Gene-Environment Interactions in Psychiatry: Recent Evidence and Clinical Implications

Abstract

Purpose of Review-We identify the recent evidence for gene-by-environment interaction studies in relation to psychiatric disorders. We focus on the key genotypic data as well as environmental exposures and how they interact to predict psychiatric disorders and psychiatric symptomatology. We direct our focus on the psychiatric outcomes that were focused on by the Psychiatric Genetics Consortium. Recent Findings-Many of the studies focus on candidate gene approaches, with most of the studies drawing upon previous literature to decide the genes of interest. Other studies used a genome-wide approach. While some studies demonstrated positive replication of previous findings, replication is still an issue within gene-by-environment interaction studies. Summary-Gene-by-environment interaction research in psychiatry globally suggests some susceptibility to environmental exposures based on genotype; however, greater clarity is needed around the idea that genetic risk may not be disorder specific.

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) revisited – a review-update on common grounds and subtle distinctions

“…GxE-interactions are thought to be important factors in the development of symptom-expression in both BPD and ADHD. In general, individuals with a particular genotype are at risk to develop more severe symptoms in the presence of environmental adversity of any sort [ 41 , 42 ].…”

Isoform-specific roles for AKT in affective behavior, spatial memory, and extinction related to psychiatric disorders

“…Psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder (MDD), and anxiety, are important public health burdens with large societal and economic costs ( Wittchen et al, 2011 ; Vigo et al, 2016 ). Genetics is known to play a significant role in the manifestation of psychiatric illnesses ( Sullivan et al, 2003 ; Schumacher et al, 2011 ; Musci et al, 2019 ). Numerous studies in humans and experimental model systems have identified genetic variations that can promote abnormal neural function underlying the occurrence of these disorders ( Renoir, 2014 ).…”

Extending the vulnerability–stress model of mental disorders: three-dimensional NPSR1 × environment × coping interaction study in anxiety

“…Mental disorders are characterised by a complex-genetic aetiology, where – assuming the traditional ‘vulnerability–stress model’ – biological factors interact with negative environmental influences to shape the risk towards the respective disorder. 1 Translating this concept to current methodology, research focusing on gene–environment (G × E) interactions has paid much attention to the interactive detrimental effects of genetic risk factors and environmental adversity (for review see, for example, Musci et al 2 ). The ability to successfully cope in the face of adversity, i.e.…”