LONDON, April 28 (Xinhua) -- New treatments for depression, a condition that affects over 300 million people globally, could be expected after scientists mapped out the genetic foundation of the mental disorder in the largest study of its kind.
A 200-strong team of researchers from across the globe found 44 genetic variants that can increase the risk of developing major depression. Of those, 30 had never been connected to the condition before.
The new findings could help explain why not everyone treated with antidepressants sees their condition improve and could also point the way toward new medicines.
Scientists also found that the genetic basis for depression is shared with other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability globally. Sufferers can experience losses of appetite, mood, sleep, concentration, love, joy, enthusiasm, energy and serenity. As many as three percent with major depressive disorder attempt suicide. Yet only about half of patients respond well to existing treatments.
"The new genetic variants discovered have the potential to revitalize depression treatment by opening up avenues for the discovery of new and improved therapies," Gerome Breen of King's College London, who worked on the analysis, said.
The study, published in the journal Nature Genetics on Thursday, pooled data on more than 135,000 patients with major depression.
"This study has shed a bright light on the genetic basis of depression, but it is only the first step," Cathryn Lewis, another King's College London expert who worked on the team, said. "We need further research to uncover more of the genetic underpinnings, and to understand how genetics and environmental stressors work together to increase risk of depression."
