(February 4, 2008 - Insidermedicine) Genetic makeup interacts with childhood trauma to help determine the risk for developing depression in adulthood, according to a study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Here is some information about depression and genetics:

•    Several studies looking at the risk of depression among family members and twins have suggested that there is a genetic component to the risk of developing depression.

•    It is important to remember, however, that having a genetic susceptibility to depression does not mean you will develop it. Several elements, including environmental, social, behavioral, and cultural factors interact to influence whether a person will become depressed.

•    Identifying individuals who are at high risk for depression based on their genetic makeup can help determine who needs help to prevent the disease, or at least treat it early on.

Researchers from Emory University in Atlanta looked for the presence of any of 15 small variations in a gene known as CRHR1 among over 600 adults, about two-thirds of whom had grown up disadvantaged. The CRHR1 gene was chosen because it affects a hormone believed to be involved in depression. The researchers also determined whether the participants had experienced abuse during childhood and depression during adulthood.

Individuals carrying certain variations of the CRHR1 gene were less likely to become depressed during adulthood after suffering abuse during childhood. This was true in both the disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged groups.

Today's research highlights how analyzing an individual's specific genetic makeup may, at some point in the future, help determine how much this person is at risk for developing depression, particularly following a traumatic period.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.