Researchers at Quebec's Douglas Institute Research Center have managed to isolate a gene that leaves teenagers highly vulnerable to psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, depression and addiction.
Known as DCC, the gene is responsible for dopamine connectivity in the medial prefrontal cortex during adolescence and the researchers found that a dysfunction of the gene during teenage years can lead to behavioral consequences in adulthood.
Genetic Testing of Diseases
Genetic testing helps to confirm a genetic condition in an individual and involves q complex laboratory techniques
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"We know that the DCC gene may be modified by the experiences of adolescence. That gives us a hope that therapy, including social support, may alter the functioning of the DCC gene during this critical phase and, perhaps, reduce vulnerability to [mental health] diseases", lead researcher Cecilia Flores said.
Source: Medindia
Epigenetics
In the recent years 'epigenetics' represents inheritable changes in gene expression that do not include DNA alterations.
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 Adolescent DepressionAdolescent depression is an ailment that occurs during the teenage characterized by persistent melancholy, disappointment and loss of self-esteem. | Advertisement
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