Islam MR, et al. - The serum levels of macro-minerals (MM) (calcium and magnesium) and trace elements (TE) (copper, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc) were determined in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients. Researchers also ascertained their associations with depression risk. Findings revealed that for the pathogenesis of MDD, altered serum concentrations of MM and TE were major contributing factors. In MDD patients, alterations of serum levels of these elements arise independently and they may assist as a prognostic tool for the assessment of depression risk.