Sex differences modulating serotonergic polymorphisms implicated in the mechanistic pathways of risk for depression and related disorders

Despite consistent observations of sex differences in depression and related emotional disorders, we do not yet know how these sex differences modulate the effects of genetic polymorphisms implicated in risk for these disorders. This Mini‐Review focuses on genetic polymorphisms of the serotonergic system to illustrate how sex differences might modulate the neurobiological pathways involved in the development of depression. We consider the interacting role of environmental factors such as early‐life stress. Given limited current knowledge about this topic, we highlight methodological considerations, challenges, and guidelines for future research. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The effects of polymorphisms in serotonin transporter, monoamine oxidase A (MAOA), and tyrosine hydroxylase genes on depression, clinical expressions, and latent risk factors are modulated by sex differences.