News Report | June 19, 2016
Genetic Changes Linked To Poverty Put Consumers At Higher Risk Of Depression
Adolescents in families with low socioeconomic status experience epigenetic changes associated with brain function that put them at higher risk of developing depression. The epigenetic changes affect the serotonin transporter gene, and predicted greater increases in threat-related amygdala reactivity. Greater amygdala reactivity is a risk factor for manifestation of depressive symptoms. The epigenetic changes may present a biomarker for intervention and prevention among high-risk individuals.
These findings were reported in “An Epigenetic Mechanism Links Socioeconomic Status To Changes In Depression-Related Brain Function In High-Risk Adolescents” by Johnna R. Swartz, Ph.D.; Ahmad R. Hariri, Ph.D . . .