Depression Genetics Study Highlights Diversity

Novel insights from a landmark study using genomic dataset with unprecedented diversity

Did you know that your genetic makeup could hold important clues about your risk for depression? A groundbreaking new study, led by the University of Edinburgh and King’s College London, has analyzed the genomes of over five million people across 29 countries, including a pool of 23andMe research participants who consented to participate in studies like this.

Using this collaborative approach, the study uncovered nearly 300 previously unknown genetic links to depression. Crucially, it included participants from African, East Asian, Hispanic, and South Asian backgrounds, marking a significant departure from previous studies that overwhelmingly focused on individuals of European descent.

This diversity wasn’t just a milestone for representation; it was key to the study’s success. Among the newly discovered genetic variants, 100 were identified solely because of the inclusion of these underrepresented populations.

In total, researchers found nearly 700 genetic variations linked to depression, implicating 308 specific genes. Many of these genes are associated with neurons in brain regions that regulate emotion, offering fresh insights into depression’s biological underpinnings.

Depression: A Closer Look at Genetics

As winter drags on, the dark days and cold temperatures are a drain on everyone’s mood. For people predisposed to depression, though, it can mean more than that. While two people might go through the same long, dark winter, one person might feel pretty much normal, while the other might experience it as a trigger for the changes to mood, cognition, energy, sleep, appetite and more that define depression.

What makes some people prone to depression, and not others? Depression impacts 1 in 5 people in the U.S. in their lifetimes, making it one of the most common mental illnesses. But scientists are still learning more about what contributes to an individual’s risk for depression.

It’s already known that the risk is increased by going through stressful life experiences like childhood adversity, discrimination, or serious health problems. And we’ve long known from family studies that depression can run in families, hinting at a genetic component.

Pinpointing the exact genetic factors at play has been challenging. Researchers use genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to uncover genetic variants — small differences in DNA — that might influence the likelihood of experiencing depression. However, these studies require enormous datasets to find statistically significant patterns.

Diversity Drives Breakthroughs in Depression Research

The results of this new study from the University of Edinburgh and Kings College London stand out for the diversity of the data set and have implications for reducing ethnic disparity in future advances in genomic medicine. The more we know about the genetics of depression in people of a given ancestry, the better our ability to predict which individuals are most likely to experience depression in that group.

The study’s findings also open up exciting avenues for treatment. Researchers identified genes targeted by existing antidepressant medications and flagged new ones that could lead to novel therapies. Intriguingly, the results highlighted two drugs — pregabalin, used for chronic pain, and modafinil, used for narcolepsy — as potential candidates for repurposing to treat depression. While more research is needed, these findings could pave the way for more effective treatments in the future.

23andMe’s role in advancing genomic research

23andMe’s diverse group of research participants has enabled us to conduct or contribute to more than 250 studies on a wide range of conditions, including collaborations like this study.

It’s also made it possible for us to offer cutting-edge genetic reports on predispositions to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. These reports, based on methodology called polygenic scores or PRS, let individuals understand what genome-wide association study findings mean for themselves. Knowing that you have an increased likelihood of depression or another condition based on genetics can help individuals identify potential symptoms early and seek support when needed. And for many, understanding the genetic component of their condition can help reduce feelings of self-blame and stigma.

Our Depression PRS report, part of 23andMe Premium, is available to people from six major ancestry groups, again thanks to our diverse research participants that enabled us to scientifically validate the model in all these ancestries.

How to be a part of depression genomics research

This study — made possible by the contributions of 23andMe research participants — marks a significant step forward in understanding the genetics of depression, but there’s still more to do. If you’re a 23andMe customer and you’re interested in contributing to more research studies like this one, you can learn more here about how to get involved.

Key Takeaways

Depression affects millions, but this groundbreaking study uncovers nearly 700 genetic links to the condition, including discoveries made possible by the inclusion of diverse populations.
The findings offer insights into the biological underpinnings of depression and potential new treatment options.
23andMe’s Depression PRS report empowers individuals to understand their genetic likelihood and take more control of their mental health journey.