CiMUS takes part in the largest international study identifying DNA variants linked to OCD risk

Researchers from CiMUS, a center affiliated with the Universidade de Santiago and part of the CIGUS network —an initiative promoted by the Xunta de Galicia that brings together centers recognized for scientific excellence— are participating in the largest study to date on the genetics of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

This European-funded research involved an international team, including specialists from the Genomic Medicine Group at USC, CiMUS, and the Fundación Pública Galega de Medicina Xenómica.

Published in the journal Nature Genetics, this global collaborative study was led by Dalhousie University (Canada) and marks a significant step forward in understanding the genetic basis of OCD. This condition affects approximately one in every 100 people and is characterized by unwanted repetitive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

With contributions from over 200 experts and the result of more than 20 years of sample collection, the study also relied heavily on genotyping centers and statistical analysis. Notably, Cristina Rodríguez Fontenla, a researcher at CiMUS, played a key role as one of the lead analysts and authors. In her statement to CiMUS, she explained: “The study identified 30 specific DNA regions associated with an increased risk of OCD. By analyzing these regions, we were able to identify 249 genes, 25 of which showed strong associations. This is a very significant advance that lays the groundwork for further exploration of the biological mechanisms underlying OCD.”

Additionally, the study found that OCD is genetically linked to other psychiatric disorders, including Tourette syndrome, anorexia nervosa, anxiety, and depression.