4 Genes That Increase Suicide Risk

Over 700,000 people die each year by suicide. It is the 4th leading cause of death for those between ages 15 and 29. In an effort to prevent these tragedies, a group of researchers studied genetics as a potential cause.

Duke Health in conjunction with the Durham Veteran's Association studied 633,778 U.S. military veterans. Within this group there were 121,211 cases of suicidal thoughts or actions documented in their medical records.

The control group used for this study was anyone from the group who had no documented history of self-harm behaviors.

The Duke researches completed a genome-wide analysis of blood samples from all participants. The analysis showed numerous genes more commonly evident among those with documented suicidal thoughts or actions. This association was regardless of ancestral background.

Four genes had the strongest association with suicidal thoughts or actions, and all have been previously associated with psychiatric conditions as well:

ESR1: This estrogen receptor had been identified as a causal genetic driver of PTSD and depression, both of which are risk factors for suicide. Low ESR1 has shown effects on brain tissue in men and is suspected as a cause for varying depression rates between men and women.

DRD2: This is a dopamine receptor which has been associated with suicide, schizophrenia, mood disorders, ADHD and other disorders and addictions.

DCC: Multiple psychiatric conditions are associated with elevated levels of this gene found in brain tissue. Those who die by suicide have been found to have high DCC levels.

TRAF3: This gene is often associated with antisocial behavior, substance use and ADHD. Bipolar disorder is often treated by modulating the expression TRAF3 and other inflammatory genes.

Note that genetics do not predispose anyone to life circumstances which could lead to suicide. Rather, knowing a predisposition to disorders could help people take additional precautious when adversity arises.

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