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Is Panic Disorder Genetic?
- Heritability
- ~48%
- Inheritance
- polygenic
- Key genes
- COMT BDNF NTRK3
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Recurrent unexpected panic attacks with heritability of ~48%. Serotonin system and HPA axis genes are implicated.
How Genetic Is Panic Disorder?
Panic Disorder involves complex interactions between multiple genes and environmental factors. Heritability estimates range up to 48%, though no single gene determines outcome on its own.
Key genes associated with Panic Disorder: COMT BDNF NTRK3. Variants in these genes have been identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and clinical research as influencing susceptibility or severity.
Source: NIH
Does Family History Matter for Panic Disorder?
Family history can be informative for Panic Disorder, but its predictive power is limited because many genes — each with small effects — combine with environmental influences. A family history of the condition may prompt earlier or more frequent screening.
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