Join Here   |   Log In
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, 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.

Circadian rhythm disruption as a root cause of 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.

Agmatine: Neuropathic pain and mood

Acting as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator, agmatine holds promise for neuropathic pain, depression, and brain function.

featured image for an article on how genes impact serotonin levels.

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 Receptor 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? Genes 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)

Phthalates: Genes, Detoxification, and Diet

Phthalates are a type of chemical used as plasticizers to make plastics more pliable. There has been a lot of research on the endocrine-disrupting effects of phthalates. Your genetic variants may impact whether phthalates are a problem for you.

Estrogen: How it is made and how we get rid of it

Estrogen – from how much is made to how it is broken down – is dependent on both genetics and lifestyle factors and affects both men and women. This article explains how estrogen is made, how it is eliminated from the body, which genes are involved, and how this influences the risk of breast cancer, prostate cancer, and fibroids.