Researchers Identify Genetic Markers for Depression Across Various Ethnic Groups

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Healthcare (Commonwealth Union)Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. While everyone experiences feelings of sadness or grief at times, depression is different in that these feelings are intense, long-lasting, and can interfere with daily life.

Depression is a complex condition, and its exact cause is still not fully understood. However, prior research has suggested that a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors can contribute to its development. Some common triggers include stress, trauma, family history of depression, chronic illness, and substance abuse.

For the first time, scientists have identified genetic risk factors for depression across all major global populations, enabling the prediction of depression risk regardless of ethnic background.

The largest and most diverse genetic study on major depression to date has uncovered nearly 300 previously unknown genetic links to the condition, researchers report.

The study found that 100 of these newly identified genetic variations—small changes in the DNA sequence of a gene—were discovered due to the inclusion of individuals of African, East Asian, Hispanic, and South Asian descent.

Historically, studies on the genetics of depression have predominantly focused on populations of European ancestry. As a result, treatments developed through genetic research may not be as effective for people of other ethnic backgrounds, potentially exacerbating existing health disparities.

Researchers of the study pointed out that while each individual genetic variant contributes only minimally to the overall risk of depression, the combined presence of multiple variants can significantly increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

The research team enhanced their ability to predict an individual’s risk of depression by incorporating the newly identified genetic variants into their analysis.


Led by researchers from the University of Edinburgh and King’s College London, the international team analyzed anonymized genetic data from over five million individuals across 29 countries. Notably, one in four participants came from non-European ancestries, ensuring a broader representation in the study.

“There are huge gaps in our understanding of clinical depression that limit opportunities to improve outcomes for those affected. Larger and more globally representative studies are vital to provide the insights needed to develop new and better therapies, and prevent illness in those at higher risk of developing the condition,” said Professor Andrew McIntosh who is the Study co-lead, from the University of Edinburgh, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences.

Researchers uncovered 700 genetic variations associated with the development of depression, nearly half of which had not previously been linked to the condition. These variations point to 308 specific genes involved in the disorder.

The identified genetic variants were connected to neurons—specialized brain cells—across several brain regions, including those responsible for regulating emotions.

According to experts, these findings provide valuable insights into how depression affects the brain and could lead to the identification of new treatment targets.


The research team highlighted existing medications, such as pregabalin, used for chronic pain, and modafinil, prescribed for narcolepsy, as potential candidates for repurposing to treat depression.

However, they emphasized that additional research and clinical trials are required to evaluate the effectiveness of these drugs in managing depression.

“Depression is a highly prevalent disorder and we still have a lot to learn about its biological underpinnings. Our study identifies hundreds of additional genetic variants that play a role in depression. These findings show depression is highly polygenic and open up downstream pathways to translate these findings into better care for people with depression,” explained Professor Cathryn Lewis, the study co-lead, from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King’s College London.

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