Interview study, 2017
Is PMDD caused by genes?
Probably not much. There is limited evidence that genes cause PMDD, though some genes may play a role. The evidence is stronger for postpartum depression.
What they did
Literature review of genetic studies on PMDD and postpartum depression from the past 10 years. The authors examined familial studies, genome-wide linkage and association studies, and candidate gene studies.
What they found
Limited evidence for a genetic basis for PMDD, with both familial and candidate gene studies showing negative or conflicting results. The most commonly studied genes include SERT, COMT, MAOA, BDNF, and ESR1 and 2. Evidence was stronger for postpartum depression when it started soon after delivery, including associations with estrogen-related genes and epigenetic biomarkers.
What it means for you
Genes probably play only a small role in PMDD, and we need larger studies to be sure. The evidence for postpartum depression is stronger. These findings suggest that other factors besides genes may be more important for PMDD.
5
main genes studied (SERT, COMT, MAOA, BDNF, ESR1/2)
10 years
time period of reviewed studies
About the study
- Original title
- Reproductive Affective Disorders: a Review of the Genetic Evidence for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and Postpartum Depression
- Authors
- McEvoy K, Osborne LM, Nanavati J et al.
- Journal
- Current psychiatry reports
- Year
- 2017
- Study design
- Interview study
- What was tested
- None
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1007/s11920-017-0852-0
Topics
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