The aims of this article is to review the current knowledge on the role of cytokines
in depression by discussing the brain action of cytokines, their role in the stress
response, their relationship to depression, and their sensitivity of antidepressant
treatment. From the data that are reviewed, several important points emerge：1）
Cytokines administered to patients and laboratory animals induce symptoms of
depression, including, depressed mood, anhedonia, reduced food intake, sleep disorder,
hyperactivity of HPA axis, and glucocorticoid resistance；2） Stress-induced cytokine
secretion may be responsible for the induction of depressive symptoms. 3）
Antidepressants have anti-inflammatory properties and interfere with cytokine
production and action. 4） Cytokine antagoinists may attenuate the symptoms of
depression. The cytokine model in depression may play a crucial role in the etiology
and psychopathology of depression.
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