Genes and suicidality

Recent data confirm that relatives of suicide victims have higher risk of suicide. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to this risk. On the first level of determination carrying of genetic variants which predispose to certain traits (aggression, depression, impulsivity, neuroticism, stress-vulnerability, etc.) is important. On the second level of determination early stages of development paly its role. Early life adversities may become the reason for establishment of stress-related epigenetic markers in the genome which results in the “vulnerable phenotype” development. On the third level of determination the behavioral mechanism lead an individual into series of stressful life situations due to active genes-environment covariation. This may result in stereotypic reactivity style and acquired capability to overcome fear of pain and possible death. Genetic predispositions in the families are transmitted from generation to generation together with environmental risks which forms a series of interrelated events and behavioral links.