persistent feelings of sadness, anhedonia, worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt, difficulty with thinking and decision-making, suicidal ideation, and changes in weight, appetite, and sleep (Otte et al., 2016; Nestler et al., 2002). At present, the pathogenic factors of depression include environmental factors, biological factors, psychological factors, genetic factors, etc., ().

Currently, there are several main treatments for depression, such as (1) antidepressants, (2) evidence-based psychotherapy, (3) somatic non-drug therapies (Marwaha et al., 2023). Antidepressants are mainly classified according to their mechanism of action, and the more common types are listed below: (1) Tricyclic drugs (TCAs): Imipramine, Amitriptyline, Clomipramine, etc., (2) Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Tranylcypromine, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Rasagiline, etc., (3) Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Fluoxetine, paroxetine, Escitalopram, etc., (4) Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NERIs): Bupropion, Reboxetine, Atomoxetine, etc., (5) Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Venlafaxine, Desvenlafaxine, Duloxetine, etc., (6) Norepinephrine and specific serotonergic antidepressants (NaSSAs): Mirtazapine, etc., (Ménard et al., 2016; Li and Zhang, 2020). Most treatment for depression have not achieved satisfactory clinical results, in approximately 50% of previously untreated depression patients, monotherapy with antidepressants or evidence-based psychotherapy provides some relief, but does not reverse depressive symptoms and return patients to their pre-illness state (; Malhi and Mann, 2018). Clinical studies suggest that the poor efficacy of clinical antidepressants may be related to the complex pathogenesis of depression (Ye et al., 2023). At present, the known pathophysiological mechanisms of depression include the monoamine hypothesis, receptor hypothesis, neuroendocrine hypothesis, neuroplasticity hypothesis, inflammation hypothesis, excitatory amino acid hypothesis, and intestinal flora imbalance hypothesis (; Stetler and Miller, 2011). Among these hypotheses, the neuroinflammatory hypothesis has attracted increasing attention in recent years.

Immune activation and inflammatory responses are believed to be important causes of many brain diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Huntington’s disease (; Wu et al., 2021). Ongoing studies in neurophysiology and neuropsychiatry are increasingly focusing on the relationship between neuroinflammation and depression, suggesting that the immune system is involved in the pathophysiology of depression (Troubat et al., 2021). Microglia and astrocytes are important participants in the neuroimmune response. Microglia play a crucial role in brain development by regulating neurogenesis, synapse formation and elimination, and the assembly of neuronal circuits (Kreisel et al., 2014). Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system, are fundamental in regulating normal brain function and are involved in the pathologies of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. Reactive astrocytes are highly heterogeneous and play an important role in restoring homeostasis and limiting tissue damage in the central nervous system (Leng et al., 2018). However, in the presence of stress or endotoxin stimulation, overactivated microglia and astrocytes can release an excessive amount of inflammatory factors. These overproduced inflammatory factors can lead to neuronal damage and are considered to induce depression (Nettis and Pariante, 2020).

This paper summarizes the roles of different polarization phenotypes of microglia and astrocytes in stress-induced neuroinflammation and their potential mechanisms in depression. Additionally, it reviews recent research on the therapeutic potential of natural compounds with anti-inflammatory properties for treating depression. The importance of identifying specific subtypes of microglia and astrocytes, as well as effective genetic targets, for depression therapy is discussed. Furthermore, the paper explores the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in modulating these distinct phenotypes and genes in the treatment of depression.

2 Manuscript formatting

2.1 Neuroinflammation

The human immune system can be viewed as a multi-layered defense network that comprehensively protects the body from external threats and internal damage. It crucially prevents the invasion of foreign microorganisms, mitigates the pathogenicity of microorganisms within the body, inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells, and promotes the rejection of transplanted tissues (; ). Immune defense includes physical barriers such as the skin, various epithelia, and blood-brain barrier. The innate immune system, which relies on leukocytes, responds to infections or tissue damage through early inflammatory reactions. The adaptive immune system, which is composed of T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes, interacts with specific antigens and forms immunological memory (Zhou et al., 2024).

Inflammatory responses play a protective role in the body. Transient inflammation in the nervous system typically occurs in response to central nervous system (CNS) injury, infection, toxin exposure, or autoimmune reactions (Sarno et al., 2021; Table 1). This response is beneficial during tissue repair and development (). Neuroinflammation activates innate immune molecules and cellular pathways (Parsi et al., 2024). In particular, peripheral immune cells, including monocytes, granulocytes, and dendritic cells, migrate to the brain through the blood and lymphatic systems to survey for pathogens or damage and support neurological function. Animal studies have shown that endotoxin administration triggers perivascular macrophage-derived monocytes to initiate an adaptive neuroinflammatory response, involving prostaglandins and anti-inflammatory feedback mechanisms (Serna-Rodríguez et al., 2022; ). Furthermore, exogenous immune cells, such as lymphocytes, play a critical role in limiting damage spread, providing neuroprotection, and influencing cognitive function after brain injury (Wohleb et al., 2016).

TABLE 1

AbbreviationsFull name
5-HT5-hydroxytryptamine
AHRAryl hydrocarbon receptor
AKTProtein kinase B
ALKBH5Human Alk B homolog
AMPKAdenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase
APNAminopeptidase N
ATG3Autophagy-related protein 3
ATG5Autophagy-related protein 5
ATPAdenosine triphosphate
B2MBeta-2-microglobulin
BBBBlood-brain barrier
BDNFBrain derived neurotrophic factor
BMAL1Basic Helix-Loop-Helix ARNT Like 1
C1QComplement component C1q
C3Complement C3
CAMKIICalcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II
CCL2C-C motif chemokine ligand 2
CCL5C-C motif chemokine ligand 5
CD11BCD11 antigen-like-family-member B
CD16Low affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor III-A
CD206Mannose Recepto
CD32Low affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor II-b
CD86CD86 molecule
CGMPCyclic guanosine monophosphate
CLEC2DC-type lectin domain family 2 member D
CLIC6Chloride intracellular channel 6
CNSCentral nervous system
COX2Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 2
CRHCorticotropin releasing hormone
CRPC-reactive protein
CRSChronic restraint stress
CRY2Cryptochrome circadian regulator 2
CSDSChronic social defeat stress
CUMSChronic unpredictable mild stress
CX30Connexin 30
CX3CL1C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1
CX43Connexin 43
CXCL1C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1
CXCL10C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10
CYSLT1RCysteinyl leukotriene type 1 receptor
CYT-1Cytokinesis deficient 1
DAXXDeath Domain Associated Protein
EGR1Early growth responsive gene-1
EGR2Early growth responsive gene-2
EGR3Early growth responsive gene-3
EGR4Early growth responsive gene-4
ERKExtracellular regulated protein kinases
FOSFos proto-oncogene
FOS2FosB proto-oncogene
FOXO1Forkhead box O1
FOXO3ATranscription factor Forkhead box protein O3
FSTL1Follistatin Like 1
FTOFat mass and obesity-associated protein
GABRA2Gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor subunit alpha2
GAD67Glutamate decarboxylase 67
GLT-1Glucose transporter type 1
GLUN2BNMDA receptor 2B
GM-CSFGranulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor
GPX4Glutathione peroxidase 4
GSDMDGasdermin D
GSHGlutathione
HIPK2Homeodomain interacting protein kinase 2
HMGB1High mobility group box 1 protein
HO-1Heme oxygenase 1
IDOIndoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase
IGF-1Insulin-like growth factor 1
IKKA /BInhibitory kappa B kinase α/β
IL-1Interleukin-1
IL-10Interleukin-10
IL-13Interleukin-13
IL-18Interleukin-18
IL-1AInterleukin-1α
IL-1BInterleukin-1β
IL-4Interleukin-4
IL-6Interleukin-6
IFN-AInterferon-α
IFN-BInterferon-β
INOSInducible nitric oxide synthase
IRF3Interferon regulatory Factor 3
JAK1Janus Kinase 1
JNKC-JunN-terminal kinase
KCNE2potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily E regulatory subunit 2
KCNJ13Potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J member 13
LC3B-2Microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3
LPSLipopolysaccharide
LTPLong term potentiation
MAFGMAF BZIP transcription factor G
MAPKMitogen-activated protein kinase
MCOLINMucolipin
MDAMalondialdehyde
MDDMajor depressive disorder
METTL14Methyltransferase 14
METTL3Methyltransferase 3
MKP-1Mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1
MTNR1BMelatonin receptor 1B
MTROSMitochondrial reactive oxygen species
MYD88Myeloid differentiation primary response 88
NF-K BNuclear factor kappa-B
NLRC5NLR family CARD domain containing 5
NLRP3NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3
NMDAN-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor
NONitric oxide
NOS2Nitric oxide synthase 2
NR2CNuclear receptor subfamily 2 group C
NR4A2Nuclear receptor subfamily 4, group A, member 2
NRF2Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2
OGTO-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase
OPNOsteopontin
ORAI1Calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1
PDCD4Programmed cell death factor 4
PER2Period circadian regulator 2
PGC-1APeroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α
PI3KPhosphatidylinositol-3-kinase
PPARΓPeroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ
PPP1R1BProtein Phosphatase 1 Regulatory Inhibitor Subunit 1B
PRMT2Protein arginine methyltransferase 2
PRMT3Protein arginine methyltransferase 3
PRMT4Protein arginine methyltransferase 4
PRMT6Protein arginine methyltransferase 6
PSD-95Postsynaptic protein-95
RAGEThe receptor of advanced glycation endproducts
ROSReactive oxygen species
SIRT1Sirtuin 1
SLC7A11Solute carrier family7member 11
SOCEStore-operated calcium entry
SOCS3suppressor of cytokine signaling 3
STAT1Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1
STAT3Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3
STINGStimulator of interferon genes
TBK1TANK-binding kinase 1
TFEBTranscription factor EB
TGF-ATransforming growth factor-α
TGF-BTransforming growth factor-β
TLR4Toll-like receptor 4
TLR9Toll-like receptor 9
TNF-ATumor necrosis factor-α
TRAF6Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6
TREM1Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1
TREM2Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-2
TRKBTyrosine kinase receptor B
TRPML1Transient receptor potential mucolipin channel 1
VEGF-BVascular endothelial growth factor B

Abbreviations.

Chronic inflammatory responses may lead to excessive production of inflammatory factors and abnormal activation of immune cells, ultimately resulting in tissue damage. These inflammatory processes are mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines [e.g., interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)], chemokines [e.g., C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1)], secondary messengers [e.g., nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins], and reactive oxygen species (ROS) (). Studies have shown that under pathological conditions, the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) increases, allowing peripheral cytokines to stimulate the activation of microglia and astrocytes, thereby exacerbating the inflammatory response (). These pro-inflammatory factors, by reducing the activity of glutamine synthetase, lead to the accumulation of glutamate, which enhances the activation of excitatory neurons, thereby triggering excitotoxicity and cell apoptosis (). Meanwhile, inflammatory factors can also lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, cytochrome C release, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion, free radical generation, and oxidative damage (; ). Some therapeutic agents, such as interferon-α (IFN-α), are effective in alleviating somatic diseases; however, due to their pro-inflammatory effects, they often induce mild to moderate depressive symptoms by impairing the function of brain regions involved in emotional regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the amygdala (Vignau et al., 2005; Pinto and Andrade, 2016). Important emotional regulation areas in the brain, such as the PFC and amygdala, are directly affected by the overactivation of cytokine networks. Pro-inflammatory cytokines have been reported to reduce neurotrophic supply and down-regulate neurogenesis via the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling pathway, and to debilitate hippocampal cell proliferation via the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Moreover, they lead to damage to the body by increasing glutamate levels through N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDA) receptor activation, leading to excitotoxicity and reduced neurogenesis ().

In recent years, the role of inflammation in neurological disorders has attracted significant attention. Research has shown that the excessive activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, is closely associated with the pathogenesis of many central nervous system disorders, including depression (; Na et al., 2014). These inflammatory mediators contribute to the development of depressive symptoms by affecting brain tissue, modulating the monoaminergic system, and triggering neurotoxic processes (; Shi et al., 2023; Zhou et al., 2024). Animal models established through the in vivo injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or inflammatory factors also exhibit typical depressive symptoms, such as a decrease in aggression and curiosity (Zhang et al., 2023; Zhou et al., 2024). Inhibition of the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, exerts antidepressant effects (Şahin et al., 2015; Zhang et al., 2017; ). These findings suggest that the activation of microglia is closely associated with depression, and inhibiting neuroinflammation may provide a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of depression.

2.1.1 Microglia

Microglia are the primary immune cells in the brain and serve as the first line of defense. In recent years, they have garnered significant attention due to their roles in immune responses and neuroinflammation. They play a crucial role in brain development by regulating neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, synapse elimination, and the formation of neuronal circuits. Furthermore, microglia possess the ability to recognize pathogens, perform phagocytosis, present antigens, and remodel synapses ().

Under normal conditions, resting microglia continuously monitor the surrounding environment. Upon injury or changes in the external environment, they become activated and undergo morphological changes. Microglial cells transform from a branched form to an amoeboid shape, with cell body swelling, shortened processes, increased phagocytic activity, and elevated cytokine production. This process is referred to as microglial activation (). Microglial activation is triggered by the recognition of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). PAMPs and DAMPs interact with microglial receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), thereby initiating the synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators and promoting the transmission of inflammatory signals (Liu et al., 2023). Microglial activation can occur through two main pathways: the classical M1 activation and the selective M2 activation (). Various factors, such as cellular aging, endotoxins, inflammatory cytokines, and ROS, can drive microglia to polarize toward the M1 phenotype. M1 microglia produce pro-inflammatory factors, including IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and superoxide radicals, which help clear infections and repair tissues (Takahashi et al., 2024). In contrast, M2 activation is induced by cytokines such as interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), accompanied by the release of anti-inflammatory factors like Interleukin-10 (IL-10), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF 1), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), which promote tissue healing, regeneration, and angiogenesis, and also repair neuronal damage (; Parkhurst et al., 2013; Yi et al., 2020). It promotes healing, tissue regeneration, and angiogenesis, and can inhibit or promote the repair of neuronal injury (Wang et al., 2022; Figure 1).

FIGURE 1

However, recent research has revealed that categorizing microglia solely into M1 and M2 phenotypes is an oversimplification. Through high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing, researchers have analyzed the RNA expression patterns of over 76,000 microglial cells from mice at different developmental stages, during aging, and in response to brain injury. The study identified at least nine distinct microglial states, which vary according to development, aging, and injury (). Refining the classification of microglia will help to better understand the functions, signaling mechanisms, and interactions of these subtypes with other brain cells. This, in turn, could facilitate the identification of specific microglial biomarkers for assessing human health and disease states.

Activated microglia show different responses to external stimuli, which is a double-edged sword: Acutely activated microglia usually promote tissue repair by removing invading pathogens and cell debris; Sustained microglial activation causes chronic neuroinflammation, which worsens the damage and promotes disease progression. With the deepening of the research on the pathogenesis of depression, the role of microglia in the pathogenesis of depression has also been proved in large numbers, so depression is also considered to be a microglia-related disease (microgliosis) (Yirmiya et al., 2015; Wang et al., 2022; ). Here, we summarize recent research over the past 3 years on the mechanisms through which the modulation of microglial phenotype exerts anti-inflammatory and antidepressant effects. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for identifying new directions in the treatment and drug development for depression (Table 2).

TABLE 2

Types of stressExperimental subjectStress-induced changes in microgliaConclusions/observationsReferences
CRSC57BL/6 mice↓STING, TBK1, IRF3, BDNF, Arg-1, ↑TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL10, CCL2, Iba1, iNOSActivation of the STING/TBK1/IRF3 pathway in microglia promotes the production of IFN-β in mice under chronic restraint stress, thereby alleviating neuroinflammation and improving depressive-like behaviors, while enhancing microglial phagocytic activity
CSDS, LPSC57BL/6 mice, BV2 cell↓Nrf2, TREM2, IL-4, IL-10, Arg-1, ↑Iba1Activation of Nrf2 can initiate the transcription of TREM2, thereby enhancing the anti-inflammatory microglial phenotype
LPSC57BL/6 mice↓Fos, FosB, Nr4a1, Nr4a2, Nr4a3, Egr1, Egr2, Egr3, Egr4, ↑Iba1Nr4a2 may regulate LPS-induced depressive-like behaviors by reducing neuroinflammation, as well as improving LPS-induced microglial activation and the decreased neuronal activity of CamkII
LPSC57BL/6 mice↑TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-6, Iba1, IL-1β, P- NF-κB/NF-κB, P-STAT1/STAT1, P-IKKα/β/IKKα/βAPN deficiency can improve LPS-induced neuroinflammation and depressive-like behaviors by inhibiting the effect of NF-κB on BDNF/TRKB signalingLi J. M. et al., 2022
LPSC57BL/6 mice, BV2 cell↓BDNF, TREM1, Copine6, Cyt-1, Per2, Cry2, Clock, ↑TNF-α, IL-6, CRP, CRH, TREM2, Bmal1LPS induces microglial activation both in vivo and in vitro, leading to an imbalance in Bmal1 expression, which disrupts its regulation of circadian rhythm functions and impairs synaptic plasticityXu D. D. et al., 2024
CUMSSD rat↓ERK, p38, ↑MKP-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, Iba1, -JNKInhibition of MKP-1 can improve ERK/p38 MAPK/JNK signaling, reversing CUMS-induced microglial activation and depressive-like behaviors in rats
CSDS, LPSC57BL/6 mice, BV2 cell, HMC3 cell↓SOCS3, P62, ↑HMGB1, RAGE, TLR4, PI3K p85, P-Akt/Akt, P-STAT3/STAT3, P-P65/P65, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-a, Iba1, Atg3, Atg5, Beclin-1, LC3B-IIThe microglial HMGB1/STAT3/p65 axis directly mediates microglial activation and autophagy in depression. Blockade of HMGB1 signaling is beneficial in improving neuroinflammation and depressive-like behaviorsXu K. et al., 2024
LPSBV2 cell, Primary microglia↓PPARγ, IL-10, ↑Pdcd4, Iba1, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, CCL2, B2mMicroglial Pdcd4 promotes LPS-induced neuroinflammation and depressive-like behaviors by inhibiting Daxx-mediated PPARγ nuclear translocation, thereby suppressing the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10Li et al., 2024
LPSC57BL/6 mice, BV2 cell↓PRMT6, GPX4, GSH, ALKBH5, SLC7A11, β-catenin, ↑PRMT2, PRMT3, PRMT4, Fe2+, ROS, 4-HNE, MDA, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CD86, Iba1, iNOSALKBH5 alleviates LPS-induced ferroptosis and M1 microglial polarization by targeting the β-catenin-GPX4 axis to induce PRMT2 deficiency, ultimately exerting an antidepressant effectMao et al., 2024
LPSC57BL/6 mice, BV2 cell↓IL-4, Arg1, ↑MCPIP1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CD16, CD32, TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6, NF-κB, Iba1, iNOS, -IL-10MCPIP1 promotes M2 polarization of microglial cells and alleviates LPS-induced depressive-like behaviors by inhibiting the TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB signaling pathwayZhou et al., 2024
LPS, CUMSC57BL/6 mice, Nlrc5/mice↑TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, nuclear P65, Cleave Caspase1, P-IKK-α/β/IKK-α/β, Iba1NLRC5 promotes the activation of classical NF-κB signaling induced by LPS by forming a complex with IKKα/β and enhancing their phosphorylation. Nlrc5 deficiency inhibits microglial activation and alleviates depressive-like behaviors in LPS and CUMS-induced mouse models of depressionSun et al., 2023
CUMSFSTL1± mice↑Iba1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, TLR4, MyD88, p-NF-κBPartial knockdown of FSTL1 can rescue CUMS-induced microglial activation, depressive-like symptoms, and synaptic dysfunction through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathwayXiao et al., 2022
LPSC57BL/6 mice↑Iba1, OPN, CD11b, TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOSBlocking the expression of OPN in hippocampal microglia/macrophages of LPS-induced mice can alleviate depressive-like behaviorsZhang et al., 2023
CUMSHIPK2–/– mice↑TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, Iba1, p-STAT3, p-JAK1, HIPK2, Iba1, CD11bCUMS promotes the binding and phosphorylation of HIPK2 with STAT3, thereby accelerating the M1 polarization of microglial cells, exacerbating depressive neuroinflammation, and leading to abnormal behaviors
LPSC57BL/6 mice↓PI3K, Akt, BDNF, ↑TREM-1, Iba1Inhibition of TREM-1 can alleviate LPS-induced depressive-like behaviors. The PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may be partially involved in the protective effects of TREM-1 inhibition against LPS-induced depressive-like behaviors
LPSC57BL/6 mice,
FOXO3afl/fl mice
↓PPARγ, 5-HT, Arg1, CD206, ↑FOXO3a, IL-1β, Iba1, IL-6, iNOS, COX-2, NF-κBInhibition of FOXO3a promotes the transformation of microglial cells from the M1 to the M2 phenotype and suppresses neuroinflammation in the hippocampus, thereby alleviating LPS-induced depressive-like behaviors in miceWang R. et al., 2024
CUMS/CORTC57BL/6 mice↑IL-1β, Pro-IL-1β, Iba1, CD86, TLR9, P65, P-P65, Clec2d, P-IkBα, NLRP3, ASC, Pro-caspase-1, Cleaved caspase-1Chronic stress leads to the activation of extracellular chromatin, which promotes ROS production in microglial cells. This triggers the NF-κB signaling pathway and activates the NLRP3 inflammasome through Clec2d and TLR9 in the mPFCWu et al., 2022

Microglia regulate depression-related pathways.

(↓, decrease; ↑, increase; -, no change).

2.1.2 Astrocytes

Traditionally, astrocytes have been regarded as supportive cells for neurons, playing a critical role in maintaining brain homeostasis and the normal function of neurons. As the largest cell type in the CNS, astrocytes provide energy, recycle neurotransmitters, supply neurotrophic factors, and regulate synaptic formation and elimination. They also maintain the BBB and participate in immune signaling (). When the CNS undergoes damage, such as trauma, neurodegenerative diseases, or infections, astrocytes exhibit rapid changes in gene expression, morphology, and function, a response known as astrocyte reactivity (Stoklund Dittlau and Freude, 2024). Research indicates that reactive astrocytes may have detrimental effects, such as exacerbating neuroinflammation, inhibiting synaptic sprouting, or axonal growth. However, some studies suggest that A1 and A2 reactive astrocytes have beneficial roles, including anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection, and BBB repair (Rupareliya et al., 2023). Compared to normal astrocytes, A1 astrocytes lose many critical functions, particularly the maintenance of synaptic activity. Furthermore, A1 astrocytes significantly upregulate substances that are harmful to synapses, such as complement cascade factors, IL-1β, TNF-α, and NO (). In contrast, A2 astrocytes can upregulate neurotrophic factors or anti-inflammatory genes, promoting neuronal survival and growth, and playing an active role in neurorepair. Astrocytes are also responsible for the uptake and metabolism of over 90% of glutamate in the brain (Mahmoud et al., 2019). When astrocytes are deficient, excessive accumulation of glutamate in the synaptic cleft may lead to excitotoxicity and an imbalance in neuronal activity (Wang et al., 2017; Figure 1).

Recent studies, however, have shown that A1 and A2 types only represent two of the potential astrocyte transcriptomes when classifying astrocytes using multi-dimensional data and co-clustering methods. Moreover, research has found that astrocytes in a healthy brain are highly diverse and perform specific roles in different CNS circuits. Reactive astrocytes are equally heterogeneous, with RNA sequencing and microarray analysis data indicating that reactive astrocytes in various disease models exhibit distinct molecular characteristics ().

Current research has confirmed that astrocytes are closely involved in the pathophysiology of depression. In rodent models, chronic mild stress induces overexpression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Increased numbers of astrocytes have also been found in the hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of patients with major depressive disorder (Wen et al., 2024; Yuan et al., 2024). Additionally, elevated levels of glutamate have been observed in the brains and cerebrospinal fluid of depression patients, and chronic stress appears to induce brain structural atrophy by disrupting the GFAP astrocytic network (Rajkowska and Stockmeier, 2013). We summarize researches conducted over the past 3 years on the mechanisms through which astrocytes mediate antidepressant effects (Table 3). These mechanistic insights may serve as potential targets for the prevention and treatment of depression (Wang J. Y. et al., 2024).

TABLE 3

Types of stressExperimental subjectStress-induced changes in astrocyteConclusions/observationsReferences
LPSC57BL/6 mice, Orai1 KO mice↓Orai1, SOCEOrai1 deficiency attenuates the increase in hippocampal inflammatory markers induced by LPS in mice, as well as the inflammation-induced Ca2+ signaling in astrocytes and inhibitory neurotransmission in the hippocampusNovakovic et al., 2023
CSDSC57BL/6J mice, OGT-cKO mice↑OGT, O-GlcNAcOGT protect mPFC pyramidal neurons from glutamate-transmission deficits under social stress through the O-GlcNAcylation of GLT-1
CUMSC57BL/6 J mice, CysLT1R ACKO mice↑CysLT1RCysLT1R knockout or knockdown in DG astrocytes improved CUMS-induced depression-like behavior in mice and restored LTP, synapse loss, PSD-95 and GluN2B levels, as well as reduced glutamate increase caused by NF-κB mediated GLT-1 reduction.Liu X. et al., 2022
CSDS, LPSC57BL/6J mice, ALKBH5 KO mice↓METTL3, ↑ALKBH5, METTL14, FTOUnder chronic stress, astrocytic ALKBH5 preserves neuronal morphology, calcium activity, and glutamatergic transmission through m6A modification of GLT-1
Mtnr1b cKOGfapMtnr1b cKOGfap mice↓Kcnj13, Kcne2, Gabra2, Ppp1r1b, Clic6, GAD67The astrocyte-specific knockout in Mtnr1b cKOGfap mice results in anxiety-like behavior, which is caused by down-regulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid-ergic (GABAergic) synaptic function.Meng et al., 2023
CUMS, SIRT6 AKOSIRT6 AKO mice↓SIRT6, ↑CgmpThe deletion of SIRT6 in astrocytes alters purine metabolism homeostasis in the medial prefrontal cortex of mice, leading to the improvement of depressive-like behaviors in these animals
CUMS, LPSC57BL/6 mice↑IL-1β, TNF-α, MAFG, GFAP, ROS, IL-6, C3, MDAMAFG knockdown attenuated CUMS-stimulated depression-like behaviors in mice by astrocyte-mediated neuroinflammation via restoration of HMOX1Ye et al., 2024
LPSAstyrocytic-NR2C KO mice↑GFAP, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4, IL-10, glutamate, P-JNK/JNK, P-P65/P65Astrocytic NR2C, in conjunction with the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, synchronously induces depression and further promotes synaptic dysfunction driven by neuroinflammation
CSDSC57BL/6J mice, TRPML1 AcKO mice↓MCOLIN, TRPML1, ↑SGALS3The astrocytic TFEB-TRPML1 axis regulates depressive-like behaviors through ATP release mediated by lysosomal exocytosisMo et al., 2024
CUMS, CSDSKir6.1 CKO mice↓Kir6.1, GFAP, ↑NLRP3, Caspase1, GSDMD-N, IL-1β, IL-18The deletion of Kir6.1 in astrocytes enhances astrocytic pyroptosis and exacerbates depression through the mtROS-NLRP3-GSDMD signaling pathwayLi F. et al., 2022
MSC57BL/6 mice, CX43 knockdown mice↓CX43, GFAP, CX30, GLT-1Upregulation of CX43 can alleviate depressive-like behaviors, cognitive deficits, and astrocyte dysfunction induced by multiple sclerosis in miceWu et al., 2023

Astrocytes regulate depression-related pathways.

(↓, decrease; ↑, increase; -, no change).

2.1.3 Crosstalk between microglia and astrocytes in neuroinflammation

Microglia and astrocytes play dual roles in brain diseases. They not only enhance immune responses and promote neurodegeneration, but also modulate the inflammatory responses in the central nervous system (). Furthermore, the interaction between astrocytes and microglia plays a critical role in neuroinflammatory responses (Olude et al., 2022).

These two types of glial cells regulate inflammation in the central nervous system through the secretion of cytokines and inflammatory mediators (). For example, LPS-activated microglia can induce a neurotoxic phenotype in astrocytes by secreting Interleukin-1α (IL-1α), TNF-α, and complement component C1q, triggering transcriptional responses in astrocytes that lead to the production of neurotoxic factors while inhibiting phagocytic function and the expression of neurotrophic factors (Li S. et al., 2022). Moreover, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in microglia regulates the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGF-B) and Transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α), further promoting the expression of pro-inflammatory genes in astrocytes, such as CCL2, IL-1β, and nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) (). The production of TNF-α enhances the release of glutamate from astrocytes, thereby increasing neuronal excitotoxicity. Studies have also shown that NF-κB signaling in microglia activates the NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, which in turn triggers A1-type astrocytes through caspase-1 activation. A1 astrocytes secrete factors such as CCL2, C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CX3CL1), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and interleukin-1 (IL-1), which in turn activate pro-inflammatory microglia (Linnerbauer et al., 2020; ). Furthermore, the deficiency of sigma-1 receptors in astrocytes leads to the activation of the NF-κB pathway, thereby amplifying the interaction between reactive astrocytes and activated microglia, exacerbating neuroinflammation and triggering stress-induced neuronal apoptosis, ultimately resulting in depressive-like behavior in mice (Figure 2).

FIGURE 2

2.2 Stress induces neuroinflammation in depression

Stress is an external stimulus that affects both the body and mind, often manifesting as emotional responses. Research suggests that the onset of depression may be related to an individual’s ability to cope with stress (Yaribeygi et al., 2017). Studies have shown that individuals who experience significant stressful events (such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, relocation, or social failure) are at a 5–6-fold increased risk of depression within 6 months (). Extensive research has demonstrated a significant causal relationship between stressful life events and the occurrence of major depressive episodes (). Acute stressors are a natural physiological response to sudden events, whereas prolonged exposure to stress may lead to neuroendocrine dysfunction and emotional blunting, which can trigger mental health issues such as anxiety and depression (Lee et al., 2021).

Stress exposure experiments in rodents have shown that stress can induce the excessive secretion of cytokines (Munhoz et al., 2008). Studies have found that stress leads to elevated levels of the cytokine IL-6 in the plasma of rodents (Xu et al., 2020; Xu K. et al., 2024). Furthermore, acute restraint stress has been shown to increase the expression of IL-1β mRNA in the hypothalamus of rats (Liu H. et al., 2022; Liu et al., 2021). These findings suggest that psychosocial stressors may play an important role in the pathophysiology of stress-related disorders, such as depression, by regulating the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, research has revealed that stress mediators can cross the BBB and influence the immune system. Microglial cells are considered the primary source of these cytokines, and chronic stress can alter their morphology (Yao et al., 2022). In summary, the close relationship between microglial activation and neuroinflammation has been well-established. Therefore, psychological stress may induce neuroinflammation, ultimately leading to the development of depressive-like behavior.

2.3 Anti-inflammatory treatment can alleviate depression

Based on the impact of various neuroinflammatory lesions on the pathogenesis of depression, exploring the mechanisms and treatment methods of depression from an anti-inflammatory perspective has become a research focus in recent years (Patil et al., 2023). It is noteworthy that some of the aforementioned marketed antidepressants may alleviate depression to some extent through anti-inflammatory effects (). The serotonin reuptake inhibitor vortioxetine can inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway through its immunomodulatory effects, thus exerting antidepressant and cognitive improvement effects (). Additionally, a study showed that administering 10 mg/kg of ketamine to depressed model animals significantly reduced the IL-1β levels in their hippocampus (Wang et al., 2015). This suggests that anti-inflammatory treatment for depression may be an effective strategy. Common anti-inflammatory medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have shown in a meta-analysis that these drugs can effectively treat depression in animal models when used alone or in combination with antidepressants (). However, some studies indicate that these medications may affect the efficacy of antidepressants. These mixed results may be attributed to various experimental design factors. For instance, some studies involve middle-aged patients, while others primarily focus on younger individuals. The use of selective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors NSAIDs has also demonstrated varying antidepressant efficacy. Furthermore, the stage of depression in patients across different studies may contribute to the observed differences in the efficacy of NSAIDs (; ).

2.3.1 Natural compounds with anti-inflammatory properties have antidepressant effects

Increasingly, studies are concentrating on the mechanisms and effects of natural products with anti-inflammatory activities in improving depressive-like behaviors. The structural diversity and broad pharmacological effects of natural products are notable characteristics that are not commonly found in synthetic antidepressants (). Natural products can modulate neural function through various mechanisms, such as affecting receptors or regulating immune processes, thereby achieving anti-inflammatory and antidepressant effects (Noori et al., 2022).

Compound 3C is a derivative of (+)-balasubramide, an 8-metalactam compound extracted from the yellow peel leaf of the Sri Lankan plant, which has been shown to have significant anti-inflammatory effects in microglia. Further investigation of the pharmacological activity of compound 3C showed that compound 3C could improve the depressive behavior of mice with endotoxins induced neuroinflammation by promoting the anti-inflammatory activity of microglia through adenosine 5’-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) signaling pathway, enhancing the expression of a variety of anti-inflammatory mediators, and inhibiting the pro-inflammatory activity of microglia (Wang et al., 2018). Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive and neuroprotective effects (). It has been reported that AS-IV may alleviate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ)/ axis-mediated neuroinflammation and relieve depression-like behaviors in chronic restraint stress-induced and LPS-induced mice by up-regulating PPARγ expression. Baicalin, a widely used drug, has strong anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation and anti-apoptosis activities (Song et al., 2018). Recent studies using chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced and endotoxin-induced depression mice have demonstrated that baicalin can improve depressive-like behavior and neuroinflammation by inhibiting the harmful overexpression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/forkhead Box O1 (FOXO1) pathway (). Ginsenoside Rg1 is widely reported to have a strong neuroprotective effect (Wang et al., 2023). Further evidence suggests that Rg1 may inhibit the transcriptional activity of NF-κB by increasing anti-inflammatory and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, neurotoxic mediators, pro-apoptotic proteins and microglia activation, as well as regulating mitogen activation and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) signaling pathways. Thus, it can reduce chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) -induced hippocampal neuroinflammation and improve adult hippocampal neurogenesis, and play an antidepressant role (). Many previous studies have found that pinocembrin exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects both in vitro and in vivo (Li J. M. et al., 2022). Current studies have shown that Pinocembrin can reverse CUMS-induced depression-like behaviors by acting against neuroinflammation and apoptosis through nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and NF-κB signaling pathways (Wang et al., 2020). In addition, catalpol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-oxidative effects (Liang et al., 2023). Recently, catalpol has been shown to improve depression-like behaviors in CUMS mice by alleviating oxidative stress-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and neuroinflammation (Wang et al., 2021). Previous studies have shown that cinnamic acid can attenuate LPS-induced depression-like behaviors by reducing LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress, and ameliorating LPS-induced BDNF damage (Zhuo et al., 2022). In addition to the above related findings, recent studies have also found that Asperosaponin VI exerts antidepressant effects by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, inhibiting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation, down-regulating the expression of indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) and normalizing abnormal glutamate transmission (Zhang et al., 2020).

By exploring the specific mechanisms and effects of these compounds in anti-inflammatory and anti-depressive effects in vivo and in vitro depression models, it lays a foundation for the pathogenesis and treatment of depression (Figure 3 and Table 4).

FIGURE 3

TABLE 4

NameSourcePharmacological actionMechanismDisease modelMode of administrationDoseReferences
Compound 3CLeaves of the Sri Lankan plant Clausena indicaAnti-apoptosis, neuroprotection, scavenging oxygen free radicals, etc.,Promote the anti-inflammatory activity of microglia through AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathwayC57BL/6 male mice induced by LPSIntraperitoneal injection1, 10 mg/kgWang et al., 2018
Astragaloside IVAstragalus membranaceus (Fisch) BgeAnti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, nerve protection, etc.,Alleviate PPARγ/NLRP3 axis-mediated neuroinflammation, up-regulate PPARγ expressionC57BL/6 male mice induced by CRS or LPSIntragastrical administration16, 32, 64 mg/kgSong et al., 2018
BaicalinRadix ScutellariaeAnti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotective, etc.,Inhibit the harmful overexpression of TLR4 and the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathwayICR male mice induced by CUMS or LPSIntragastrical administration30, 60 mg/kg
Ginsenoside Rg1GinsenosideAnti-oxidation, immune regulation, anti-tumor, anti-depression, anti-fatigue, etc.,Inhibit the transcriptional activity of NF-κB, regulating mitogen activation and SIRT1 signaling pathwaysC57BL/6 male mice induced by CSDSIntragastrical administration20, 40 mg/kg
PinocembrinPropolis, honeyAntioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, etc.,Act against neuroinflammation and apoptosis through Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-kB signaling pathwaysC57BL/6 male mice induced by CUMSIntragastrical administration10 mg/kgWang et al., 2020
CatalpolRoot of Rehmannia glutinosa LiboschAnti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-oxidation, etc.,Alleviate oxidative stress-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and neuroinflammationC57BL/6 male mice induced by CUMSIntraperitoneal injection20 mg/kgWang et al., 2021
Cinnamic acidCinnamonAnti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, etc.,Reduce LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress, ameliorate LPS-induced BDNF damageC57BL/6 male mice induced by LPSIntragastrical administration50, 100, 200 mg/kgZhuo et al., 2022
Asperosaponin VIRadix DipsaciAnti-inflammatory, antioxidant neuroprotection, etc.,Inhibit TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, microglia-mediated neuroinflammation, down-regulate the expression of IDO and normalize abnormal glutamate transmissionC57BL/6 male mice induced by LPSIntraperitoneal injection10, 20, 40, 80 mg/kgZhang et al., 2020

Some natural anti-inflammatory products and their role in depression.

2.4 Depression increases neuroinflammation

In summary, studies have found that depression and inflammation are mutually reinforcing. As mentioned above, inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of depression (Slavich and Irwin, 2014). It has been mentioned in many studies related to the pathogenesis of depression that the activation of microglial in the prefrontal cortex or hippocampus and the release of pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 in depressed animals with stress models (Su et al., 2017; McWhirt et al., 2019). In addition, the presence of depression also triggers more cytokines in the face of stressors and pathogens (). Consistent with the animal literature, human studies have shown that depression triggers an inflammatory response that promotes an increase in cytokines that respond to stressors and pathogens (Rohleder and Miller, 2008; ). For example, in women who had just given birth, those with a lifetime history of MDD had greater increases in serum levels of IL-6 and soluble IL-6 receptors than those without a history of depression (Maes et al., 2001). Similarly, MDD patients had greater increases in inflammatory markers after stressor stimulation than non-depressed controls. A similar conclusion was reached in another study that individuals with more severe depressive symptoms were more likely to induce an increase in IL-6 in laboratory stressors. As a result, patients who are in the midst of depression are exposed to stress again, and they may continue to experience severe and recurring inflammatory responses (Pace et al., 2006; Figure 4). This suggests that depression may enhance stress response systems by promoting hyperinflammation. These findings lead to a new understanding of the complex interplay between stress, depression, and immune disorders, and the possibility that combined treatment may promote recovery and reduce relapse risk when inflammation and depression occur simultaneously. Effective depression treatment can have profound effects on mood, inflammation, and health ().

FIGURE 4

2.5 Conclusion and future perspectives

This review summarizes the relationship between long-term stress-induced neuroinflammation and the increased incidence of depression. Stress stimuli can activate the central immune system, triggering neuroinflammation, which ultimately leads to the emergence of depressive symptoms. Chronic neuroinflammation promotes the polarization of stress-induced microglia and astrocytes, stimulating the release of neurotoxic inflammatory mediators, which in turn induce symptoms such as anhedonia, memory loss, and insomnia. Furthermore, the occurrence of depression exacerbates neuroinflammation, leading to the production and release of more pro-inflammatory mediators. This review also discusses the specific mechanisms by which microglia and astrocytes modulate depression. Modulating the phenotype and function of these glial cells may provide effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of depression. Additionally, we highlight the potential of natural products with anti-inflammatory properties in improving depressive symptoms, underscoring their significant potential in the development of depression therapies. In the future, technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, PET, MRI, and CRISPR-Cas9 can be employed to explore the specific activation phenotypes and gene expression targets of microglia and astrocytes in depression, enabling real-time monitoring of the activation of these two glial cells. Furthermore, by targeting the specific polarization phenotypes and gene targets of microglia and astrocytes in depression, natural products that can modulate these phenotypes and act on multiple targets in combination may become a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of depression.

Statements

Author contributions

KZ: Writing – original draft. YZ: Writing – original draft. SY: Visualization, Writing – original draft. LX: Visualization, Writing – original draft. SW: Visualization, Writing – original draft. JD: Visualization, Writing – original draft. HL: Visualization, Writing – original draft. HY: Writing – review and editing. WH: Writing – review and editing.

Funding

The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This work was funded by First-Class Discipline Team of Kunming Medical University (2024XKTDPY11), and Yunnan Province Young Academic and Technical Leaders Project (202105AC160078, WH).

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University for the support.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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Summary

Keywords

depression, neuroinflammation, microglia, astrocytes, anti-inflammatory

Citation

Zhao K, Zhang Y, Yang S, Xiang L, Wu S, Dong J, Li H, Yu H and Hu W (2025) Neuroinflammation and stress-induced pathophysiology in major depressive disorder: mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Front. Cell. Neurosci. 19:1538026. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2025.1538026

Received

02 January 2025

Accepted

03 April 2025

Published

23 April 2025

Volume

19 - 2025

Edited by

Yutaka Koyama, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Japan

Reviewed by

Yasuhiko Izumi, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Japan

Charles Elias Assmann, Federal University of Santa Maria, Brazil

Updates

Copyright

*Correspondence: Weiyan Hu, Haofei Yu,

†These authors have contributed equally to this work and share first authorship

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All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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