The discoveries offer information on how the disease affects the brain and bring possibilities for new treatments
Scientists from various countries have identified risk genetic factors for the depression In populations of different ethnic groups, allowing to predict the risk of the disease regardless of the genetic origin of the person. The study is the largest and most varied ever on genetics of depression. The results were Published in cellular magazine.
The authors analyzed the data of over 5 million people in 29 countries, including the recordings of high-risk Brazilian cohort (BHRC) or a high-risk Brazilian cohort for mental disorders, a study with the mental health research center (CISM), a special Fapesp project hosted at the University of São School Medicine (FM-OSP).
The analyzes revealed 697 genetic variations relating to depression, almost 300 of them never identified before.
“This new information highlights the areas of the brain that can be direct objectives for therapies and allows the adaptation of medicine Existing to treat depression “, explains the teacher UNIFep Sinia Belangero, also a member of CISM.
Among the medicines that can be reused, some are already used to treat chronic pain e sleep. However, researchers warn that more studies and clinical tests are needed before confirming their effectiveness for depression.
By also participating in the initiative, there were other members of CISM, such as teachers Giovanni Salum, of the Federal University of Rio Grande do on (Ufrgs) and Marcos Santoro, of UNIFep.
The authors explain that, since most of the previous genetic research focused on populations of European origin, there was a limitation on the application of results in other ethnic groups, thus perpetuating the inequalities in the treatments.
Now, with 25% of participants in non -European ancestors, the new study represents a fundamental step in making more inclusive scientific progress.
“These results help to reduce historical gaps in the knowledge of depression and can benefit from millions of people in the populations who have previously been underz being,” says researcher Vanessa Ota, also of UNIFep.
Minds of the future
The results highlight the need for more global and collaborative research. Scientists expect data to act as a basic for new treatments, as well as to improve the prevention of depression in subjects with a greater genetic risk.
“Now we have a much clearer vision of the genetic base of depression, but there is still a lot to do. The final goal is to transform these discoveries into better and more convenient care for those who suffer from this condition,” says the interdisciplinary doctoral student of UNIFep (Linc) doctorate from the analysis of the data of the articles.
Bhrc followed a decade and a half, 2,500 children AND teenagers From public schools in the cities of San Paolo and Porto Alegre, together with their parents and children born years after the start of the research.
The goal is to study the psychological, biological and social factors associated with the origin of mental disorders and the variations of cognitive development. In Cism, the project is called “Minds of the Future Connection”.
The study developed a large database with hundreds of thousands of variables, allowing a detailed analysis and the formulation of new questions about mental health, including aspects relating to genetics and brain structure.
The project tries to offer innovative intuitions and, until then, inaccessible on the origins of mental disorders. / With information from Cism.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
