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GENETICS OF RECURRENT EARLY-ONSET DEPRESSION (GenRED)
Why are Family and Genetic Studies Important?
Studies suggest that an inborn tendency to develop major depression runs in some families. This is especially so for the families of individuals who have suffered recurrent bouts of major depression beginning early in adulthood.
Family studies provide estimates of the likelihood that relatives of individuals with major depression will develop depression or a related disorder. They also provide an important resource for identifying genes and environmental factors that influence the risk of developing these disorders - either positively or negatively.
The goal of our genetic studies is to identify and characterize genes that influence the risk of developing major depression and related disorders. Studies of these genes may increase our understanding of the biology of major depression and help to identify opportunities for the development of new and more effective treatments. These results may also enable physicians to optimize the effectiveness of currently available treatments.
What is Major Depression? |
What is Recurrent, Early-Onset Depression?
Why are Family and Genetic Studies Important? |
How do I and my family participate?
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