Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Level and Geriatric Depression Scale among Elderly Persons with Mild to Moderate Depression

Ei Ei Mya Thant; Thurein Zaw; Sanda Kyaw; Soe Minn Htway

doi:10.5530/10.5530/ijcep.2023.10.4.31

Ei Ei Mya Thant Department of Physiology, University of Medicine, Magway, MYANMAR
Thurein Zaw Department of Physiology, University of Medicine, Taunggyi, MYANMAR
Sanda Kyaw Department of Physiology, University of Medicine, Yangon, MYANMAR
Soe Minn Htway Department of Physiology, University of Medicine, Magway, MYANMAR

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5530/10.5530/ijcep.2023.10.4.31

Keywords: Zinc, Brain derived neurotropic factor, Depression, Geriatric depression scale

Abstract

Background and Aim: Depression is a common mental health issue among the elderly. Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) is involved in neuronal survival and modulation of neurotransmitter profiles. Zinc deficiency increases neuronal degeneration. This study aims to investigate the effect of zinc supplementation on serum BDNF level and GDS (Geriatric Depression Scale) among elderly persons with mild to moderate depression. Methodology: Total 76 elderly persons with mild to moderate depression according to GDS score were selected and randomly assigned to supplement (zinc or placebo) groups using block randomization. Before and after supplementation of 20 mg zinc tablets/placebo tablets for 3 months, serum zinc levels and serum BDNF levels were measured, using the flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry and the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and GDS score also reassessed in both groups. Results: Baseline serum zinc, serum BDNF and GDS score were not significantly different between two groups. After zinc supplementation, serum zinc level and serum BDNF level were significantly increased. GDS score was also significantly reduced in the zinc group. Comparing to the placebo group, zinc group had lower GDS score and higher BDNF level. There was a significant negative correlation between serum zinc level and GDS score after supplementation in the study population. Conclusion: Zinc supplementation for three months had a beneficial effect on elderly persons with mild to moderate depression.