The study calculated 308 genes associated with a higher risk of depression and explored the impact of over 1,600 medications, identifying existing drugs like Pregabalin and Modafinil that could potentially treat depression. The findings aim to enhance the accuracy of predicting depression risks and diversify treatment options.
Read the article to know how experts welcomed the study’s diverse representation and emphasized addressing broader societal factors, such as poverty and racism, for depression prevention.
Vocabulary Questions:
- Explain the word “adverse”. ” While a range of factors including adverse life events, physical ill health and stress can increase the risk of developing depression, it also has a genetic component.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does the word “anonymize” mean? “An international team of researchers, led by the University of Edinburgh and King’s College London, studied anonymized genetic data from more than 5 million people in 29 countries, with one in four from non-European ancestries.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does the word “cumulative” mean? “While each genetic risk factor for depression is very small, the cumulative impact for individuals with multiple DNA variants, can increase their risk, the study found.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- How do you feel about the idea that genetics play a significant role in depression?
- Does it change how you view mental health conditions?Now that researchers have identified hundreds of genetic risk factors for depression, do you think this will lead to more effective treatments in the near future?
- Would you consider taking a genetic test to assess your risk for depression if it could help with early intervention? Why or why not?
- Since genetics is only one factor in depression, what other influences—like environment, lifestyle, or stress—do you think play an equally important role?