These findings show that depression, and especially acute depression and melancholia, are associated with increased lipid peroxidation and immune alterations pointing towards immune activation (increased sIL-6R), increased activity of the CIRS (increased sIL-1RA), and signs of immunosuppression (lowered IL-1α and increased TNF-R1/R2 levels). The gene discussed is IL6R; the disease is depressive disorder.