The role of rs242941, rs1876828, rs242939 and rs110402 polymorphisms of CRHR1 gene and the depression: systematic review and meta-analysis

Several studies have evaluated the possible association between polymorphisms or variants in Corticotropin-releasing hormone 1 receptor gene (CRHR1) with depression; however, results remain contradictory and heterogeneous. To our knowledge, we conducted the first comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the association of the CRHR1 gene and the risk of depression. A search online was conducted in databases for any CRHR1 genetic association studies in depression. Data were extracted for evaluation of pooled estimates using meta-analytic techniques. Statistical analyses were performed using the Comprehensive Meta-analysis, v2.0 software. A total of 1403 cases and 2353 mentally healthy controls were included in this study. We found a significant association of rs242941, rs1876828 and rs242939 variants of the CRHR1 gene with depression. No association of CRHR1 rs110402 and depression was observed. Our meta-analysis shows that some variants of the CRHR1 gene (rs242941, rs1876828 and rs242939) might confer susceptibility to depression. Further studies with larger sample sizes need to be conducted.