14 DAY TRIAL // The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene was recently linked to a higher chance of suicide in patients suffering from a variety of mental health issues. Those who were diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder and exhibited the BDNF mutation were more likely to kill themselves.
The fact that genetics is involved in suicide has been hinted at in previous studies, but the new work is the first to provide a clear-cut correlation between suicidal behavior and a genetic anomaly. What is interesting to note here is that BDNF plays a critical core in early nervous system development.
In the near future, suicide prevention efforts may be based on data collected during this investigation. With the new information in mind, experts may find it easier to go to the root of the problem in mental health patients, therefore eliminating a huge risk factor for suicide.
During this investigation, researchers surveyed the cases of 3,352 individuals, of whom 1,202 had already been through suicide attempts, and displayed suicidal behavior. Experts selected this group due to its relevance for the topics being discussed.
Details of the investigation were published in the latest issue of the esteemed International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology. “Our findings may lead to the testing and development of treatments that target this gene in order to help prevent suicide,” Dr. James Kennedy reports.
The expert – who was a researcher on the new study – holds an appointment as the director of the Center for Addiction and Mental Health Neuroscience Research Department, PsychCentral reports.
“In the future, if other researchers can replicate and extend our findings, then genetic testing may be possible to help identify people at increased risk for suicide,” the expert goes on to say. Dr. Kennedy believes that a chemical compound could be synthesized to boost BDNF functioning.
“Our findings provide a small piece of the puzzle on what causes suicidal behavior. When assessing a person’s suicide risk, it’s also important to consider environmental risk factors, such as early childhood or recent trauma, the use of addictive drugs or medications and other factors,” Dr. Kennedy adds.
He goes on to explain that most test subjects involved in the new survey had previously been diagnosed with mental health disorders including schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder or general mood disorders, among others.
Officials statistics show that more than 90 percent of all suicide cases occur in individuals who suffer from such a condition, which is why the experts decided to include them in the investigation.