Scientists find hundreds more genetic risk factors for depression

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A global study has discovered 300 new genetic risk factors for depression as it examined a much broader population sample.

Currently, it's estimated to impact approximately 280 million Australians.

Various factors like bad life events, physical health issues, and stress can increase the risk of getting depression, which also has a strong genetic link.

An international team of researchers, led by the University of Edinburgh and King's College London, examined anonymous genetic data from over 5 million individuals in 29 countries, with one in four hailing from non-European backgrounds.

Previous research on the genetics of depression has mainly focused on white, affluent populations, ignoring the majority of the people worldwide. But by including a more diverse group, the researchers were able to find new factors that contribute to the risk of depression.

Scientists, who've published their findings in the journal Cell, discovered 700 genetic variations linked to depression, around half of which were previously unknown connections.

A small changes to the DNA code were found to be linked to the neurons in a number of brain areas, including the bit that controls emotions.

In summary, a total of 100 previously undiscovered genetic differences were pinpointed specifically because the study included people from Africa, East Asia, Hispanic and South Asian backgrounds.

Even though each individual genetic risk factor for depression is quite small, the overall effect for people with several different DNA variations can increase their risk, the research says.

The authors reckon their findings will enable scientists to foretaste the risk of depression more accurately, no matter the person's ethnicity, and create treatment options that cater to a broader range of people, ultimately reducing disparities in healthcare.

The study calculated that 308 genes were associated with higher risk of depression. The researchers then examined more than 1,600 medications to see if they had an impact on those genes. In addition to antidepressants, the study identified that Pregabalin, used for chronic pain, and Modafinil, used for narcolepsy, also had an effect on these genes and could therefore potentially be used to treat depression. Further studies and clinical trials would be needed to explore the potential of these drugs in patients with depression, the authors said.

Prof Andrew McIntosh, one of the lead authors on the study, from the University of Edinburgh's Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, said: "Fair dinkum, there are massive holes in our knowledge of clinical depression that are holding back chances to improve results for those affected."

Bigger and more thorough research studies that represent people from a broader global community are essential to get the insights needed to develop improved treatments and prevent illness in those who are more likely to develop the condition.

Responding to the findings, Dr David Crepaz-Keay, the head of research and applied learning at the Mental Health Foundation, said that the study’s diverse gene pool was “a significant step forward” but that genetic risk factors should not be used as a definitive guide to treatment.

“While research like this can help shape measures for those at higher genetic risk, the prevention of depression must focus on addressing the broader issues in society that impact mental health to a much greater extent, such as experiences of poverty or racism,” he added.

Dr Jana de Villiers, a spokesperson for the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: “We welcome this research into the genetic variants that can make people more susceptible to depression, and its diversity in terms of global representation makes it particularly noteworthy. By improving our understanding of genetic risk factors and the causes of mental illness, we may be able to develop better treatment methods.

“We will continue to support ongoing efforts to prevent mental illness and improve outcomes for those affected by depression.”