Scientists Find Sex-Specific Genes Linked to Depression

New Delhi: A team of Australian researchers has uncovered key genetic differences in how depression affects females and males, marking a major step toward more personalized treatments and interventions.

In a study published in Nature Communications, scientists found that genetic factors play a larger role in depression risk among females compared to males. The research team from the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute identified nearly twice as many genetic “flags” for depression in the DNA of females than in males.

“We already know that females are twice as likely to experience depression during their lifetime as males,” said Dr Brittany Mitchell, Senior Researcher at QIMR Berghofer’s Genetic Epidemiology Lab.

“Until now, there hasn’t been consistent research explaining why depression manifests differently between the sexes, including the role of genetics.” The study identified about 7,000 DNA changes linked to depression in both sexes and an additional 6,000 changes specific to females, totalling around 13,000 genetic variations.

Dr Jodi Thomas, another researcher on the team, noted that these findings also shed light on how depression symptoms may differ between men and women. The genetic factors linked to depression showed a greater overlap with metabolic traits in females, which may explain why women with depression more often experience symptoms such as weight fluctuations or changes in energy levels

For this large-scale global study, the researchers analysed DNA samples from hundreds of thousands of people, including around 130,000 females and 65,000 males diagnosed with depression. The identified DNA variations are inherited genetic differences , not changes caused by environmental factors or life experiences.

Traditionally, most medical research and drug trials have been conducted on males, but the researchers hope this work will contribute to a better understanding of depression in women as well.

“Unpacking the shared and unique genetic factors in males and females gives us a clearer picture of what causes depression — and opens the door to more personalized treatments,” Dr Thomas said. The findings underscore the importance of considering sex-specific genetic influences when studying depression and other health conditions.