Study identifies 19 genes linked to depression and anxiety under RBFOX1 control

A study led by the University of Barcelona has identified 19 genes that may increase susceptibility to depression, anxiety, irritability, and neuroticism, all regulated by the gene RBFOX1, which acts as a central hub in a genetic network influencing brain function. Published in Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, the research integrates data from genome-wide association studies, brain gene expression prediction, molecular network analysis, and rare disease studies Source: infobae, elconfidencial, diariolibree.

Key genes

Researchers highlighted RBFOX1 as a master regulator, alongside three other genes—SP4, TCF4, and PAX6—that also control expression of other genes, as well as CADM2. These genes have been linked to other conditions: RBFOX1 to various psychiatric disorders, CADM2 to addictions, TCF4 to schizophrenia and insomnia, and SP4 and PAX6 to stress in animal models Source: diariolibree, elconfidencial.

Implications and next steps

According to the researchers, the overlap in genetic mechanisms may explain why these disorders often co-occur. They propose that targeting shared pathways could lead to personalized biomarkers and treatments Source: infobae. However, they emphasize the need for validation in larger samples and exploration of sex differences, given the higher prevalence of depression in women Source: diariolibree.