A specific type of RNA (lncRNA) called Fedora1 may be linked to why twice as many women are diagnosed with chronic depression as men. Previous research has confirmed that the purpose of RNA is to help genes make proteins. lncRNA have been found to interact with RNA, certain proteins, and DNA to effect other types of gene expression that are not well understood. The researchers compared the levels of the specific RNA in women versus men. They focus on both those who have been diagnosed with chronic depression and those who have not. Differences in people prescribed ketamine as a therapeutic agent were also examined. The highest levels of Fedora were found in female patients known to have suffered from chronic depression. Lower levels were found for female patients taking ketamine. At higher levels of lncRNA expression, more symptoms of anxiety and depression appear. The researchers suggest that the differences are due to gender differences rather than hormone levels. Depression2 is a common disease, and according to data from the World Health Organization, about 3.8% of the world’s population is affected. An estimated 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression. It is different from the usual mood swings and short-term emotional reactions to everyday challenges. Especially when repeated with moderate or severe intensity, depression can become a serious health condition. It brings suffering and dysfunction in schools, at work or at home. At its worst, depression becomes life-threatening. Although there are known effective treatments for mental disorders, more than 75% of people in low- and middle-income countries do not receive therapy. Barriers to effective care include lack of resources, lack of trained health care providers, and social stigma associated with mental disorders. In countries of all income levels, people who experience depression are often misdiagnosed, and others who do not have the condition are too often misdiagnosed and prescribed antidepressants. References: 1. Yirka, Bob. Discovery might explain why women are more likely to be diagnosed with clinical depression than men. Medical Xpress – https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-12-discovery-women-clinical-depression-men.html 2. Depression. WHO – https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression