 "Are women more prone to depression?")
It has been widely thought for a long time that women are at higher risk of depression than men. Now, a new study reiterates the idea — and points the finger squarely at DNA.
A project led by Australia’s Berghofer Medical Research Institute saw scientists review the DNA of almost 200,000 people with depression to discover shared genetic markers.
The research, called one of the largest-ever studies of its kind, was published in the journal Nature Communications. It showed that women had almost twice as many of these genetic markers linked to depression as men.
The researchers analysed the DNA of about 130,000 female participants and nearly 65,000 male participants who were all diagnosed with major depression.
Neuro-geneticist Jodi Thomas of QIMR Berghofer, who led the study, said, “The genetic component to depression is larger in females compared to males.” She added, “Unpacking the shared and unique genetic factors in males and females gives us a clearer picture of what causes depression — and opens the door to more personalized treatments.”
Scientists have identified about 7,000 DNA changes that could cause major depressive disorder in both sexes, plus roughly 6,000 more that appeared to cause the illness in females only. Males and females also experienced depression differently, the study authors wrote.
Why are women at a higher risk?
Researchers said genetic changes could lead to alterations in biological pathways related to metabolism or hormone production.
According to researchers, females were more likely to show symptoms such as weight gain, excessive daytime sleepiness, and increased appetite. On the other hand, males more frequently exhibited anger, aggression, risk-taking behaviours, and substance abuse.
“We found some genetic differences that may help explain why females with depression more often experience metabolic symptoms, such as weight changes or altered energy levels,” Thomas said.
Can this change the way depression is treated in women?
According to researcher Brittany Mitchell, these findings have the potential to transform depression treatment for women. “Until now, there hasn’t been much consistent research to explain why depression affects females and males differently, including the possible role of genetics,” she said.
“There are more and more stories coming out about how many of the medications that are currently developed, and the research that we’ve known to date, have mostly been focused on men or male participants.”
Clinical depression, or major depressive disorder, is one of the most common mental disorders in the world. More than 300 million people across the globe have depression, according to the World Health Organisation.
With inputs from AFP
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