'Gene map for depression' sparks hopes of new generation of treatments

A 200-strong team of researchers from across the globe have mapped the genetic variants that increase the risk of depression

Scientists have raised hopes for more effective treatments for depression, a condition that affects over 300 million people globally, after mapping out the genetic foundations of the mental disorder in unprecedented detail.

In the world's largest investigation into the impact of DNA on the mental disorder, more than 200 researchers identified 44 gene variants that raise the risk of depression. Of those, 30 have never been connected to the condition before.