A Monash University study shows genetic testing can predict late-life depression risk, opening doors for earlier intervention and tailored treatment.
A world-first study has revealed that genetic testing may help predict the risk of depression in older adults, offering new opportunities for early intervention. Researchers from Monash University in Australia analyzed data from more than 12,000 people aged over 70 and found that a person’s genetic score could indicate their likelihood of developing late-life depression.
The study, published from the ASPREE trial, showed that polygenic scores—calculations based on thousands of genetic variants—were strongly linked to depression outcomes and antidepressant use. “Our original hypothesis was that genetics would have a minor or even negligible role in depression risk when people are at that age,” said study author Professor Paul Lacaze. “But to our surprise, we found that the genomic risk score still performs very well in people above the age of 70.”
Researchers noted that while environmental and social factors remain influential, genetic predisposition continues to play a meaningful role. They suggested the findings could pave the way for tailored treatments and earlier recognition.
Lacaze added that diversity in genetic datasets must be expanded beyond Europeans and that more research is needed to determine when and how such predictions could be applied in clinical practice.