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Is there a genetic relationship between alcoholism and depression?
John I Nurnberger1, Tatiana Foroud, Leah Flury
1Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
Summary
Genetic factors may link alcoholism and depression. The Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) found that a gene on chromosome 1 might predispose individuals to either alcoholism or depression, which often co-occur in families.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Alcoholism and depression frequently co-occur and demonstrate familial aggregation.
- The Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) investigated genetic underpinnings of these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genes contributing to alcoholism and related traits, including depression.
- To analyze the genetic linkage of specific phenotypes (alcoholism, alcoholism and depression, alcoholism or depression) to chromosomal regions.
Main Methods:
- COGA study participants and their first-degree relatives were assessed for alcoholism and depression.
- Phenotypes were defined as 'alcoholism,' 'alcoholism and depression,' and 'alcoholism or depression.'
- Genetic linkage analyses were performed to map these phenotypes to chromosomal regions.
Main Results:
- A significant genetic linkage was observed for the 'alcoholism or depression' phenotype on chromosome 1.
- This suggests the presence of genes on chromosome 1 influencing susceptibility to alcoholism and/or depression.
Conclusions:
- Genes on chromosome 1 may play a role in predisposing individuals to alcoholism or depression.
- The findings support a shared genetic etiology for alcoholism and depression, particularly when they co-occur.