Genetic association studies between SNPs and suicidal behavior: A meta-analytical field synopsis

•Abundant meta-analytic evidence on associations between SNPs and suicidal behavior•Current report: review whole field, integrates evidence into general framework•Meta-analytic evidence shows clear patterns.•Transfer of meta-analytic evidence into primary research is insufficient.•Important stepping stone for modern and more complex approaches

The large number of published meta-analyses on the associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and suicidal behavior mirrors the enormous research interest in this topic. Although meta-analytic evidence is abundant and certain patterns are apparent, those have not been integrated into a general framework as of yet. In a systematic review, genetic association studies between SNPs and suicidal behavior were identified. Previously published meta-analyses for eight SNPs were updated and the results of the different meta-analyses were compared. Meta-analyses for 15 SNPs, which had not been subjected to meta-analysis before, were conducted. The present meta-analytical field synopsis showed five major similarities between new and published analyses: 1) Summary effect sizes were small and rarely statistically significant, 2) heterogeneity between studies was often substantial, 3) there were no time trends, 4) effects were easily swayed and were largely dependent on individual studies, and 5) publication bias does not play a role in this field of research. Meta-analytic data show once more that major contributions of single genes are unlikely. However, association studies and corresponding meta-analyses have been an important and necessary stepping stone in the development of modern and more complex approaches in the genetics of suicidal behavior.