This means that genetic differences between individuals play a significant role in their susceptibility to depressive symptoms.
Huider also confirms that depression is polygenic: not a single gene determines the risk, but rather hundreds of small genetic influences working together. These can be summarized in what is known as a polygenic risk score, which may in the future help better predict an individual’s vulnerability to depression.
Two new genes discovered
In collaboration with a large Dutch research consortium, Huider also discovered two new genes that influence the risk of depression. In addition, the team identified ten epigenetic sites associated with the use of antidepressants. This discovery provides new insight into how these medications work at the molecular level.
Together, the results underscore that depression is a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biology, and environment. According to Huider, the findings bring science a step closer to understanding the biological processes underlying depression — knowledge that is crucial for developing more effective treatment methods.
“Although depression is common, we still know little about its underlying biology,” says Huider. “By unraveling genetic and epigenetic connections, we gain a clearer picture of why some people are more vulnerable than others. That helps us target treatments more precisely in the future.”
Better understanding of the genetic architecture of depression
In the short term, the research contributes to a better understanding of the genetic architecture of depression; in the long term, it may form the basis for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Huider’s work thus aligns with the broader effort to improve understanding of mental health and bridge the gap between science and clinical care.
The study originated from the need to understand why depression often recurs and why current treatments are not always effective. By combining classical twin studies with modern DNA and epigenetic analyses, Huider demonstrates how genetic vulnerability and environmental influences together shape the course of depression — a step toward more personalized mental health care.