The overall goal is to identify the human genes that predispose individuals to depression. However, more work needs to be done in terms of identifying which genes are involved and how they are involved in depression. One aspect of this study is to create a national repository of information about the genetic characteristics of families with more than one member who has had depression. This information, collected from as many as 800 families nationwide, could eventually lead to earlier detection and improved treatments for depression, Crowe added. Study participants will be interviewed by UI researchers and will be asked to provide a blood sample.
Compensation is available.
The UI study is part of a larger, national project aimed at identifying the genetic makeup of depression.