Temporarily Paused for Quality Assurance and Internal Review

At Xcode Life, we are committed to providing you with accurate, reliable, and high-quality genetic reports. To maintain this standard of excellence, we continuously review and update our products and services.

We would like to inform our valued customers that we have temporarily suspended the sale of our Carrier Status and Pro Athlete Reports. This decision has been made to carry out a comprehensive technical review and quality check, ensuring that our reports meet the highest industry standards.

Updates on Carrier Status and Pro Athlete Reports

As part of our commitment to excellence, our expert team is currently conducting an in-depth analysis of the Carrier Status and Pro Athlete Reports. This review will include:

1. Evaluating the methodology used for detecting genetic variants related to carrier status and athletic performance.
2. Assessing the accuracy and reliability of the results.
3. Ensuring that our reports are up-to-date with the latest scientific research and advancements.
4. Incorporating any necessary improvements to provide a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

Changes to Combo Report Packs

Please note that, during this period, the Carrier Status and Pro Athlete Reports will also be excluded from our mega and premium report packs. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and assure you that we are working diligently to bring back these reports as soon as possible.

What You Can Expect

We understand the importance of timely and accurate genetic information, which is why our team is working diligently to complete the review process. We expect the Carrier Status and Pro Athlete Reports to be back on sale and included in our combo report packs within the next few weeks.

In the meantime, our other genetic reports and services remain available for purchase. We encourage you to explore our extensive range of products designed to help you better understand your genetics and optimize your health.

Stay Informed

To stay updated on the progress of our Carrier Status and Pro Athlete Reports review and be the first to know when they are available again, we invite you to sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media. We will also be posting regular updates on our website.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer support team. We are always here to help.

Sincerely,
The Xcode Life Team

What Is The COMT Gene?

The Catechol-O-MethylTransferase gene (COMT gene) provides instructions for producing the Catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme (COMT enzyme). 

This has become a gene of interest because of its ability to affect people’s thinking, emotions, and behavior. 

Changes in the COMT gene have been associated with anxiety, aggression, and other psychopathological behaviors. 

What Is The Function Of COMT?

The COMT  gene produces two versions of the COMT enzyme. 

The membrane-bound COMT (MB-COMT) is produced by the brain’s nerve cells, which is the longer version.

The shorter version, called the soluble catechol-O-methyltransferase (S-COMT), is produced by different tissues in the body like the kidneys and liver and also by the blood.  

In the brain, the MB-COMT helps in breaking down catecholamines. 

Catecholamines are neurotransmitters with a single amino group, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. 

This enzyme is especially important in breaking down neurotransmitters in the brain's prefrontal cortex. 

The prefrontal cortex is a part of the brain associated with cognitive functions, including thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, and impulse control. 

Changes in the COMT  gene can lead to abnormal levels of COMT enzyme in the brain. 

This can increase or decrease neurotransmitter levels, leading to different personality disorders and an increased risk of developing certain health conditions.

Understanding The COMT Gene

Health Conditions Associated With The COMT Gene

Below are some of the health conditions associated with COMT gene changes.

Parkinson’s Disease 

A 2013 study analyzed the relationship between COMT gene changes (polymorphism) and the risk of Parkinson’s Disease. It reported that Asians with the AA homozygote of the Val158Met polymorphism of this gene might have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s. 

Schizophrenia

Another 2013 study also analyzes the effect of Val158Met polymorphism of COMT on schizophrenia. Accordingly, people with this polymorphism may have an increased risk of developing schizophrenia because of structural changes in the prefrontal cortex. 

Fibromyalgia 

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes overall muscle pain, mood changes, sleep disorders, and fatigue. According to a 2013 study, people with fibromyalgia had lower COMT enzyme activity than those without the condition. The study concludes that the Val158Met SNP of this gene may be associated with pain sensitivity in these patients. 

The COMT Gene And Personality Traits

People with COMT gene changes may be at a higher risk of developing specific personality traits mentioned below. 

1. Anxiety - People with specific COMT gene changes may be prone to anxiety and show signs of low extraversion and high neuroticism (a trait associated with anger, irritability, and emotional instability). 
2. High harm avoidance and low novelty seeking - A 2011 study associates men or people assigned male at birth (AMAB) with COMT polymorphism with high harm avoidance and low novelty seeking behaviors. 
3. High negative emotionality - Negative emotionality is associated with emotions like jealousy, moodiness, worry, and anxiety. A study associates specific COMT gene changes with higher levels of negative emotionality.
4. Aggression - According to studies, aggression may be high in people with slow COMT activity. When the COMT enzyme works slowly, there is an abnormal spike in neurotransmitters like dopamine, which could lead to aggressive behavior. 
5. Increased substance tolerance - People with specific COMT gene changes were studied to have higher levels of substance tolerance and a higher risk for developing alcohol or opioid addiction. Such individuals also showed a lesser motivation to change their addiction patterns. 

Nutritional Tips To Support COMT Gene Function

Slow COMT activity may lead to higher levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, and this can cause mood changes, irritability, anger, anxiety, and other mental disorders. 

Below are nutrients that support balanced COMT activity in the body.

• Magnesium
• Vitamin C
• B vitamins, especially vitamins B12 and B9

Some flavonoids like EGCG, quercetin, fisetin, and oleoresin need COMT to be processed in the body. 

Therefore, excess consumption of foods rich in these flavonoids may decrease COMT activity. 

Some people may have slower COMT activity than others. 

Genetic testing can help understand how a person’s COMT gene functions and changes in it, if any. 

This may help recognize COMT activity levels and plan nutritional changes to supplement it.

Besides a good diet, nutritional supplements can also help balance these levels and improve COMT activity in the brain. 

Talk to your doctor to know what supplements may work for you.

Summary

1. The Catechol-O-MethylTransferase gene (COMT gene) contains instructions for the production of the COMT enzyme. This enzyme is associated with cognitive functioning and mood changes.
2. Changes in the COMT gene may affect the amount of COMT enzyme in the brain and lead to behavioral disorders, anxiety, increased irritation and aggression, and an increased risk of Parkinson’s or schizophrenia. 
3. Nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin B12, other B vitamins, and folate can regulate COMT activity in the brain and prevent anxiety and other mental health disorders.
4. Genetic testing can help understand the COMT gene changes and COMT enzyme activity levels. This may help make the right dietary changes and ensure more specific and effective treatments. 

Reference

https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/comt/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/202001/what-is-the-comt-gene-and-how-does-it-affect-your-health

https://www.nature.com/articles/1300787

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4345409/

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00148/full

Depression, Genes, And Genetic Testing

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders worldwide. 

Thankfully, it is now possible to handle major depressive disorder and its related symptoms with medications and therapy. 

The medications prescribed for treating depression are called antidepressants. 

There are different classes of antidepressants available, depending on the drug composition and what they do to the body. 

While some people get better from the first day of using antidepressants, others are not so lucky. 

They may have to keep trying combinations of medicines before identifying ones that work well. 

It may take several months, even years, at times, to narrow down on drugs that work for the person.

Why do antidepressants that work for some have no effect on others? 

Genetic makeup could be an important reason why.

According to experts, a person’s genes can influence their response to treatment. 

Specific genes may change how a drug is metabolized in the body and, as a result, increase or decrease its effectiveness. 

In other words, your genes influence the type and exact dosage of antidepressants you may need to feel better. 

Your genes may also influence the risk of side effects from these drugs.

Genetic testing studies your genes and their functions to know how they work and identifies changes/mutations in your DNA, if any. 

Pharmacogenomics is the process of testing your genes to understand the body’s response to drugs. 

Pharmacogenomics is one of the growing branches of science that is of extreme interest globally.

Also Read: How Genes Affect Your Response To Drugs

Types Of Antidepressants 

Some of the popular antidepressants include:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are popular as they are better tolerated and have milder side effects. SSRIs also have relatively lesser adverse interactions with other drugs and work by increasing serotonin activity in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with mood regulation and better sleep.

Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

The functioning of this drug is very similar to SSRI, except that this drug acts upon two neurotransmitters - serotonin and noradrenaline. Noradrenaline triggers the fight-flight response in the body.

Noradrenaline And Specific Serotonergic Antidepressants (NASSAs)

NASSAs are prescribed if a person doesn’t react well to SSRIs and SNRIs. NASSAs may not cause sexual problems, a common side effect of the above two medications. 

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

TCAs were one of the first antidepressants introduced. These are not very commonly prescribed now because their overdose can turn fatal. In rare cases, people who don’t react to other antidepressants may be prescribed TCAs. 

Serotonin Antagonists and Reuptake Inhibitors (SARIs)

SARIs are also rarely used as primary treatments for depression. They are only prescribed in case other medications don’t work or in case of severe depressive disorder needing a combination of medicines. This drug is effective in treating insomnia and anxiety that are associated with depression. 

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

MAOIs primarily work by preventing the monoamine oxidase enzymes from breaking down neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. By doing this, the levels of these neurotransmitters increase in the brain, leading to a better mood. 

MAOIs may lead to severe side effects and are only prescribed if none of the other antidepressants work.

Image: How Do Antidepressants Work

Side Effects Of Antidepressants

All antidepressants come with side effects. The effect can be mild or severe, depending upon the dosage, the period of use, and the individual’s response to the drug. Some of the side effects common to all these types of antidepressants are:

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• nausea
• Weight gain
• Sexual problems
• Irregular heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Excessive sweating

Genetic Testing For Antidepressants

Without knowing for sure how the person’s body reacts to different antidepressants, the patient may have to waste time trying different combinations of medicines and dealing with their side effects. 

Genetic testing may offer insight into what medications could work and reduce the trial-and-error period. 

What Studies Tell

Genetic changes (mutations) cause genes to work differently in every individual, and these changes could do one or more of the following.

• Increase or decrease the rate of metabolism of the drug (causing changes in the duration and intensity of the drug working in the body)
• Increase or decrease the risk of developing side effects from the drug
• Makes the person non-responsive to the drug

Some of the popular genes that could cause these changes are CYP2D6, CYP2C19, SLC6A4, HTR2A, and ABCB1. 

While genetic testing can bring about better clarity in using the right drugs, please remember that the field is still growing. 

This means that pharmacogenomic testing may not be available for all antidepressants. 

Also, apart from genes, other factors could influence your response to a drug, including your age, lifestyle, medications, and health conditions. 

According to studies, it may be beneficial to opt for genetic testing when a person has shown low tolerance or has been non-responsive to at least one pharmacological treatment. 

Your doctor would be able to help you decide on this. 

Summary

1. A person’s genes may affect the way their body reacts to antidepressants. Pharmacogenomics is a field of study where genes are tested to understand the body’s response to drugs.
2. There are different types of antidepressants depending on their compositions and the way they react in the body.
3. Genetic testing may offer insight into what antidepressants could work for an individual and reduce the trial-and-error period. 
4. Some genes that could determine how the body reacts to antidepressants are CYP2D6, CYP2C19, SLC6A4, HTR2A, and ABCB1. 
5. Pharmacogenomics is a growing field of study and, over time, may help customize drugs and their dosages, so they work as intended for every person.

References

• https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/gene-testing-to-guide-antidepressant-treatment-has-its-time-arrived-2019100917964
• https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-genetic-testing-and-antidepressants/
• https://www.psycom.net/pharmacogenomics-definition
• https://www.pharmgkb.org/chemical/PA452229/variantAnnotation

Photographic memory is a rare and mysterious cognitive ability that allows people to remember images and objects in detail. 

It’s a rare phenomenon in which someone can retain an enormous quantity of information, whether it be images, sounds, or words.

Photographic memory was first documented by a Harvard vision scientist named Charles Stromeyer III in early 1970 about a student named Elizabeth.

Some believe that photographic memory is a real phenomenon, while others believe it’s just an exaggeration or myth. 

Regardless of whether photographic memory is real or not, there are many benefits to having it.

How Does Memory Work?

Why do we remember some things more distinctly than others? And why do some memories fade?

Answering these questions requires us to look into how memories are formed in the first place.

Our daily experiences are converted into pulses of energy that travel along the neuron network and form short-term memories first.

These are available for a few seconds or a few minutes.

They then get converted into long-term memories through certain brain areas like the hippocampus.

Finally, they reach the storage regions present in the brain.

With the help of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, neurons communicate with each other in regions called synapses.

Continuous communication between two neurons increases the efficiency, a process described as long-term potentiation.

This phenomenon helps store long-term memory.

Image: The differences between short-term and long-term memories (Adapted from an article on harvard.edu)

Why do some memories get lost?

As we age, the synapses become weak, making it difficult to retrieve information.

According to studies, the hippocampus loses 5% of its neurons every decade after age 40, resulting in a 20% loss by 80 years.

There may also be a loss of neurotransmitters.

Other mental and physical health conditions associated with aging can also be the reason memories get lost.

Chronic stress is another major contributor to memory issues.

The body releases a surge of hormones to enable us to wave through stressful situations.

However, with chronic stress, the body is continually exposed to this flood of hormones.

This may result in the loss of brain cells and block the formation of new ones, making it difficult to retain information.

Depression is another condition associated with memory problems.

The low levels of serotonin seen in individuals with depression can make it difficult for a person to pay attention to new information.

People with depression may be 40% more likely to develop memory and cognition-associated problems.

Is Photographic Memory Real?

The common impression of photographic memory is that some people can take a mental snapshot of whatever is in front of them and retrieve it from memory, zooming in and out of various parts. 

However, the true existence of photographic memory has not been proven till now.

What people mostly refer to as photographic memory is, in fact, eidetic memory.

Eidetic memory is “the ability to recall an image from memory with high precision for a brief period after seeing it only once, and without using a mnemonic device.”

This memory lasts less than one second is most people and a few seconds for others.

But, some people indeed have an extraordinary memory.

For instance, Stephen Wiltshire, a British architectural artist, flew over New York for 20 minutes and drew the entire skyline only from the memory of that sight.

Another example would be that of Jill Price, a woman now in her mid-50s, who can remember in great detail almost every aspect of her life from about 14 years of age.

She was the first to be diagnosed with hyperthymesia, also called highly superior autobiographical memory (HSAM), which allows people to remember almost all life events with great precision.

While such sporadic cases of people with extraordinary memory have been recorded, there’s been no case of photographic memory till now.

Genetics and Photographic Memory

Both nature and nurture contribute to incredible recall skills.

On the natural side of things, some people seemed to be predisposed to having an incredible memory.

In a neuroscience study, it was found that people with HSAM have enlarged temporal and parietal lobes, both of which are associated with memory storage and retrieval.

With regards to genetics, studies have shown that dopamine receptor genes play an important role in episodic memory

*Dopamine is a neurotransmitter linked with learning and memory

*Episodic memory is the ability to recall and mentally re-experience specific episodes from one's past.

People with certain changes in these genes may have a stronger recall power than others.

A 2015 study identified over 750 genes that can influence long-term memory

The newly found genes activate a molecule known as CREB (cAMP-response element-binding protein).

CREB is required for long-term memory in many organisms, including worms and mice.

There is a direct relationship between CREB and long-term memory; many organisms lose CREB as they age.

This way, many genes work together and influence how our memories and stored and recalled.

The “genetically advantaged” people receive a set of genes optimized for a great memory and recall powers.

However, this doesn’t imply that having a particular gene will give you great memories.

Memories also depend on other lifestyle and environmental factors like diet and educational attainment. 

Also Read: How Genes Influence Your Memory - Xcode Life

Summary

1. Photographic memory is a rare cognitive ability where people can remember and recall images and objects in detail. 
2. Memories from when our daily experiences are turned into energy pulses that reach the brain and travel to different regions through the neural network.
3. Memories get lost due to age, stress, and conditions like depression.
4. While there have been many reports of people with great memory and recall powers, there's no solid scientific evidence behind photographic memory.
5. Many genes associated with neurotransmitter levels and CREB molecules that influence memory and learning influence how well we can remember and recall information.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2596698/

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/644739

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eidetic_memory

Abstract

An individual’s height is many a time associated with health aspects. A good number of studies were carried out to understand if there could be any link between height and alleged health risks. A recent study by a group of researchers from Colorado’s Rocky Mountain medical center confirmed and added more density to those claims. Their study reported that a taller person could have a higher risk of diseases such as peripheral neuropathy or atrial fibrillation.

Being Tall Or Short: What Does It Mean For Your Health?

Height has been associated with health aspects in many past studies. 

There is research that talks about how a tall person is happier than a shorter person while a short person lives a longer life than a tall one. 

Other analyses have been carried out to understand the risk of diseases if you’re taller than average height. 

They included a person’s height as well as other environmental factors affecting it into account.

All such experiments and data are observed to create a more personalized assessment of one’s health. 

Researchers suggest that these data can help provide medical advice that is customized to the individual’s genetic makeup and tailor-make treatments. That said, more research needs to be carried out to convert this data into clinical care, says the team.

The Study: Height and Associated Disease Risk

The phenome-wide study was carried out majorly on the non-Hispanic American population. 

The phenome of an individual contains the visible traits - traits that are expressed. In this case, it is the measured height of the participants.

They collected data from the MVP- Million Veteran Program biobank. 

The study aimed to understand if a person’s height alone was associated with health risks, not including the environmental factors. 

The height of an individual is influenced by two factors – the genes they inherit and the environment they grow in. 

They recorded two sets of data, one with genetically-predicted height and the other with contributing environmental factors such as nutrition and economic conditions. 

The study tried to find associations to diseases such as coronary heart disease, fat levels, and a few cancers.

Details Of Metrics Observed 

• The number of participants was over 323,000, all military veterans. 
• Their average height was 176cm, and their age ranged between 55 and 62. 
• The participants were divided into three categories: Non-Hispanic White, Non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic-American. 
• This study picked 3290 different clinical traits and associated them with height. 
• They compared the genetically-predicted height of a person and the actual height of the person – to see which was linked to disease risk. 
• It was a randomized meta-analysis conducted based on multi-race population data.  

Study Observations 

• With the genetic and health information they collected from the MVP database, researchers analyzed 3290 height-related variants and their association with disease risk. 
• They found that 345 traits out of the total were linked to measured height in non-Hispanic white men and 362 traits in non-Hispanic black men. 
• Out of these, two were linked to genetically-predicted height in non-Hispanic black men and 127 in non-Hispanic white men. 
• They found that height had a decreasing risk of coronary heart disease, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia – broadly called the cardiovascular conditions and associations to varicose veins. 
• On the other hand, it had an increased risk for conditions like atrial fibrillation, peripheral neuropathy, and infections of the skin and bone.

What’s Your Genetic Risk for Atrial Fibrillation?

Answers to this and more in the Gene Health Report!

Study Conclusion

The study analyzed over 3000 clinical traits and checked for their correlation to height. 

They reported that height does have links to increased or protective disease association. 

A tall adult is more susceptible to suffering from peripheral neuropathy or infections of the skin and has lower chances of getting cardiovascular diseases. 

In women, they found a strong correlation between asthma and a few peripheral nerve conditions and height. 

However, researchers of this study suggested that more such studies were needed to translate this information into medical use.

Changing What Can Be Changed: Mitigating Your Health Risks

Your height may be out of your control. 

But, changing other aspects of your health isn’t. 

The health risks associated with height can be influenced by lifestyle habits which you can change in your favor. 

Although tall people are at higher risk for certain diseases, knowing this information can help you detect and avoid them early. 

You can make better food choices, sleep differently, and reduce alcohol intake or smoking. 

Advanced diagnosis of any disease can surely help to prevent them easily.

Summary

• A recent study released in the journal of PLOS genetics suggested that adult height can be related to certain health risks.
• A group of researchers from Rocky Mountain medical center in Colorado conducted a randomized study using data from the US Million Veteran Program biobank, a mega database containing information on genes, health, etc.
• They analyzed data on participants divided into three groups: Non-Hispanic whites, Non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic populations.
• The study confirmed the previous claims of height is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk and increased occurrence of atrial fibrillation. They also found novel associations with peripheral neuropathy and skin or bone infections.
• Knowing your health risks better in the early stages can help prevent them easily.

References

• https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1010193
• https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/06/220602140801.htm
• https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220605/Height-increases-risk-of-certain-diseases.aspx
• https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2022-06-03/your-height-could-be-a-factor-in-disease-risk
• https://www.healthline.com/health-news/how-your-height-affects-your-risk-of-disease
• https://www.bustle.com/articles/139509-what-does-your-height-say-about-your-health-here-are-5-ways-you-didnt-know-how

Causes and Risk Factors of Depression

While anyone can develop depression, some people are more likely to develop this condition due to the risk factors.

There is no single cause of depression, but several factors contribute to its development. 

Common risk factors include:

Genetics and Family History

Depression is found to be more common among women than men. 

However, as illustrated above, it doesn’t mean that only women are affected by depression.

Though less common, the consequences of depression are much more severe in men.

Having a first-degree relative with depression may increase your risk of developing the condition.

Twin, adoption, and family studies state that depression has a strong genetic component. 

However, how depression genes are passed to the next generation is still unclear.

Life Events

Sudden changes in life, such as the death or loss of a loved one, the birth of a child, job loss, retirement, etc., may trigger depression in some people.

Medications

Some medications have been linked to depression, such as:

• Sedatives
• Pain killers
• Steroids
• Sleeping pills
• Anti-epileptic pills

Other Illnesses

Changes in your physical health may impact your mental health. 

People struggling with other long-term illnesses like HIV, cancer, chronic liver disease, etc., may develop depression.

People with existing mental health conditions like anxiety are also at a higher risk of depression.

Trauma 

Experiencing mental, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or trauma may trigger depression.

Substance Abuse

Around 30% of people who abuse alcohol or drugs have depression.

A Sneak-peek Into the Gene Health Report

Depression: Genes or Environment?

Depression is in your genes and runs in families. 

Children of parents with depression have a high risk of developing the condition.

Though genetics plays an important role, their role is only partial. 

40% of depression risk is influenced by genetics, while the rest is due to environmental factors.

Depression occurs due to a complex interplay between genes and the environment, but researchers have not been able to find a single ‘depression gene.’

Genomewide association studies (GWAS) are currently underway to study depression.

Epigenetics, or the study of how and why some genetic codes are expressed as physical or emotional traits, is critical in understanding conditions like depression.

When Depression Runs in Families

There is no doubt that depression and depressive traits run in families.

A study published in December 2016 found that a child is 70% more likely to develop emotional or behavioral problems if the father shows signs of depression. 

This risk is higher if the mother is depressed.

11% of kids are depressed if the father is depressed, and 19% if the mother has the condition. 

Around 25% of kids are likely to be depressed if both parents are depressed.

Identifying your Depression Genetic Risk

A massive genome-wide association (GWAS) of genetic and health records has identified 178 gene variants associated with major depressive disorder, a condition that affects one in five people.

Genetic variations affect the nerve connections in parts of the brain that control behavior, personality, and decision-making. 

The higher the number of variations, the greater the risk of depression.

Inflammatory conditions in the brain cause release of anti-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. 

These cytokines act on the brain to contribute to depression. 

When the genes regulating cytokines are involved, they may cause an onset of depression.

You can opt for genetic testing if you feel you are at a high risk of developing depression due to your family history. 

Genetic testing may help:

• Identify the risk genes
• Understand the cause and mechanism behind the condition
• Guide your doctor to decide on the best course of treatment for your depression
  

Key Takeaway

If you have a first-degree relative with depression or showing depressive symptoms, it may be a good idea to seek consultation with your mental health provider.

Undergoing genetic counseling will help you understand your risk for depression and the best way to prevent it.

Understanding that people without genetic or familial history may also develop depression is essential. 

At the same time, it is not necessary that people with a risk of developing depression will develop it. 

References

• https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2017-04-14/does-depression-run-in-families
• https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/depression-when-its-all-in-the-family
• https://www.pamllc.us/post/does-depression-run-in-families-what-you-need-to-know-about-intergenerational-depression
• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/looking-at-my-genes
• https://www.news-medical.net/health/Genes-and-Depression.aspx
• https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/depression/

Depression is a serious mental condition that impacts how you feel and the way you think and act.

When left untreated, it can become very disabling, impairing all aspects of human function. 

Observational data suggest associations between lower serum vitamin D levels and a higher risk of late-life depression.

Further, lower vitamin D levels may influence the etiology of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Some research studies report that people with depression have lower vitamin D levels than those without depression.

But so far, no large-scale study has proven that supplementation with vitamin D or any other vitamin can cure depression.

How Is Vitamin D Produced In The Body?

During exposure to sunlight, the UV-B rays convert a chemical called 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin into previtamin D3.

Previtamin D3 then travels to the liver and picks up oxygen and hydrogen molecules to become 23-hydroxyvitamin D or 25(OH)D, the active form.

Even though it’s active, 25(OH)D cannot function till it reaches the kidney to acquire the final pair of oxygen and hydrogen.

This forms 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D/1,23(OH)2D or calcitriol.

How It Works

Calcium is an integral part of our skeletal system and crucial for bone health.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.

Without this vitamin, only 10-15% of dietary calcium is absorbed (compared to 30-40% with sufficient vitamin D levels).

Low vitamin D levels can increase the risk of fractures, osteoporosis, and other bone conditions. 

Recent studies have observed vitamin D receptors (proteins that bind to vitamin D) in several tissues in the body.

The vitamin D receptors are almost omnipresent from the prostate and heart to blood vessels, muscles, and glands. 

Research is still underway to find all the roles of vitamin D in the body.

Risk Factors for Vitamin D Deficiency

Image: Risk factors for Vitamin D Deficiency

Are Your Genes Preventing You From Getting Enough Vitamin D?

How Much Vitamin D Should I Take? The VDR Gene & Vitamin D Requirements

Vitamin D Deficiency and Depression

Numerous studies have reported an association between vitamin D deficiency and depression.

In particular, prenatal vitamin D deficiency has been connected with postpartum depression.

However, whether it is a causation or correlation relationship remains unclear.

What Does The Research Say?

A few small studies seemed to have observed improvements in depression symptoms upon vitamin D supplementation. 

A review of 14 studies involving 31,424 adults by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reported low vitamin D levels among those with depression.

However, the clinical trials couldn’t back up such findings.

In August 2020, a large study that observed the link between long-term vitamin D supplementation and depression was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

The trial included 18,353 participants 50 years and older.

None of them had depression or its symptoms at the beginning of the study.

The trial concluded no statistical difference in “the incidence and recurrence of depression or clinically relevant depressive symptoms” throughout the study in the participants who took vitamin D compared to those who took a placebo.

All these results suggest that the link between vitamin D and depression is a correlative relationship.

Those with depression may have low vitamin D levels, but it doesn’t mean the deficiency causes depression.

Possible Explanations

Lesser outdoor time

Severe forms of depression can make it very difficult to get out of bed.

Others may go to work but not participate in any outdoor activities.

Such social withdrawal results in lesser outdoor time and consequently lesser exposure to sunlight.

This can result in vitamin D deficiency.

Poor Diet

Some people with depression may lose appetite, putting them at risk of not eating a balanced diet. 

They may also not show much interest in looking for vitamin D-fortified foods.

This may increase the risk for vitamin D and other nutritional deficiencies.

Can Vitamin D Supplements Help Treat Depression?

Even though the jury is still out regarding vitamin D’s effect on depression, research has shown that it is involved in mood regulation.

This could’ve been derived from the observation that our brains have a widespread distribution of vitamin D.

While you can’t tell for sure that vitamin D supplements can treat or help avoid depression, they may help alleviate the symptoms.

It is important to consult a doctor and get a blood test (if required) before getting started on a vitamin D supplement. 

Both vitamin D2 and D3 work well as supplements.

D2 is derived from plants, while animal sources produce D3. 

It is important to understand that amping up your vitamin D is not a replacement for seeing a mental health care provider to help treat depression.

Summary

We obtain most of the vitamin D via UV-B rays from the sun. Certain food items provide vitamin D as well. Certain groups of the population (dark-skinned, older, living in the northern regions, obese) may be at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. Though a few small studies have linked vitamin D with depression, there’s still no clarity on whether there’s a causal relationship between the two. Vitamin D may not treat or prevent depression, but studies reveal that supplementation and sun exposure are effective ways to help regulate the mood.

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2908269/
• https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2768978
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6075634/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772204/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24698317/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29958055/
• https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/
• https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2768978
• Vitamin D Deficiency Due To Genetics: The VDR and GC Genes

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a condition that affects new mothers (or biological mothers) after childbirth. 

About 10–15% of adult mothers yearly are affected by it every year.

Symptoms can include feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and worthlessness and can last for weeks or months. 

It can make it very difficult for new mothers to care for their babies and lead to sleep, appetite, and mood problems.

The effects on children may include behavioral, developmental, socioemotional, and cognitive delay and may last years beyond infancy.

Studies suggest that individual susceptibility to the development of PPD is related to the presence or absence of certain genetic changes associated with PPD risk. 

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Change in Hormone Levels

Till now, hormones have been taught to be the biggest contributor to PPD. Estrogen and progesterone levels increase 10-fold during pregnancy. 

The dramatic drop in these hormone levels after childbirth can contribute to the symptoms of PPD.

The levels of thyroid hormones seem to play a role in PPD. 

They may also drop after giving birth, contributing to PPD. 

Lack of Sleep

Sleep deprivation and early-stage motherhood go hand-in-hand.

This accumulated fatigue can cause a dip in mood and energy. 

The symptoms of sleep deprivation and PPD have a lot of overlap that sometimes, it can be difficult to each other apart.

The relationship between sleep and PPD is a two-way street; each can aggravate the other.

According to a study, the risk of depression in women with poor sleep quality was 3.34 times higher than in those with good sleep quality.

Compared to mothers with temporary sleep disturbances, those who consistently report very poor or drastically decreasing sleep quality are more likely to develop PPD.

Other risk factors for PPD are:

• History of other mental conditions like bipolar disorder or depression
• Family history of mental health conditions
• History of pregnancy loss(es)
• Alcoholism
• Younger age during pregnancy (<20 years)
• Unplanned/unwanted pregnancy

Did You Know? Postpartum Depression Affects Dads, Too

Studies show that 1 in 10 dads suffer from PPD. 

Research describes certain hormonal changes in dads that promote their attachment to their newborns.

These may include decreased testosterone levels and increased estrogen, prolactin, and cortisol levels. 

The hormonal changes may also increase the risk of PPD in men. 

Other non-hormonal factors that are involved in PPD include:

• Partner’s depression: About half of the dads with depressed partners show signs of depression
• Provider pressure: The breadwinner/s tend to have an increased financial burden to provide for their newborns. This can cause undue stress and may lead to PPD.

Some signs of PPD in men are:

• Anger and aggression
• Low motivation
• Withdrawal from relationships
• Poor concentration

Genetics of Postpartum Depression

PPD was long thought to be due to the sudden drop in hormones following childbirth.

However, studies have reported nos significant differences in the hormone levels between depressed and non-depressed mothers.

But there’s a possibility that some may be more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations than others. 

A group of researchers from Johns Hopkins studied the epigenetic changes introduced in the hippocampus by estrogen.

*epigenetic changes are DNA modifications that turn a gene “on” or “off.”

*hippocampus is a part of the brain governing moods.

They identified the involvement of two genes, TTC9B and HP1B3, in hippocampal activity.

They may regulate the brain’s ability to recognize and adapt to new situations - the two key elements of mood.

Estrogen seems to behave as an antidepressant, supporting the activity of these genes. 

The researchers later replicated this experiment in 52 pregnant women with mood disorders.

They note that those with PPD had significant epigenetic changes in those genes that interact the most with estrogen.

This may make them more sensitive to the hormone’s effects.

TTC9B and HP1B3 genes, specifically, were highly correlated with PPD and predicted with 85% certainty about which women got PPD.

Summary

1. Postpartum Depression (PPD) affects 10-15%of mothers each year.
2. Possible causes include lack of sleep, change in hormone levels, history of mood disorders, alcoholism, and younger age.
3. 1 in 10 dads also experience PPD due to hormonal changes and provider pressure.
4. People with changes in certain genes that interact with estrogen may be at a higher risk for developing PPD than the others.

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941764/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5322694/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6659987/
4. https://utswmed.org/medblog/paternal-postpartum-depression/
5. https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/postpartum-depression
6. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/genetic_predictors_of_postpartum_depression_uncovered_by_johns_hopkins_researchers

Brain Chemicals And Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders all over the world. According to experts, one in five people worldwide will experience a major depressive disorder at least once in their lifetime. 

In 2020, 14.8 million U.S adults had at least one major depressive disorder that led to the inability to carry out everyday activities. 

The brain uses various chemicals to send and receive information. 

These chemical messengers are called neurotransmitters. 

When there is an imbalance in brain chemical levels, it could lead to multiple mental health problems, including depression. 

Roles Of Key Neurotransmitters In Depression

According to experts, imbalances in three primary monoamine neurotransmitters, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, can lead to depressive disorders. 

Monoamine neurotransmitters are those chemicals with a single amino group. 

These are mostly involved in processing emotions, memories, and arousals.

Here are the specific roles of these three neurotransmitters.

1. Dopamine influences your mood, help you stay happy and motivated, and is associated with reward-motivated behaviors.
2. Serotonin is associated with mood regulation and controls cognitive functions (the ability to think, pay attention, reason, and remember).
3. Norepinephrine helps people stay focused and vigilant and is associated with arousal, stress, and anxiety.

A study reported that depression is a combination of two events - loss of a favorable condition and the presence of an adverse situation. 

Imbalances in these neurotransmitters can cause a combination of both these events, eventually leading to depression. 

A Sneak-peek Into the Gene Health Report

What Causes Imbalance In Neurotransmitters?

Several reasons can cause imbalances in neurotransmitters. Some common ones include:

Genetics

Genetically, some people may have increased levels of Monoamine Oxidase A (MOA) in the body. 

MOA is an enzyme controlled by the MAOA gene. 

Higher levels of MOA break down the neurotransmitters and lead to deficient levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine in the body.

Nutritional Deficiencies

There are many nutrients needed for producing and regulating neurotransmitters in the body. 

Some of them include:

• B-vitamins
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Amino acids
• Zinc
• Iron
• Omega-3 fatty acids 

Nutritional deficiencies can hence reduce the levels of neurotransmitters in the body, leading to imbalances.

Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle choices could be another common reason people have serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine imbalances. 

For instance, chronic sleep deprivation may cause lower serotonin levels, leading to mental health conditions like depression. 

Obesity and excessive consumption of sugar are both associated with dopamine deficiency. 

Lack of physical activity is also associated with neurotransmitter imbalances. 

Environmental Causes

Some studies suggest that drug abuse during early developmental periods or psychological stress can act as environmental factors, affecting neurotransmitter levels in the body. 

Air pollutants may affect neurotransmitter levels in the body, especially serotonin and dopamine. 

A study that analyzed suicidal trends in adolescents concluded that suicidal rates were highest when the pollen counts were high. 

Image: Causes of Neurotransmitter Imbalance

Rectifying Neurotransmitter Imbalance To Treat Depression

Nutritional Balance

Get your vitamin and mineral levels checked, and talk to your doctor about supplementing on nutrients that your body may need. Build your diet plan to include all the micro and macronutrients and choose fresher, healthier ingredients to cook with. 

Mind-Body Therapies

A 2015 study suggests that mind-body therapies like yoga and meditation may help handle neurotransmitter imbalances and, as a result, help combat issues like anxiety and depression. 

Stress could cause neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain; mind-body therapies can reduce stress and relax the nervous system. 

Sleep Hygiene

Studies claim that lack of sleep alters neurotransmitter functions in the brain and leads to changes in the production of chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. 

Make sure you sleep at least 7-8 hours a day in a comfortable, dark space that allows the secretion of these chemicals. 

If you have problems sleeping well, consult your doctor and get help. 

The Right Amount Of Exercise

Exercising helps release neurotransmitters like dopamine and endorphin. 

Exercise also seems to help get better oxygen supply to the brain, allowing the neurons to transmit and receive signals better. 

Exercise is a stress reliever, which may help handle norepinephrine imbalances.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing may tell you if you are genetically prone to developing neurotransmitter imbalances, thereby having a higher risk for mental health conditions like depression. 

Your doctor may be able to help with preventive therapies and solutions to handle the situation, if so. 

Get Professional Help

If you think you show signs of depression, then the first thing to do is get professional help. 

References

• https://www.verywellmind.com/the-chemistry-of-depression-1065137
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18494537/
• https://www.mentalhelp.net/depression/biology-of-depression-neurotransmitters/
• https://www.jax.org/news-and-insights/jax-blog/2015/december/happy-or-sad-the-chemistry-behind-depression
• https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/depression.htm
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2630359/