[Patho- and therapyepigenetics of mental disorders]
Christiane Ziegler1, Miriam A Schiele1, Katharina Domschke2
1Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Hauptstraße 5, 79104, Freiburg, Deutschland.
Der Nervenarzt
|October 11, 2018
Summary
Epigenetics, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, plays a key role in mental disorders like schizophrenia and depression. These epigenetic changes influence gene function and may predict treatment response.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are biochemical alterations affecting DNA structure and gene function.
- These mechanisms are dynamic, influenced by environmental factors, and central to understanding gene-environment interactions in mental health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of epigenetics in the pathogenesis of major mental disorders.
- To present findings on epigenetic alterations during pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.
- To highlight the potential of epigenetic profiles in precision medicine for mental disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on epigenetics and mental disorders.
- Synthesis of findings on DNA methylation and histone modifications in schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
- Analysis of studies examining epigenetic changes related to therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are crucial in the vulnerability-stress model of mental disorders.
- Alterations in DNA methylation and histone modifications are implicated in the development of schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
- Epigenetic profiles are associated with responses to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms are central to the interplay between genes and environment in mental disorders.
- Epigenetic profiles show promise as biomarkers for disease risk and treatment outcomes.
- Epigenetics may offer novel therapeutic targets for precision medicine approaches in psychiatry.
Keywords:
DNA methylationEpigenetic markersGene-environment interactionHistone modificationsResilienceMore Related Videos
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