Because alterations of metals as well as oxidative/inflammatory status may be linked to abnormal NMDAR function and depression, here we measured bio-elements (zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium, and iron) and oxidation/inflammation parameters (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl content (PCC), IL-1α and IL-1β) in serum, the Hp and PFC of rats following a zinc-deficient (ZnD) diet administration. The gene discussed is IL1A; the disease is major depressive disorder.