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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 7 of 7. This is the beginning of the thread.
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?
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.
Posted by Noa on February 11, 2000, at 5:23:51
In reply to Re: Test for defective gene linked to depression, posted by Alice on February 11, 2000, at 2:22:36
I suspect, tho, that if a gene is identified, it will account for SOME and not all cases of depression, just like in breast cancer.
Posted by Sef on February 11, 2000, at 13:21:55
In reply to Re: Test for defective gene linked to depression, posted by Alice on February 11, 2000, at 2:22:36
Thanks for the info, it is very interesting. I will have to mention it to my pdoc and MD to see if they have heard anything about that gene.
Posted by Alice on February 12, 2000, at 3:38:02
In reply to Re: Test for defective gene linked to depression, posted by Noa on February 11, 2000, at 5:23:51
> I suspect, tho, that if a gene is identified, it will account for SOME and not all cases of depression, just like in breast cancer.
I think you're right! Not everyone with depression has a family history of it.
Posted by Morc on February 15, 2000, at 14:10:38
In reply to Re: Test for defective gene linked to depression, posted by Alice on February 12, 2000, at 3:38:02
Sounds positively Fascinating. Do you remember the name of the program, or when it was on? I can look at their website for repeat information.
Posted by Alice! on February 15, 2000, at 19:03:21
In reply to Alice--a question, posted by Morc on February 15, 2000, at 14:10:38
>
> Sounds positively Fascinating. Do you remember the name of the program, or when it was on? I can look at their website for repeat information.
Hey Morc, it was on The Learning Channel. I don't remember the exact name of the show, really wish I could help you out more! I have a horrible memory...(perhaps due to the Topomax dosage I am on, plus I fear I am just a dumb blonde to begin with ! *LOL*) If I hear it will be on again, I will post it in here. It seemed like a really cool & informative show, problem is, the way I reported the info probably really sucked!!! Oh yeah, check this site out...http://tlc.discovery.com/
maybe you'll find something worthwhile!!! Good-luck and hope you are doing & feeling well lately!!!! :)
This is the end of the thread.
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