Project Summary

Shawn Hayley, Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2006) of Carleton University, will study the role of the immune cytokine interferon α (IFN- α) and depressive symptoms. Immune activation provokes neurotransmitter and behavioral changes similar to those associated with depression. These effects are linked to cytokines, factors produced within the brain that effect emotional (in the hypothalamus) and cognitive (in the hippocampus) functioning. In fact, IFN- α, a cytokine used to treat certain cancers or hepatitis C, induces depressive symptoms preventable by antidepressants. But individuals taking IFN- α are under stress from the disease and the treatment. Dr. Hayley proposes that the stress and IFN- α may together promote depressive-like illness and plans to study that interaction. He will look at behaviors associated with the treatment and try to identify cytokines influencing the symptoms. Results may contribute to an understanding of the possible synergy between immune activity and stress contributing to symptoms. He also hopes to find endogenous cytokines that may mediate such a depressive syndrome.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Unipolar

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