New Delhi — In a groundbreaking discovery, Australian researchers have identified significant genetic differences in how females and males experience depression — a finding that could lead to more effective, gender-specific treatments and interventions.
The study, published in Nature Communications, revealed that genetic factors contribute more strongly to depression in females than in males. Researchers from the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute found nearly twice as many genetic “flags” for depression in the DNA of females compared to males.
“We already know that females are twice as likely to suffer from depression during their lifetime as males,” said Dr. Brittany Mitchell, Senior Researcher at QIMR Berghofer’s Genetic Epidemiology Lab. “Until now, there hasn’t been much consistent research to explain why depression affects females and males differently, including the role of genetics.”
The team identified around 13,000 genetic variations linked to depression — about 7,000 common to both sexes and an additional 6,000 found only in females.
Dr. Jodi Thomas, a co-author of the study, noted that the findings also show how depression may manifest differently between the sexes. “We found some genetic differences that may help explain why females with depression more often experience metabolic symptoms, such as weight changes or altered energy levels,” she said.
The research, the largest global study of its kind, analysed DNA from hundreds of thousands of individuals, including 130,000 women and 65,000 men diagnosed with depression. The DNA variations identified are inherited genetic differences, not changes caused by life experiences.
Traditionally, most depression treatments and drug trials have been based on male physiology, but the researchers hope this study will help advance clinical understanding and lead to more personalized treatments for women.
“By unpacking the shared and unique genetic factors in males and females, we gain a clearer picture of what drives depression — and can move closer to developing tailored therapies,” Dr. Thomas added.
The findings underscore the importance of considering sex-specific genetic influences in the study and treatment of depression and other complex health disorders.
With inputs from IANS