Do polygenic scores show effects on child depressive symptoms during adolescence?
Polygenic scores are a way to measure a person's genetic risk for a trait or condition by summing the effects of many small genetic variations. Research shows that these scores can predict depressive symptoms in adolescents, with some effects emerging specifically during the teenage years. A study from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort (MoBa) found that children's own polygenic scores for major depressive disorder (MDD) had effects on depressive symptoms that were unique to adolescence, beyond stable effects seen across childhood 2. Other studies also support that polygenic risk for depression is linked to depressive symptoms in adolescents and adults 1011.
What the research says
A 2024 study using data from the Norwegian MoBa cohort examined how polygenic scores for MDD, ADHD, anxiety, and educational attainment relate to depressive symptoms in children at ages 8 and 14. The researchers found that children's own MDD polygenic scores showed adolescence-specific effects on depressive symptoms, meaning the genetic influence became stronger or more apparent during the teenage years 2. They also found developmentally-stable direct effects from children's polygenic scores for MDD, ADHD, and educational attainment, indicating that some genetic influences on depressive symptoms are present from childhood 2.
Other studies support the link between polygenic risk and depressive symptoms in adolescents. A three-year cohort study of Chinese adolescents aged 10-14 found that polygenic risk scores for depressive symptoms were a risk factor for developing depressive symptoms, and that resilience could help reduce this risk 10. Research in adults also shows that polygenic scores for depression are associated with depressive symptoms, with effects mediated by life experiences like incarceration 11.
It is important to note that polygenic scores are not deterministic. They reflect genetic predisposition, but environmental factors, life events, and personal resilience also play major roles in whether someone develops depressive symptoms 1011. The MoBa study specifically accounted for both direct genetic effects and indirect effects from parents, providing a clearer picture of how genes influence depression during adolescence 2.
What to ask your doctor
- What do polygenic scores mean for my child's risk of depression?
- How should I interpret genetic risk information alongside other factors like family history and environment?
- Are there any interventions or supports that can help reduce the impact of genetic risk for depression in adolescents?
- Should I consider genetic testing for my child, and what are the limitations?
- How can I monitor my child's mental health during adolescence, given their genetic risk?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about this topic and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.