Posted by Alice on February 11, 2000, at 2:22:36
In reply to Test for defective gene linked to depression, posted by Sef on February 10, 2000, at 18:05:17
> Does anyone know if there is a genetic test for depression? Out of 6 kids, me and two of my siblings have clinical depression. Is there any way we can find out if we have a defective gene?
Sef, I saw a show the other night on The Learning Channel that was very interesting. I hope I will be able to explain this right....maybe someone else will know about it, and be able to expand upon my mediocrity! Anyhow, it seems that scientists have actually located the gene that is responsible for "happiness" is people. For the depressed person, the gene appears shorter than in others. According to this program, it is as if those with the longer version of this gene are born with their own life-time supply of "Prozac" built into their heads! Fascinating, huh? However, I do not know if doctors are yet testing their patients to see is they have the shorter, more depression prone gene.
poster:Alice
thread:21036
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000209/msgs/21100.html