Recent clinical and preclinical studies, using genetic screening and transgenic rodents, respectively, suggest a major role of the CRF1 gene, and the central expression of CRF1 receptor protein in determining an individual's risk of developing MDD.
As a major mediator of the stress response, corticotropin-releasing-hormone receptor 1 (CRHR1) has been demonstrated to be an important contributor to the pathogenesis of MDD.
The aim of this study is to examine the single and combined effects of CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1) and BDNF genes in recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD).