Epigenetic modifications and obsessive-compulsive disorder: what do we know?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic, severe disabling neuropsychiatric disorder whose pathophysiology is not yet well defined. Generally, the symptom onset occurs during pre-adult life and affects subjects in different life aspects, including professional and social relationships. Although robust evidence indicates the presence of genetic factors in the etiopathology of OCD, the entirely mechanisms are not totally clarified. Thus, the possible interactions between genes and environmental risk factors mediated by epigenetic mechanisms should be sought. Therefore, we provide a review of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms related to OCD with a deep focus on the regulation of critical genes of the central nervous system seeking possible potential biomarkers.

Automated summary

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic, severe disabling neuropsychiatric disorder with unclear pathophysiology. It usually manifests in pre-adult years and affects various aspects of life, including work and social relationships. While evidence suggests genetic factors in the etiology of OCD, the mechanisms are not fully understood. Thus, exploring the interplay between genes and environmental risk factors through epigenetic mechanisms is important. This review focuses on the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of OCD, specifically examining the regulation of crucial genes in the central nervous system to identify potential biomarkers.