The role of immune genes in the association between depression and inflammation: A review of recent clinical studies

► Gene variants related to cytokines, enzymes and the serotonin pathway may increase the risk for depression. ► SNPs in cytokine genes, and in those regulating T-cell function may be associated with reduced responsiveness to antidepressants. ► Genetic variants influence the biological mechanisms by which the innate immune system contributes to the development of depression.