Evaluation of potential biomarker miRNAs and the levels of serotonin and dopamine in female patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder

Abstract

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by persistent obsessions and compulsions. This study aimed to explore the expression of specific miRNAs associated with OCD-related genes and evaluate their potential as diagnostic biomarkers in relation to plasma serotonin and dopamine levels. Blood samples were collected from 22 OCD patients and 20 healthy controls, and the expression levels of miR-132, miR125b-5p, and miR-21-3p were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Plasma serotonin and dopamine levels were measured, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied to assess the diagnostic potential of these biomarkers. Results showed that miR-132 was significantly upregulated, while miR125b-5p was downregulated in OCD patients compared to controls. Although no significant difference was found in dopamine levels, serotonin levels were significantly higher in the OCD group. The alteration in miR-125b-5p expression may be related to the pathogenesis of OCD, presenting it as a potential biomarker. Overall, miR-132 and miR-125b-5p appear to be promising biomarkers for OCD, with miR-125b-5p potentially reflecting involvement in the disorder's underlying mechanisms. These miRNAs, along with serotonin, could provide valuable insights into improving OCD diagnostics.