In a new study, which is the world’s largest and most comprehensive genetic study on severe depression, almost 300 previously unknown genetic links to the condition are identified. The findings are hoped to lead to better treatment of depression.

The study has, for the first time, identified new genetic risk factors for depression in all major international population groups, making it possible for researchers to predict the risk of depression regardless of ethnicity.

The results come from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds including African, East Asian, Latin American, and South Asian populations. Previous studies have mostly focused on individuals of European descent. Now, there is an expanded understanding of the genetic basis for depressive illness in several ethnic groups.

READ ALSO: Significant difference in men’s and women’s brains – could explain mental health

The research shows that the genetic variants are linked to brain cells that control emotions, providing new insights into how depression affects the brain.

In addition to the potential for more effective and equitable diagnosis and treatment of depression, the study has also identified new biological targets for potential treatments, which could lead to more effective care.

Five million individuals

Researchers from all continents, including researchers at Karolinska Institutet, are part of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium and have analyzed data from over five million people from a total of 29 countries, where one in four participants was of non-European descent. The focus was on small differences in DNA that can affect an individual’s propensity to develop depression.

Almost 700 genetic factors linked to depression, nearly half of which were previously unknown, could be identified.

The next step will be to study the potential for using existing drugs in new ways for the treatment of depression.

– We are very pleased that more than 5,000 research participants from Sweden with diagnosed severe depression have contributed to this global effort, says Lu Yi, senior researcher and responsible for the Swedish part of the study.

– The results truly represent a major advance in our understanding of the biology behind a mental illness that affects so many, Lu Yi continues.

READ ALSO: People with difficulties managing emotions are more likely to get stuck in computer gaming