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Related Experiment Video

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A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats

A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats

Published on: February 22, 2018

Gene-environment interactions in geriatric depression.

Francis E Lotrich¹

¹Department of Psychiatry, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinics, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 3811 Ohara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. lotrichfe@upmc.edu

The Psychiatric Clinics of North America

|May 4, 2011

Summary

Genetics, including stress-related genes and serotonin transporter variations, can influence major depression risk in older adults. Environmental factors and early life trauma interact with these genetic predispositions.

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Area of Science:

Gerontology
Psychiatry
Genetics

Background:

Major depression is a significant concern in older adults.
Environmental stressors are known triggers for depressive episodes.
Genetic factors are increasingly recognized as influencing vulnerability to depression.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore the interplay between genetic factors and environmental challenges in late-life major depression.
To review evidence on gene-environment interactions in the context of depression onset.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies investigating genetic polymorphisms and environmental stressors.
Analysis of research on the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) and stress.
Examination of genes involved in the neuroendocrine stress axis and other monoaminergic systems.

Main Results:

Evidence suggests an interaction between stress and serotonin transporter polymorphism, though study results vary.
Genes regulating the neuroendocrine stress axis, growth factors, and monoamine systems are implicated.
Early life trauma and later life events can interact with genetic predispositions.

Conclusions:

Genetic vulnerability, particularly involving stress-related genes and serotonin pathways, plays a role in major depression in older adults.
Gene-environment interactions, including childhood trauma and life events, are critical in understanding depression onset.
Further research is needed to clarify the complex genetic and environmental contributions to late-life depression.