Hi @scienceblocks: a brilliant piece. Material was clear and relatable. Nice balance between science and accessibility.
I'm not at all surprised by the relationship you draw between chronic inflammation and depression. One disease with which I have some familiarity is SLE. The SLE story is inflammation, as you know--everywhere/or anywhere. An acknowledged symptom of SLE is depression/anxiety. Studies on SLE patients back up your thesis... a demonstrated connection between chronic inflammation and depression.
SLE is associated with depression, a finding that may result from both the physical effect of the autoimmunity on the nervous system and the suffering due to pain and disability[Depression and anxiety in systemic lupus erythematosus. From The crosstalk between immunological, clinical, and psychosocial factors
Your article really laid out a map for exactly how the inflammation interferes with signalling.
Another great piece from the inimitable #scienceblocks:)