[Genetics, gene-environment-interactions and epigenetics in the development of depressive disorders]

As demonstrated by numerous studies in quantitative and molecular genetics, genetic factors play an important role in the development of mental disorders. This review gives an overview on the methods and the available evidence from research in quantitative and molecular genetics of depressive disorders with a special focus on recent approaches, i.e. epigenetic research and gene environment interactions (with the example of the serotonin transporter gene 5-HTTLPR). The implications of the available evidence are discussed in the context of future research as well as of clinical practice.