Nutritional Genomics: The Use of Personalized Diets for Managing Depression
Ewaoluwa Promise Owoyemi
Human Anatomy Department, Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Kernen Paul Agwaza
Department of Biochemistry, University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Ogbonna Kosisochukwu Doris
Global Health and Infectious Diseases Control Institute, Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nigeria.
Donatus Chigozie Egwuatu
Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Rachael Olakunmi Ogunye
Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Peter Chidendu Anene
Department of Chemical Engineering, Lagos State University, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Eberechukwu Osinachi Azubuike
Department of Microbiology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.
Jane-Frances Chinenye Ojobor
Department of Biological Science, Benue State University, Markurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
David Odanibeh
Department of Biotechnology, University of the West of Scotland, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Oluwabusola Oluwakorede Asenuga
Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Chibuzo Valentine Nwokafor *
Department of Microbiology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria and Department of Biotechnology, University of the West of Scotland, Scotland, United Kingdom.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Millions worldwide suffer from major depression, and recent studies have highlighted the effect of diet on mental health. However, research using nutritional genomics to create personalized diets for managing depression is still limited. This review explores the role of nutritional genomics in developing personalized dietary strategies for depression, focusing on key genetic markers. A comprehensive review of current literature, with a focus on studies that analyze the interplay between specific genes, nutrient intake, and depression was carried out. Databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were searched using keywords like “nutritional genomics,” “personalized diets,” and “depression.” Relevant articles were also selected based on their contribution to how genetic variations affect dietary components linked to mental health. We identified several genetic markers such as SLC6A4 and BDNF that may influence how individuals with depression respond to specific nutrients, such as vitamin D, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids. These markers include variations in genes related to neurotransmitter pathways, inflammation, and neuroplasticity. This review highlights the potential of nutritional genomics as a tool for creating more individualized dietary plans for managing depression. With the use of genetic insights into dietary recommendations, healthcare providers could offer more targeted interventions.
Keywords: Nutritional genomics, personalized diets, depression, mental health, genetic markers