Study Finds Gene Links for 5 Mental Disorders

Five mental health disorders may be more alike than they seem — at a genetic level. That’s the conclusion of a study published February 28. Researchers from 19 countries took part. Together, they analyzed the genomes — the total genetic code — of more than 61,000 people. Some of them had autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression or schizophrenia. Others did not have any of these conditions. Variations in 4 areas of the genetic code were linked to all 5 disorders. Researchers cited 2 specific genes as a special concern. These genes regulate the flow of calcium in brain cells. This is a key part of how neurons signal each other. Researchers suggested that changes in genes could be one way that people become more vulnerable to these disorders. Usually, more than one change would have to occur for someone to develop a condition, they said.