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Anxiety disorders: genetic mechanisms

  • Review article
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e-Neuroforum

Abstract

The pathogenesis of anxiety disorders is multifactorial with an interaction between genetic (heritability estimates: 32 %–67 %) and numerous environmental factors. Various chromosomal risk loci and potential risk-increasing genetic variants have already been identified, with particular support for the neuropeptide S receptor gene (NPSR1) as a promising novel candidate. Gene–environment interaction and epigenetic studies provide evidence that genetic and psychosocial factors interactively influence the risk of anxiety disorders. Intermediate phenotypes of anxiety such as neural activation patterns or the startle reflex have been shown to be partly driven by genetic variants. Initial therapy-genetic studies have revealed a genetic influence on pharmaco- and psychotherapeutic interventions in anxiety disorders. Genetic research in anxiety disorders, while presently of no diagnostic or predictive value yet, might contribute to the development of innovative and individually tailored therapeutic approaches.

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The corresponding author states that there are no conflicts of interest.

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  1. Department of Psychiatry, University of Wuerzburg, Fuechsleinstr. 15, 97080, Wuerzburg, Germany

    K. Domschke M.A. (USA)

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Correspondence to K. Domschke M.A. (USA).

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Domschke, K. Anxiety disorders: genetic mechanisms. e-Neuroforum 4, 71–78 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13295-013-0044-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13295-013-0044-2

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