In the peer-reviewed study, which is touted as one of the largest ever conducted in this field, scientists analyzed the DNA of nearly 200,000 people with depression to identify common genetic "markers."
13,000 genetic markers linked to depression in women
Women had nearly twice as many genetic markers linked to depression as men, according to the project led by the Berghofer Institute for Medical Research in Australia. “Identifying common and specific genetic factors in men and women allows us to better understand the causes of depression and opens the way to more personalized treatments.”, explained researcher Jodi Thomas in a press release.
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Researchers have identified approximately 13,000 genetic markers linked to depression in women, compared to 7,000 in men. Some of these genetic differences may also influence metabolism or hormone production.
Depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders
"We discovered some genetic differences that could help us explain why women with depression more often experience metabolic symptoms, such as weight fluctuations or changes in their energy levels.", said Jodi Thomas. Depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders, affecting more than 300 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
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"Until now, there have not been many reliable studies to explain why depression affects women and men differently, including the possible role of genetics," said researcher Brittany Mitchell. "More and more articles show that many of the drugs currently being developed – and the research conducted to date – focus primarily on men," she added.
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