Inflammatory biomarkers and oral microbiome alterations in depression and anxiety disorders: a systematic review.
World J Biol PsychiatryJul 9, 2026 (epub)
Alec Juhl, Sun Ha Park, Mitra Simanian et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined the relationship between depression, anxiety disorders, inflammatory biomarkers, and oral microbiome alterations. It included 53 studies, revealing that depression is linked to changes in pro-inflammatory markers like CRP and IL-6, while anxiety findings were more varied. The review highlights the potential role of the oral microbiome in these mental health conditions.
Key findings
- Depression is associated with alterations in pro-inflammatory markers, particularly CRP and IL-6-related signalling.
- Anxiety-related findings regarding inflammatory biomarkers were more heterogeneous compared to depression.
- Oral microbiome studies indicated dysbiosis linked to depression and anxiety, though results varied by population and sampling site.
- Current evidence supports an oral-immune-brain framework, but remains largely observational.
Why it matters
Understanding the links between inflammatory biomarkers, the oral microbiome, and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can inform future research and potential integrative approaches in mental health care.