TNF and major depressive disorder: The significant association between ABSI and depression observed in our study can be explained through several potential mechanisms: From a physiological standpoint, central adiposity, as indicated by elevated ABSI values, triggers a state of chronic inflammation that promotes the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), (26) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).