Study: Gene duplication can lead to depression

A study from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia revealed that gene duplication can predispose individuals to depression. These genes are also responsible for the development of nerve cells, which has lead researchers to believe that disruptions in the neurotransmission network can lead to the condition.

Officials said that a copy of a gene on chromosome-5 occurred more often in people who have been diagnosed with major depression. Furthermore researchers showed that 12 gene duplications were found to be exclusive to the condition.

They added that these instances are very rare but show that those with gene duplication have a higher chance of developing depression. These findings can help predict a person’s future risk of contracting this condition.

Boarding schools can help children and teens who have developed depression by offering individualized education and therapy to help them overcome the symptoms of the condition.

According to the National Institute for Mental Health, nearly 14.8 million Americans suffer from major depressive disorder. Furthermore, the condition is most often found in women.