Psychiatric disorders share common genes

A major international study published in Nature proposes that many psychiatric disorders, previously categorized separately, share common genetic underpinnings. Researchers analyzed data from over 1 million individuals diagnosed with 14 psychiatric conditions, identifying five essential genetic categories. These findings suggest a biological relationship between conditions like depression, anxiety, autism, and schizophrenia, which could revolutionize treatment approaches.

The research highlights genetic similarities, particularly between bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, which share approximately 70 percent of the same genetic drivers. This biological insight could explain why certain treatments are effective across different diagnoses. Scientists identified 238 genetic variants linked to these disorders, with a notable cluster on Chromosome 11 implicated in eight of the conditions.

While experts anticipate significant changes in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment, including potential revisions to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, practical applications are still developing. The study's authors acknowledge limitations, particularly the predominance of European ancestry in genetic datasets, and are working to expand diversity for a more comprehensive understanding of mental illness biology.