Elucidating the genetic basis of social interaction and isolation

TitleElucidating the genetic basis of social interaction and isolation
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2018
AuthorsDay, FR, Ong, KK, Perry, JRB
JournalNature Communications
Volume9
Issue1
Pagination1-6
KeywordsDepressive symptoms, Genetics, Social Factors, Social Support
Abstract

The negative impacts of social isolation and loneliness on health are well documented. However, little is known about their possible biological determinants. In up to 452,302 UK Biobank study participants, we perform genome-wide association study analyses for loneliness and regular participation in social activities. We identify 15 genomic loci (P < 5 × 10−8) for loneliness, and demonstrate a likely causal association between adiposity and increased susceptibility to loneliness and depressive symptoms. Further loci were identified for regular attendance at a sports club or gym (N = 6 loci), pub or social club (N = 13) or religious group (N = 18). Across these traits there was strong enrichment for genes expressed in brain regions that control emotional expression and behaviour. We demonstrate aetiological mechanisms specific to each trait, in addition to identifying loci that are pleiotropic across multiple complex traits. Further study of these traits may identify novel modifiable risk factors associated with social withdrawal and isolation.

URLhttp://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1http://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1.pdfhttp://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1.pdfhttp://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1
DOI10.1038/s41467-018-04930-1
Short TitleNat Commun
Citation Key9785