Objectives: This preliminary study emphasizes on exploring the expression of genes in association with depressive disorder as seen in patients with depression compared to normal controls. Large body of research in the area of genetics has showed familial aggregation for depressive disorders. The purpose of the current research is to identify genetic risk factors in developing depression particularly among the population residing in the UAE. Methods: We emphasized on five associated genes (PPARGC1A, CAMKMT, HSD11B1, SLC6A4 and MAOA) in the current study, which have previously been linked to depression and anxiety in other populations. We screened the prevalence of the PPARGC1A, CAMKMT, HSD11B1, SLC6A4 and MAOA in 29 patients with depressive disorder and 30 controls using the quantitative real-time PCR method. Results: The pilot data indicates that the expression of PPARGC1A gene, studied for the first time in the UAE population, is expressively lower among the depressed group indicating a strong association with depression. Conclusion: These results open several possibilities for further research to study the role of this gene as a protective factor against developing depression.

Objectives: This preliminary study emphasizes on exploring the expression of genes in association with depressive disorder as seen in patients with depression compared to normal controls. Large body of research in the area of genetics has showed familial aggregation for depressive disorders. The pur...