Investigating a novel approach to gene-environment interaction in depression and anxiety (360G-Wellcome-208881_Z_17_Z)

Psychosocial adversity increases the risk of depression and anxiety. However, only a minority of those exposed develop mental illnesses. It has been hypothesised that genetic factors make individuals more or less sensitive to environmental influences. The identification of these genes has a clear potential for impact on health by providing insight into the biological mechanisms of risk and resilience and allowing preventions and interventions to be targeted at the most vulnerable. Nevertheless, capturing environmental sensitivity genes remains a significant challenge. We recently successfully piloted a novel approach to this problem using identical twins. We aim to build on this work by establishing the Genetics of Sensitivity to the Environment Consortium bringing together the world’s twins with genetic data. This will allow us to: Replicate and refine our findings from the pilot study Investigate environmental sensitivity genes across disorders and ages Estimate the heritability of sensitivity to environmental influences This project will lead to a larger programme of research focusing on the mechanisms underlying genetic sensitivity to the environment in the development and treatment of mental illness. In addition, we will develop our consortium to establish a new resource for researchers combining twin designs with genetic data.