Pioneering research uncovers diverse genetic links
For the first time, an international team of scientists led by the Edinburgh University has identified new genetic risk factors of the depression in diverse global populations. Published in the prestigious magazine cellthis work reveals almost 300 genetic variations previously unknown causes related to this disease, allowing the risk of depression to be predicted more accurately, regardless of ethnicity.
Diverse genetic inclusion breaks barriers in research
The study analyzed genetic data from more than five million people of 29 countriesintegrating for the first time individuals of descent african, asian, Hispanic and of south asia. This approach allowed us to discover 100 new genetic variants associated with the depression that had not been identified in previous research focused mainly on populations of European origin.
Impact of genetic variants on the brain and emotions
The researchers found that these variants affect neurons in several brain regions involved in the control of emotions. The identification of 308 specific genes related to the depression offers new insights into how this condition affects the brain and opens pathways to developing most effective treatments.
Existing drugs could have new uses
Among the findings, medications stand out pregabalin and modafinilcurrently used to treat chronic pain and the narcolepsy. These drugs could potentially be reused to treat depressionalthough more studies are required and clinical trials to confirm its effectiveness in this new context.
Global collaboration to understand depression
This study, also coordinated by the King’s College London and the Psychiatric Genomics Consortiuminvolved scientists from South Africa, Brazil, Mexico, USA, Australia, Taiwan and Chinamarking a milestone in the inclusion of genetic diversity in psychiatric research.
Challenges and next steps in research
The teacher Andrew McIntoshof the Edinburgh Universityemphasizes the need to conduct larger and more representative studies to better understand the depression and develop personalized therapies. For her part, the teacher Cathryn Lewisof the King’s College Londonhighlights that these findings confirm the character highly polygenic of the depression and its potential to transform clinical care. This advance represents a fundamental step towards a global understanding of the depression and reinforces the importance of genetic diversity in the development of effective treatments.
