Depression genes

Depression, genetics, and mitochondrial function

How does mitochondrial dysfunction relate to major depressive disorder? Learn about the causes of mitochondrial dysfunction as well as genetic variants that link the risk of depression to the mitochondria.

Identify Your Root Cause(s) of Depression

Depression can have multiple physiological causes. This article ties together 9 separate articles on depression to simply your genetic search.

MTHFR variants, depression, anxiety, symptoms and treatment

We are all genetically unique, and a common genetic variant in the MTHFR gene causes some people to be more susceptible to having low folate levels. This article explains the research linking MTHFR variants, folate, and depression — and gives you information on how diet or supplements may help.

Why Circadian Rhythm Disruption Causes Depression

For some people, circadian disruption can be chronic – and at the heart of depression or mood disorders. Genetic variants play a role in this susceptibility. Fortunately, there are solutions that may help. ​

Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Circadian Clock Genes

New research shows that depression and bipolar disorder are linked to changes or disruption in circadian genes. Some people carry genetic variants in the circadian genes that make them more susceptible to circadian disruption.

Serotonin: How your genes affect this neurotransmitter

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is important in depression, sleep, and many other aspects of health. Learn how your genetic variants in the serotonin receptor genes impact their function.

Genetics and Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is characterized by recurrent depression with a change in the season usually in fall/winter for most. Scientists think this is possibly due to an aberrant response to light – either not enough brightness to the sunlight or not enough hours of light. Your genes play a big role in this responsiveness to light.

BDNF serotonin

The Interaction Between BDNF and Serotonin

Genetic variants in the BDNF and serotonin receptor genes combine to increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Learn more about BDNF and how these variants interact — and check your genetic data to see how this applies to you.

Dopamine SNPs: Addiction, Mood, ADHD, and Schizophrenia

Dopamine is a powerful player in our cognitive function – impacting mood, movement, and motivation. Genetic variants in the dopamine receptors influence addiction, ADHD, neurological diseases, depression, psychosis, and aggression.

Do you wake up at 4 am? Genetics and early waking insomnia

Seeing 3:30 or 4:00 on your clock each morning? There could be a physiological reason for this. Learn about the genetic variants linked to early waking insomnia and the connection to depression. (Member’s article)

BDNF: cognition, stress resilience, introversion, and mood

Low levels of BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor) are linked to introversion, stress resilience, cognition, and depression levels. Discover ways to increase your BDNF levels and mitigate the problems associated with the BDNF gene variants. (Member’s article)

Maca Root: Research-backed Benefits and How It Works

Explore the benefits of Maca root, a cruciferous vegetable with adaptogenic properties, known for balancing hormone levels and aiding menopausal symptoms. Learn about its potential side effects, gene interactions, and the science behind its unique bioactive compounds.

Chronic Lyme: Genetic Susceptibility

The interesting thing about Lyme disease is that the genetic variants you carry impact both how the disease affects you and how well antibiotics work for you. Learn whether your genetic variants are linked to post-treatment Lyme disease symptoms such as joint pain. (Member’s article)

HPA Axis Dysfunction: Understanding Cortisol and Genetic Interactions

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in times of stress, and it also plays many roles in your normal bodily functions. It is a multi-purpose hormone that needs to be in the right amount (not too high, not too low) and at the right time. Your genes play a big role in how likely you are to have problems with cortisol.

featured image showing brain, weights, and creatine

Creatine: Boosting Muscles and Increasing Brain Power

Creatine is an amino acid used in muscle tissue and the brain for energy in times of stress. Genes play a role in creatine synthesis. Find out what the research shows about creatine supplements for muscle mass and cognitive function.

Dry Eye solutions

Dry Eyes: Using Genomics to Find Solutions

Do you suffer from dry eyes? Learn about current research-backed solutions and the genetics links that could increase your susceptibility.

MTHFR Mutation: What is it? How to check your raw data.

The MTHFR gene is important for how your body utilizes folate (vitamin B9) for creating neurotransmitters, detoxifying toxicants, and maintaining a healthy heart. Check your 23andMe or AncestryDNA data for the MTHFR C677T and A1298C variants.