Genetic Factors in Anxiety and Depression
Author Information
Author(s): C. Middeldorp, M. C. T. Slof-Op 't Landt, S. E. Medland, C. E. M. van Beijsterveldt, M. Bartels, G. Willemsen, J-J. Hottenga, E. J. C. de Geus, H. E. D. Suchiman, C. V. Dolan, M. C. Neale, P. E. Slagboom, D. I. Boomsma
Primary Institution: VU University Amsterdam
Hypothesis
Does genetic variation in serotonergic and neurotrophic genes influence anxiety and depression in children and adults?
Conclusion
The study found no significant association between genetic variations in serotonergic and neurotrophic genes and anxiety/depression symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- The study assessed A/D symptoms five times over 11 years in adults and at ages 7, 10, 12, and during adolescence in children.
- Genetic association analyses showed no consistent effects of SNPs on A/D symptoms.
- Heritability estimates for A/D were around 70% in adults and 60% in children.
Takeaway
The researchers looked at genes to see if they affect anxiety and depression, but they didn't find any clear links.
Methodology
The study used longitudinal data from over 11,000 adults and over 20,000 children, assessing anxiety and depression symptoms at multiple time points and genotyping subjects for 45 SNPs.
Potential Biases
Potential for false positives due to the number of tests conducted without stringent corrections.
Limitations
The study did not cover all genes involved in anxiety and depression and did not correct for population stratification.
Participant Demographics
Participants included over 11,000 adults and over 20,000 children, with a mix of twins, siblings, and parents.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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