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Nonpharmacologic interventions for alterations DNA methylation in common mental disorders: A systematic review and
Reni Merta Kusuma1, Vivi Leona Amelia2, Doreen Phiri3
1School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan; Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Yogyakarta 55294, Indonesia.
Background:
Common mental disorders pose a substantial public health burden. Nonpharmacological interventions, including psychological, physical, and neuromodulatory therapies, have been identified as promising adjuncts or alternatives to pharmacological treatments. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying their effects, particularly those involving epigenetic regulation such as DNA methylation, remain poorly understood. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated whether nonpharmacological interventions are associated with changes in DNA methylation and characterized gene-specific methylation patterns relevant to therapeutic outcomes.
Methods:
Following PRISMA guidelines and PROSPERO registration, we identified observational and interventional studies involving adults with common mental disorders diagnosed via DSM, ICD, or validated diagnostic tools. Eligible studies reported DNA methylation outcomes assessed using validated laboratory techniques and human biological samples. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist, the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and the BIOCROSS appraisal tool.
Results:
A total of 32 studies (16 observational and 16 interventional) met the inclusion criteria. Most reported significant postintervention DNA methylation changes, with directionality (hypo- or hypermethylation) varying by gene and intervention type. Psychotherapy showed the strongest effects (SMD = 0.75 for hypermethylation; SMD = -0.92 for hypomethylation). The largest gene-specific effect was observed for NRN1 following cognitive behavioral therapy (SMD = 1.71). Heterogeneity across studies was generally low to moderate.
Conclusions:
Psychotherapy was associated with the most substantial DNA methylation changes, suggesting a role for epigenetic regulation in its therapeutic efficacy. These findings support the integration of nonpharmacological interventions into clinical and community mental health care.
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