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Updated: May 30, 2026
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Published on: August 13, 2019
Oestrogen receptor polymorphisms and late-life depression.
Joanne Ryan1, Jacqueline Scali, Isabelle Carrière
1Inserm U1061, Hôpital La Colombière, 39 Avenue Charles Flahault, BP 34493, 34093 Montpellier Cedex 5, France. joanne.ryan@inserm.fr
Summary
Oestrogen receptor polymorphisms are linked to late-life depression in women. Specific estrogen receptor alpha and beta gene variations influence depression risk, particularly in those not using hormone therapy.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Emerging evidence implicates oestrogen in depression.
- The role of oestrogen receptor gene variations in late-life depression is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between oestrogen receptor (ER) polymorphisms and late-life depression.
- To examine the influence of hormone therapy on this association.
Main Methods:
- A large cohort of 6017 community-dwelling elderly individuals was studied.
- Depression was diagnosed using DSM-IV criteria (Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview) and assessed with the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale.
- Multivariate logistic regression analyzed associations between ER-α and ER-β polymorphisms and severe depression.
Main Results:
- Specific ER-α polymorphisms (rs2234693, rs9340799) were significantly associated with late-life depression risk in women.
- The ER-β rs1256049 polymorphism (A allele) increased depression risk in women not currently using hormone therapy.
- A weak association was observed between ER-β rs4986938 and depression risk in men.
Conclusions:
- Oestrogen receptor polymorphisms are associated with severe late-life depression risk.
- This association appears to be specific to women.
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