Overview

• Researchers analyzed DNA from over 53,000 individuals with OCD and 2 million controls, marking the largest genome-wide association study of the disorder to date.
• The study uncovered 30 genomic regions and 249 genes linked to OCD, including 25 with strong evidence of causality.
• Findings reveal genetic overlap between OCD and other psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety, depression, anorexia, and Tourette syndrome.
• Key OCD-related genes are associated with brain regions like the hypothalamus and striatum, implicating pathways in habit formation and emotion regulation.
• Researchers aim to leverage these discoveries to repurpose existing drugs, develop biomarkers, and personalize OCD diagnosis and treatment.