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Genetic counselling for affective disease
Psychiatric Journal of the University of Ottawa : Revue De Psychiatrie De L'Universite D'Ottawa
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Genetic studies confirm affective disorders have a biological basis. Research is identifying specific susceptibility genes, revealing genetic heterogeneity in these complex conditions.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Familial aggregation of affective disorders suggests a biological, not social, component.
- Previous research established a genetic link but lacked detailed inheritance patterns or specific gene identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the genetic basis of affective disorders.
- To discuss the identification of susceptibility genes and genetic heterogeneity.
- To outline empiric risk figures for relatives of affected individuals.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of twin, adoption, and cross-fostering studies.
- Pedigree analysis to trace inheritance patterns.
- Identification of DNA segments linked to affective illness susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Two susceptibility genes for affective illness have been identified.
- Affective illness is genetically heterogeneous, with different genes involved in different families.
- First-degree relatives have a 25-30% risk, second-degree 12-15%, and third-degree 6-9% risk.
Conclusions:
- Physicians should ascertain familial vs. non-familial affective illness in patients.
- Genetic heterogeneity necessitates ongoing gene discovery for affective disorders.
- Understanding genetic risk is crucial for patient counseling and management.