B3997 - Investigating links between regulatory T cell depletion and mood and psychotic symptoms - 14/02/2022
Immune dysregulation is thought to be involved in psychiatric disorders, including psychotic and mood disorders (1). Regulatory T cells (Tregs), an important component of the immune system, may have a role when investigating the causes of disorders such as anxiety, depression and psychosis. For example reduced number of Tregs have been found in individuals with disorders including schizophrenia, postpartum psychosis and major depression (2-4). However, the role of immune dysregulation in mood and psychotic symptoms in the general population has not been investigated. Through ALSPAC, we will investigate whether Treg sensitive genes are more common in individuals who have reported mood and psychotic symptoms, including post-partum depression. In combination with follow up experiments, this project will help us understand whether immune dysregulation is a risk factor for mood and psychotic symptoms.