- 16 genetic variants found in females, eight in males with major depressive disorder.
- A novel X-chromosome variant near IL1RAPL1 identified in males.
- Females show higher heritability and broader polygenicity for depression.
- Stronger genetic overlap in females with BMI, metabolic syndrome, and ADHD.
- Most genetic variants are shared but differ in effect size between sexes.
- Findings support sex-specific genetic approaches to depression research.
Source: Nature Communications