1
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Cornell J, Conchas A, Wang XQ, Fink JC, Chen H, Kane MA, Pilli N, Ait-Daoud N, Gorelick DA, Li MD, Johnson BA, Seneviratne C. Validation of serotonin transporter mRNA as a quantitative biomarker of heavy drinking and its comparison to ethyl glucuronide/ethyl sulfate: A randomized, double-blind, crossover trial. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:1888-1899. [PMID: 36031718 PMCID: PMC9588643 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The serotonin transporter (SERT) mRNA was previously reported to be a quantitative and pathophysiology-based biomarker of heavy drinking in 5HTTLPR:LL genotype-carriers treated with ondansetron. Here, we validated the potential use of SERT mRNA for quantitative prediction of recent alcohol consumption (in the absence of treatment) and compared it with the known biomarkers ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS). METHODS Binge drinking men and women of European ancestry aged 21 to 65 years were enrolled in a 12-day, in-patient, randomized, double-blind, crossover study, where they were administered three beverage doses (placebo, 0.5 g/kg [0.4 g/kg] ethanol, and 1 g/kg [0.9 g/kg] ethanol for men [women]) individually in three 4-day periods (experiments), separated by minimum 7-day washout period. Diet, sleep, and physical activity were controlled throughout the inpatient experiments. Twenty-nine participants were randomized to receive beverage doses counterbalancing the sequence of treatment and gender within subgroups stratified by SERT genotypes 5HTTLPR:LL+rs25531:AA (LA LA ) versus 5HTTLPR:LS/SS. Peripheral venous blood was collected daily for (1) quantification of SERT mRNA (the primary outcome measure) using qRT-PCR and (2) plasma EtG and EtS levels using tandem mass-spectrometry. RESULTS The association between administered beverage dose and SERT mRNA from completers of at least one 4-day experiment (N = 18) assessed by a linear mixed model was not statistically significant. Significant positive associations were found with beverage dose and plasma EtG, EtS and EtG/EtS ratio (β = 5.8, SE = 1.2, p < 0.0001; β = 1.3, SE = 0.6, p = 0.023; and β = 3.0, SE = 0.7, p < 0.0001, respectively; the C-statistics for discriminating outcomes were 0.97, 0.8, and 0.92, respectively). Additionally, we observed a sequence effect with a greater placebo effect on SERT mRNA when it was administered during the first experiment (p = 0.0009), but not on EtG/EtS measures. CONCLUSION The findings do not validate the use of SERT as a biomarker of heavy drinking. Larger and more innovative studies addressing the effects of placebo, race, gender, and response to treatment with serotonergic agents are needed to fully assess the utility of SERT as a biomarker of heavy and binge drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Cornell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Andrew Conchas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD (former affiliation)
| | - Xin-Qun Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Jeffrey C. Fink
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Hegang Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Maureen A. Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD
| | - Nageswara Pilli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD
| | - Nassima Ait-Daoud
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - David A. Gorelick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Bankole A. Johnson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD (former affiliation)
| | - Chamindi Seneviratne
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- The Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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2
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Uchikawa H, Fujii K, Shiohama T, Nakazato M, Shimizu E, Miyashita T, Shimojo N. Specific temperament in patients with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome. Pediatr Int 2021; 63:177-182. [PMID: 32745364 DOI: 10.1111/ped.14419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is a neurocutaneous disease, characterized by tumorigenesis and developmental anomalies due to aberrant sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling. Patients with NBCCS typically appear calm and carefree, suggesting that a specific personality in these patients may be associated with an enhanced hedgehog pathway. Our study aimed to determine the personality type in these patients. METHODS We enrolled 14 mentally normal patients with genetically confirmed NBCCS (seven males and seven females; mean age = 25.2 years) and 20 controls (10 males and 10 females; mean age = 27.9 years). The patients were assessed with the Japanese version of the Temperament and Character Inventory, based on the seven-dimensional model of temperament and character, and their clinical symptoms were evaluated. The amygdala volumes of six patients with NBCCS were measured using magnetic resonance imaging with image-processing software. RESULTS Patients with NBCCS scored significantly lower on harm avoidance (0.89) than controls (1.00; P = 0.0084). Moreover, patients with NBCCS and developmental malformations such as rib anomalies, who may have experienced Shh signaling enhancement from the prenatal period, scored significantly lower on harm avoidance (0.80 [P = 0.0031]). The left amygdala volume was also significantly reduced in patients with NBCCS (P = 0.0426). CONCLUSIONS Patients with NBCCS who experienced increased Shh signaling from the prenatal period showed significantly lower harm avoidance related to serotonin. The left amygdala volume was significantly reduced in these patients. Our results indicate that Shh signaling may influence the human personality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Uchikawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Eastern Chiba Medical Center, Togane, Japan
| | - Katsunori Fujii
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tadashi Shiohama
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Michiko Nakazato
- Department of Psychiatry, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita, Japan
| | - Eiji Shimizu
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Miyashita
- Department of Genetics, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Naoki Shimojo
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
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3
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Fonseca R, Madeira N, Simoes C. Resilience to fear: The role of individual factors in amygdala response to stressors. Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 110:103582. [PMID: 33346000 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resilience to stress is an adaptive process that varies individually. Resilience refers to the adaptation, or the ability to maintain or regain mental health, despite being subject to adverse situation. Resilience is a dynamic concept that reflects a combination of internal individual factors, including age and gender interacting with external factors such as social, cultural and environmental factors. In the last decade, we have witnessed an increase in the prevalence of anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder. Given that stress in unavoidable, it is of great interest to understand the neurophysiological mechanisms of resilience, the individual factors that may contribute to susceptibility and promote efficacious approaches to improve resilience. Here, we address this complex question, attempting at defining clear and operational definitions that may allow us to improve our analysis of behavior incorporating individuality. We examine how individual perception of the stressor can alter the outcome of an adverse situation using as an example, the fear-conditioning paradigm and discuss how individual differences in the reward system can contribute to resilience. Given the central role of the endocannabinoid system in regulating fear responses and anxiety, we discuss the evidence that polymorphisms in several molecules of this signaling system contribute to different anxiety phenotypes. The endocannabinoid system is highly interconnected with the serotoninergic and dopaminergic modulatory systems, contributing to individual differences in stress perception and coping mechanisms. We review how the individual variability in these modulatory systems can be used towards a multivariable assessment of stress risk. Incorporating individuality in our research will allow us to define biomarkers of anxiety disorders as well as assess prognosis, towards a personalized clinical approach to mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalina Fonseca
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology, Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Natália Madeira
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology, Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Simoes
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology, Chronic Diseases Research Center (CEDOC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
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4
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Perry LM, Goldstein-Piekarski AN, Williams LM. Sex differences modulating serotonergic polymorphisms implicated in the mechanistic pathways of risk for depression and related disorders. J Neurosci Res 2017; 95:737-762. [PMID: 27870440 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- LeeAnn M Perry
- Neurosciences Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Andrea N Goldstein-Piekarski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Sierra-Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Sierra-Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
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5
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Neural basis of individual differences in the response to mental stress: a magnetoencephalography study. Brain Imaging Behav 2017; 10:1160-1171. [PMID: 26586263 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-015-9479-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Stress is a risk factor for the onset of mental disorders. Although stress response varies across individuals, the mechanism of individual differences remains unclear. Here, we investigated the neural basis of individual differences in response to mental stress using magnetoencephalography (MEG). Twenty healthy male volunteers completed the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). The experiment included two types of tasks: a non-stress-inducing task and a stress-inducing task. During these tasks, participants passively viewed non-stress-inducing images and stress-inducing images, respectively, and MEG was recorded. Before and after each task, MEG and electrocardiography were recorded and subjective ratings were obtained. We grouped participants according to Novelty seeking (NS) - tendency to be exploratory, and Harm avoidance (HA) - tendency to be cautious. Participants with high NS and low HA (n = 10) assessed by TCI had a different neural response to stress than those with low NS and high HA (n = 10). Event-related desynchronization (ERD) in the beta frequency band was observed only in participants with high NS and low HA in the brain region extending from Brodmann's area 31 (including the posterior cingulate cortex and precuneus) from 200 to 350 ms after the onset of picture presentation in the stress-inducing task. Individual variation in personality traits (NS and HA) was associated with the neural response to mental stress. These findings increase our understanding of the psychological and neural basis of individual differences in the stress response, and will contribute to development of the psychotherapeutic approaches to stress-related disorders.
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6
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Wong-Lin K, Wang DH, Moustafa AA, Cohen JY, Nakamura K. Toward a multiscale modeling framework for understanding serotonergic function. J Psychopharmacol 2017; 31:1121-1136. [PMID: 28417684 PMCID: PMC5606304 DOI: 10.1177/0269881117699612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite its importance in regulating emotion and mental wellbeing, the complex structure and function of the serotonergic system present formidable challenges toward understanding its mechanisms. In this paper, we review studies investigating the interactions between serotonergic and related brain systems and their behavior at multiple scales, with a focus on biologically-based computational modeling. We first discuss serotonergic intracellular signaling and neuronal excitability, followed by neuronal circuit and systems levels. At each level of organization, we will discuss the experimental work accompanied by related computational modeling work. We then suggest that a multiscale modeling approach that integrates the various levels of neurobiological organization could potentially transform the way we understand the complex functions associated with serotonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- KongFatt Wong-Lin
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, School of Computing and Intelligent Systems, University of Ulster, Magee Campus, Derry~Londonderry, UK
| | - Da-Hui Wang
- School of Systems Science, and National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Ahmed A Moustafa
- School of Social Sciences and Psychology, and Marcs Institute for Brain and Behaviour, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeremiah Y Cohen
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Kae Nakamura
- Department of Physiology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
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7
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Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "Parental Care". The postpartum period involves some truly transformational changes in females' socioemotional behaviors. For most female laboratory rodents and women, these changes include an improvement in their affective state, which has positive consequences for their ability to sensitively care for their offspring. There is heterogeneity among females in the likelihood of this positive affective change, though, and some women experience elevated anxiety or depression (or in rodents anxiety- or depression-related behaviors) after giving birth. We aim to contribute to the understanding of this heterogeneity in maternal affectivity by reviewing selected components of the scientific literatures on laboratory rodents and humans examining how mothers' physical contact with her infants, genetics, history of anxiety and depression and early-life and recent-life experiences contribute to individual differences in postpartum affective states. These studies together indicate that multiple biological and environmental factors beyond female maternal state shape affective responses during the postpartum period, and probably do so in an interactive manner. Furthermore, the similar capacity of some of these factors to modulate anxiety and depression in human and rodent mothers suggests cross-species conservation of mechanisms regulating postpartum affectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella Agrati
- Department of Physiology and Nutrition, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Joseph S Lonstein
- Neuroscience Program & Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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8
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Park MH, Sanders E, Howe M, Singh M, Hallmayer J, Kim E, Chang K. Association of Anxiety Symptoms in Offspring of Bipolar Parents with Serotonin Transporter-Linked Polymorphic Region (5-HTTLPR) Genotype. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2015. [PMID: 26218602 PMCID: PMC4545526 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2014.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Offspring of parents with bipolar disorder (BD) have been shown to be at high risk for BD. Anxiety symptoms, even at subclinical levels, have been associated with increased risk for BD in these youth. The s-allele of the serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of both BD and anxiety disorders and has been associated with pharmacological treatment response and increased risk for antidepressant side effects. Therefore, we aimed to explore 1) whether anxiety symptoms in offspring of BD parents were associated with presence of the 5-HTTLPR s-allele and 2) whether anxiety symptoms in the offspring of BD parents according to the 5-HTTLPR genotypes are related to antianxiety medication status. METHODS A total of 64 offspring of BD parents (mean age: 13.7 years) and 51 healthy controls (HC) (mean age: 13.7 years) were compared genetically and on the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC). RESULTS Offspring of BD parents showed higher levels of overall anxiety than did the HC group. Only antianxiety medication naïve offspring of BD parents were found to have an association between 5-HTTLPR genotypes and anxiety symptoms. The antianxiety medication naïve offspring of BD parents with the s-allele showed higher level of overall anxiety than offspring of BD parents with the l/l genotype. No significant differences in anxiety symptoms or their association with the 5-HTTLPR genotype were found in the HC group. CONCLUSIONS This study indicated that there may be an association between 5-HTTLPR genotypes and anxiety symptoms in offspring of BD parents, and that antianxiety medication status may affect anxiety symptoms in the offspring of BD patients according to genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Hyeon Park
- Department of Psychiatry, St. Vincent Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, St. Mary's Hospital, Korea
| | - Erica Sanders
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Meghan Howe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Manpreet Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Joachim Hallmayer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Eunjoo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kiki Chang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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9
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Zhang L, Liu L, Li X, Song Y, Liu J. Serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) influences trait anxiety by modulating the functional connectivity between the amygdala and insula in Han Chinese males. Hum Brain Mapp 2015; 36:2732-42. [PMID: 25833281 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.22803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A functional polymorphism (5-hydroxytryptamine transporter linked polymorphic region [5-HTTLPR]) in the promoter region of human serotonin transporter gene has been found to be associated with several dimensions of neuroticism and psychopathology, especially anxiety. However, the neural basis underlying the association between 5-HTTLPR and anxiety is less clear. Here, we explored how 5-HTTLPR influenced anxiety by modulating the spontaneous brain activities in Han Chinese. First, we found an association between 5-HTTLPR and anxiety only in the male and not in the female population, where male S/S homozygotes had a significantly higher level of anxiety than male L allele carriers. Then, we examined how 5-HTTLPR influenced anxiety at both regional and network levels in the brain at rest. At the regional level, we found a significantly higher fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations in the amygdala in male S/S homozygotes relative to male L allele carriers. At the network level, male S/S homozygotes showed a weaker resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) between the amygdala and various regions, including the insula, Heschl's gyrus, lateral occipital cortex, superior temporal gyrus, and hippocampus, and a stronger RSFC between the amygdala and various regions, including the supramariginal gyrus and middle frontal gyrus. However, at both levels, only was the amygdala-insula RSFC correlated with anxiety. Mediation analyses further revealed that the amygdala-insula RSFC mediated the association between 5-HTTLPR and anxiety. In short, our study provided the first empirical evidence that the amygdala-insula RSFC served as the neural basis underlying the association between 5-HTTLPR and anxiety, suggesting a potential neurogenetic susceptibility mechanism for anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.,Center for Collaboration and Innovation in Brain and Learning Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Ling Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.,Center for Collaboration and Innovation in Brain and Learning Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Xueting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.,Center for Collaboration and Innovation in Brain and Learning Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Yiying Song
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.,Center for Collaboration and Innovation in Brain and Learning Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Center for Collaboration and Innovation in Brain and Learning Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.,School of psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess the potential association between serotonin transporter gene insertion/deletion polymorphism and the cancer-related constipation phenotype. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 120 patients diagnosed with malignant solid tumors were subjected to genotyping. For the two groups - patients with constipation and constipation-free patients with non-gastrointestinal cancer, 60 cases in each group - we collected the peripheral venous blood. We extracted genomic DNA, and used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to analyze the serotonin transporter (5-HT) link polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene. RESULTS The frequency of S/S genotype in cancer patients with constipation was 66.67% (40/60), and the frequency of the S allele was 79.17% (95/120); the frequency of S/S genotype in cancer patients without constipation was 48.33% (29/60), and the frequency of the S allele was 65.83% (79/120). There was a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The presence of 5-HTTLPRS/S genotype and the S allele in patients with cancers probably carry an increased risk of constipation. However, its role as a cause of cancer-related constipation needs to be further investigated.
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11
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Serotonin in fear conditioning processes. Behav Brain Res 2015; 277:68-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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12
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Chiao JY, Blizinsky KD. Population disparities in mental health: insights from cultural neuroscience. Am J Public Health 2013; 103 Suppl 1:S122-32. [PMID: 23927543 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2013.301440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
By 2050, nearly 1 in 5 Americans (19%) will be an immigrant, including Hispanics, Blacks, and Asians, compared to the 1 in 8 (12%) in 2005. They will vary in the extent to which they are at risk for mental health disorders. Given this increase in cultural diversity within the United States and costly population health disparities across cultural groups, it is essential to develop a more comprehensive understanding of how culture affects basic psychological and biological mechanisms. We examine these basic mechanisms that underlie population disparities in mental health through cultural neuroscience. We discuss the challenges to and opportunities for cultural neuroscience research to determine sociocultural and biological factors that confer risk for and resilience to mental health disorders across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Y Chiao
- Joan Y. Chiao and Katherine D. Blizinsky Department of Psychology and Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
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13
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Lohoff FW, Narasimhan S, Rickels K. Interaction between polymorphisms in serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) and serotonin receptor 2A (HTR2A) genes predict treatment response to venlafaxine XR in generalized anxiety disorder. THE PHARMACOGENOMICS JOURNAL 2012; 13:464-9. [DOI: 10.1038/tpj.2012.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 07/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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14
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Zavos HMS, Wong CCY, Barclay NL, Keers R, Mill J, Rijsdijk FV, Gregory AM, Eley TC. Anxiety sensitivity in adolescence and young adulthood: the role of stressful life events, 5HTTLPR and their interaction. Depress Anxiety 2012; 29:400-8. [PMID: 22447535 DOI: 10.1002/da.21921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/08/2011] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive biases have long been hypothesized to influence the development and maintenance of symptoms of internalizing problems. Anxiety sensitivity represents one such bias and refers to sensitivity to the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety and the belief that these are harmful. Twin studies indicate a role for both environmental and genetic influences on anxiety sensitivity. However, little work has been done specifying environments or genes involved in this phenotype. In light of this, we looked at the association between stressful life events, the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5HTTLPR), and anxiety sensitivity in a longitudinal sample of adolescents. METHODS Stressful life events and anxiety sensitivity were measured in over 1,500 individuals at three time points (mean ages 15, 17, and 20 years). 5HTTLPR was genotyped in 1,109 participants. RESULTS There was consistent evidence for an association between stressful life events and both anxiety sensitivity and change in anxiety sensitivity over time. Although the effect of independent stressful life events was relatively short lived, dependent stressful life events were associated with anxiety sensitivity over time. There was no evidence for a main effect of 5HTTLPR on anxiety sensitivity. 5HTTLPR genotype did not moderate the effect of stressful life events on anxiety sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS The current study extends previous work by showing that stressful life events, independent of the individual, explained change in cognitions associated with anxiety and depression. This effect does not, however, appear to be moderated by genotype.
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15
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Watanabe N, Wada M, Irukayama-Tomobe Y, Ogata Y, Tsujino N, Suzuki M, Furutani N, Sakurai T, Yamamoto M. A single nucleotide polymorphism of the neuropeptide B/W receptor-1 gene influences the evaluation of facial expressions. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35390. [PMID: 22545105 PMCID: PMC3335863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide B/W receptor-1 (NPBWR1) is expressed in discrete brain regions in rodents and humans, with particularly strong expression in the limbic system, including the central nucleus of the amygdala. Recently, Nagata-Kuroiwa et al. reported that Npbwr1(-/-) mice showed changes in social behavior, suggesting that NPBWR1 plays important roles in the emotional responses of social interactions.The human NPBWR1 gene has a single nucleotide polymorphism at nucleotide 404 (404A>T; SNP rs33977775). This polymorphism results in an amino acid change, Y135F. The results of an in vitro experiment demonstrated that this change alters receptor function. We investigated the effect of this variation on emotional responses to stimuli of showing human faces with four categories of emotional expressions (anger, fear, happiness, and neutral). Subjects' emotional levels on seeing these faces were rated on scales of hedonic valence, emotional arousal, and dominance (V-A-D). A significant genotype difference was observed in valence evaluation; the 404AT group perceived facial expressions more pleasantly than did the 404AA group, regardless of the category of facial expression. Statistical analysis of each combination of [V-A-D and facial expression] also showed that the 404AT group tended to feel less submissive to an angry face than did the 404AA group. Thus, a single nucleotide polymorphism of NPBWR1 seems to affect human behavior in a social context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriya Watanabe
- Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Engineering, Tamagawa University, Machida, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mari Wada
- Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoko Irukayama-Tomobe
- Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- University of Tsukuba Center for Behavioral Molecular Genetics (FIRST Program), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yousuke Ogata
- Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Natsuko Tsujino
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Integrative Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Mika Suzuki
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Integrative Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Naoki Furutani
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Integrative Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sakurai
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience and Integrative Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
- Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology Yanagisawa Orphan Receptor Project, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Yamamoto
- Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Ulrich I, Stopsack M, Spitzer C, Grabe HJ, Freyberger HJ, Barnow S. [Familial transmission of depression: the importance of harm avoidance]. DER NERVENARZT 2012; 82:1169-77. [PMID: 21264458 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-010-3209-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research about the aetiology of depression has analysed how depression-associated personality traits influence familial transmission. Using the community-based sample of the Greifswald Family Study, we investigated longitudinally to which extent the temperament factor harm avoidance influences the correlation between parent's depression and the depression of their offspring (with regard to possible sex differences). METHODS To test this familial transmission a structural equation model was conducted with the data of 193 children (mean age 19.5, SD=2.41) and their biological parents. Depression was assessed with structured clinical interviews, and harm avoidance with Cloninger's Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI, JTCI). RESULTS The harm avoidance scores of the mothers were significantly correlated with the harm avoidance scores of their children, but the correlation of the father's and children's scores did not reach significance. The extent of harm avoidance at the first assessment of the 14-year-old children predicted depression 5 years later. CONCLUSION These results indicate the importance of personality as a vulnerability marker for developing affective disorders. The results are discussed with respect to prevention programmes for children and parents with depression, especially if they exhibit strongly avoidant or anxious behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ulrich
- Arbeitseinheit Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie am Psychologischen Institut, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Hauptstraße 47-51, 69117 Heidelberg, Deutschland.
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Haddley K, Bubb VJ, Breen G, Parades-Esquivel UM, Quinn JP. Behavioural genetics of the serotonin transporter. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2012; 12:503-535. [PMID: 22261701 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2011_186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The serotonin transporter is a key regulator of the bioavailability of serotonin and therefore any modulation in the expression or action of the transporter would be expected to have consequences on behaviour. The transporter has therefore become a target for pharmaceutical intervention in behavioural and mood disorders. The search for polymorphic variants in the transporter that would associate with neurological disorders has been extensive but has become focused on two domains which are both termed variable number tandem repeat (VNTR)polymorphisms. Both of these VNTRs are in non-coding DNA and therefore proposed to be mechanistically involved in a disorder through their ability to modulate transcriptional or post-transcriptional regulation of the transporter. The most extensively studied is in the promoter and is a bi-allelic insertion/deletion found in the 50 promoter region of the gene 1.2 kb upstream of the transcriptional start site. This VNTR, termed, 5-HTTLPR was initially identified as two variants containing either, 14 (short/deletion) or 16 (long/insertion) copies of a 22 bp repeat. A second widely studied VNTR found in the non-coding region of the transporter is located within intron 2 and comprises 9, 10 or 12 copies of a16–17 bp repeat termed, STin2.9, STin2.10 and STin2.12, respectively. These VNTR polymorphisms have been associated with a range of behavioural and psychiatric disorders including depression, OCD, anxiety and schizophrenia, however often the lack of reproducibility in different cohorts has led to debate on the actual association of the polymorphisms with this extensive range of neurological conditions. Here we review these two polymorphic VNTRs in depth and relate that to pharmaceutical response, their ability to regulate differential transporter expression, their core involvement in gene-environment interaction and their genetic association with specific disorders.
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Klauke B, Deckert J, Reif A, Pauli P, Zwanzger P, Baumann C, Arolt V, Glöckner-Rist A, Domschke K. Serotonin transporter gene and childhood trauma--a G × E effect on anxiety sensitivity. Depress Anxiety 2011; 28:1048-57. [PMID: 21681867 DOI: 10.1002/da.20840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2011] [Revised: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic factors and environmental factors are assumed to interactively influence the pathogenesis of anxiety disorders. Thus, a gene-environment interaction (G × E) study was conducted with respect to anxiety sensitivity (AS) as a promising intermediate phenotype of anxiety disorders. METHOD Healthy subjects (N = 363) were assessed for AS, childhood maltreatment (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire), and genotyped for functional serotonin transporter gene variants (5-HTTLPR/5-HTT rs25531). The influence of genetic and environmental variables on AS and its subdimensions was determined by a step-wise hierarchical regression and a multiple indicator multiple cause (MIMIC) model. RESULTS A significant G × E effect of the more active 5-HTT genotypes and childhood maltreatment on AS was observed. Furthermore, genotype (LL)-childhood trauma interaction particularly influenced somatic AS subdimensions, whereas cognitive subdimensions were affected by childhood maltreatment only. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate a G × E effect of the more active 5-HTT genotypes and childhood maltreatment on AS, with particular impact on its somatic subcomponent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Klauke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
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Pang RD, Wang Z, Klosinski LP, Guo Y, Herman DH, Celikel T, Dong HW, Holschneider DP. Mapping functional brain activation using [14C]-iodoantipyrine in male serotonin transporter knockout mice. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23869. [PMID: 21886833 PMCID: PMC3160305 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Serotonin transporter knockout mice have been a powerful tool in understanding the role played by the serotonin transporter in modulating physiological function and behavior. However, little work has examined brain function in this mouse model. We tested the hypothesis that male knockout mice show exaggerated limbic activation during exposure to an emotional stressor, similar to human subjects with genetically reduced transcription of the serotonin transporter. Methodology/Principal Findings Functional brain mapping using [14C]-iodoantipyrine was performed during recall of a fear conditioned tone. Regional cerebral blood flow was analyzed by statistical parametric mapping from autoradiographs of the three-dimensionally reconstructed brains. During recall, knockout mice compared to wild-type mice showed increased freezing, increased regional cerebral blood flow of the amygdala, insula, and barrel field somatosensory cortex, decreased regional cerebral blood flow of the ventral hippocampus, and conditioning-dependent alterations in regional cerebral blood flow in the medial prefrontal cortex (prelimbic, infralimbic, and cingulate). Anxiety tests relying on sensorimotor exploration showed a small (open field) or paradoxical effect (marble burying) of loss of the serotonin transporter on anxiety behavior, which may reflect known abnormalities in the knockout animal's sensory system. Experiments evaluating whisker function showed that knockout mice displayed impaired whisker sensation in the spontaneous gap crossing task and appetitive gap cross training. Conclusions This study is the first to demonstrate altered functional activation in the serotonin transporter knockout mice of critical nodes of the fear conditioning circuit. Alterations in whisker sensation and functional activation of barrel field somatosensory cortex extend earlier reports of barrel field abnormalities, which may confound behavioral measures relying on sensorimotor exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raina D. Pang
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Zhuo Wang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Lauren P. Klosinski
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Yumei Guo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - David H. Herman
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Tansu Celikel
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Neurobiology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Hong Wei Dong
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Daniel P. Holschneider
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Neurobiology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Toyoshima F, Oshima T, Nakajima S, Sakurai J, Tanaka J, Tomita T, Hori K, Matsumoto T, Miwa H. Serotonin transporter gene polymorphism may be associated with functional dyspepsia in a Japanese population. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2011; 12:88. [PMID: 21714874 PMCID: PMC3142494 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2350-12-88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2010] [Accepted: 06/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Although familial clustering of functional dyspepsia (FD) has been reported, the role of genetics in the susceptibility to FD is still not well understood. In the present study, the association between serotonin transporter (SERT) gene (SLC6A4) polymorphism and FD was explored. Methods Subjects were divided into either a postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) group or an epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) group according to the Rome III criteria. The healthy controls were those who had visited a hospital for an annual health check-up. The presence of the SLC6A4 promoter polymorphism, 5-hydroxytryptamin transporter gene linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR), was then evaluated, and logistic regression analysis was used to test all variables. Results The 5-HTTLPR genotype distribution was 448 SS, 174 SL, and 24 LL in controls and 30 SS, 20 SL, and 3 LL in FD subjects. No significant correlation was found between the 5-HTTLPR genotype and FD. When the genotypes and subtypes of FD were exploratory evaluated, the SL genotype was significantly associated with PDS [odds ratio (OR) = 2.24, 95% confidence interval (CI); 1.16-4.32, P = 0.034 after Bonferroni correction] compared to the SS genotype adjusted for sex and age. Comparison of the SS genotype with the SL/LL genotype also showed a significant association of genotype with PDS (OR = 2.32, 95% CI; 1.23-4.37, P = 0.009). Conclusion The present results suggest that 5-HTTLPR L allele may influence the susceptibility to PDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Toyoshima
- Division of Upper Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501, Japan
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Trait anxiety, trait fear and emotionality: The perspective from non-human studies. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2010.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Corr PJ, Fajkowska M. Introduction to special issue on anxiety. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2011.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Minelli A, Bonvicini C, Scassellati C, Sartori R, Gennarelli M. The influence of psychiatric screening in healthy populations selection: a new study and meta-analysis of functional 5-HTTLPR and rs25531 polymorphisms and anxiety-related personality traits. BMC Psychiatry 2011; 11:50. [PMID: 21453464 PMCID: PMC3078846 DOI: 10.1186/1471-244x-11-50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2010] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A genetic liability for anxiety-related personality traits in healthy subjects has been associated with the functional serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR), although the data are somewhat conflicting. Moreover, only one study has investigated the functional significance of the 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 haplotypes in relation to anxiety traits in healthy subjects. We tested whether the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and the 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 haplotypes are linked to Harm Avoidance (HA) using an association study (STUDY I) and a meta-analytic approach (STUDY II). METHODS STUDY I: A total of 287 unrelated Italian volunteers were screened for DSM-IV Axis I disorders and genotyped for the 5-HTTLPR and rs25531 (A/G) polymorphisms. Different functional haplotype combinations were also analyzed. STUDY II: A total of 44 studies were chosen for a meta-analysis of the putative association between 5-HTTLPR and anxiety-related personality traits. RESULTS STUDY I: In the whole sample of 287 volunteers, we found that the SS genotype and S'S' haplotypes were associated with higher scores on HA. However, because the screening assessed by Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) showed the presence of 55 volunteers affected by depression or anxiety disorders, we analyzed the two groups ("disordered" and "healthy") separately. The data obtained did indeed confirm that in the "healthy" group, the significant effects of the SS genotype and S'S' haplotypes were lost, but they remained in the "disordered" group. STUDY II: The results of the 5-HTTLPR meta-analysis with anxiety-related traits in the whole sample confirmed the association of the SS genotype with higher anxiety-related traits scores in Caucasoids; however, when we analyzed only those studies that used structured psychiatric screening, no association was found. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the relevance to perform analyses on personality traits only in DSM-IV axis I disorder-free subjects. Furthermore, we did not find an association between functional serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms and anxiety traits in healthy subjects screened through a structured psychiatric interview.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Minelli
- Genetic Unit, I.R.C.C.S. "San Giovanni di Dio" - Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristian Bonvicini
- Genetic Unit, I.R.C.C.S. "San Giovanni di Dio" - Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Catia Scassellati
- Genetic Unit, I.R.C.C.S. "San Giovanni di Dio" - Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Sartori
- Department of Philosophy, Pedagogy, Psychology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Gennarelli
- Genetic Unit, I.R.C.C.S. "San Giovanni di Dio" - Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy,Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Biology and Genetic Division, University School of Medicine, Brescia, Italy
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Kogan SM, Beach SRH, Philibert RA, Brody GH, Chen YF, Lei MK. 5-HTTLPR status moderates the effect of early adolescent substance use on risky sexual behavior. Health Psychol 2011; 29:471-6. [PMID: 20836601 DOI: 10.1037/a0020594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A longitudinal, prospective design was used to investigate a moderation effect in the association between early adolescent substance use and risky sexual behavior 2 years later. A genetic vulnerability factor, a variable nucleotide repeat polymorphism (VNTR) in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4, known as 5-HTTLPR, was hypothesized to moderate the link between substance use at age 14 and risky sexual behavior at age 16. This VNTR has been associated with risk-taking behavior. DESIGN African American youths in rural Georgia (N = 185) provided 2 waves of data on their substance use and sexual behavior. Genetic data were obtained via saliva samples. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Substance use and sexual risk behavior were assessed using youth self-report items developed for this investigation. RESULTS Multiple regression analyses indicated that the presence of 1 or 2 copies of the short allele of the VNTR interacted with substance use to predict sexual behavior. Substance use had little effect on sexual behavior for youths without the short allele; this effect was greatly increased for youths with the short allele. CONCLUSION Genetic vulnerability affected the implications of early onset substance use for later sexual behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Kogan
- Center for Family Research, University of Georgia, 1095 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30605-4527, USA.
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26
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He Q, Xue G, Chen C, Lu Z, Dong Q, Lei X, Ding N, Li J, Li H, Chen C, Li J, Moyzis RK, Bechara A. Serotonin transporter gene-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) influences decision making under ambiguity and risk in a large Chinese sample. Neuropharmacology 2010; 59:518-26. [PMID: 20659488 PMCID: PMC2946467 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2010.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Risky decision making is a complex process that involves weighing the probabilities of alternative options that can be desirable, undesirable, or neutral. Individuals vary greatly in how they make decisions either under ambiguity and/or under risk. Such individual differences may have genetic bases. Based on previous studies on the genetic basis of decision making, two decision making tasks [i.e., the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) and Loss Aversion Task (LAT)] were used to test the effect of 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on decision making under ambiguity and under risk in a large Han Chinese sample (572 college students, 312 females). Basic intelligence and memory tests were also included to control for the influence of basic cognitive abilities on decision making. We found that 5-HTTLPR polymorphism significantly influenced performance in both IGT and LAT. After controlling for intelligence and memory abilities, subjects homozygous for s allele had lower IGT scores than l carriers in the first 40 trials of the IGT task. They also exhibited higher loss aversion than l carriers in the LAT task. Moreover, the effects of 5-HTTLPR were stronger for males than for females. These results extend the literature on the important role of emotion in decision making under ambiguity and risk, and shed additional lights on how decision making is influenced by culture as well as sex differences. Combining our results with existing literature, we propose that these effects might be mediated by a neural circuitry that comprises the amygdala, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and insular cortex. Understanding the genetic factors affecting decision making in healthy subjects may allow us to better identify at-risk individuals, and better target the development of new potential treatments for specific disorders such as schizophrenia, addiction, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua He
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, 90089, United States
| | - Gui Xue
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, 90089, United States
| | - Chuansheng Chen
- Department of Psychology and Social Behavior, University of California, Irvine, 92697, United States
| | - Zhonglin Lu
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, 90089, United States
| | - Qi Dong
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
| | - Xuemei Lei
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
| | - Ni Ding
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
| | - Jin Li
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
- Department of Psychology and Social Behavior, University of California, Irvine, 92697, United States
| | - He Li
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
| | - Chunhui Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
| | - Jun Li
- National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, P. R. China
| | - Robert K. Moyzis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, 92697, United States
| | - Antoine Bechara
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, 90089, United States
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Gonda X, Fountoulakis KN, Rihmer Z, Laszik A, Akiskal HS, Bagdy G. How possible is the development of an operational psychometric method to assess the presence of the 5-HTTLPR s allele? Equivocal preliminary findings. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2010; 9:21. [PMID: 20459664 PMCID: PMC2880317 DOI: 10.1186/1744-859x-9-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2010] [Accepted: 05/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The s allele of the 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter-linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene has been found to be associated with neuroticism-related traits, affective temperaments and response to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment. The aim of the current study was to develop a psychometric tool that could at least partially substitute for laboratory testing and could predict the presence of the s allele. METHODS The study included 138 women of Caucasian origin, mean 32.20 +/- 1.02 years old. All subjects completed the Hungarian standardised version of the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A) instrument and were genotyped for 5-HTTLPR using PCR. The statistical analysis included the calculation of the Index of Discrimination (D), Discriminant Function Analysis, creation of scales on the basis of the above and then item analysis and calculation of sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS Four indices were eventually developed, but their psychometric properties were relatively poor and their joint application did not improve the outcome. CONCLUSIONS We could not create a scale that predicts the 5-HTTLPR genotype with sufficient sensitivity and specificity, therefore we could not substitute a psychometric scale for laboratory genetic testing in predicting genotype, and also possibly affective disorder characterisation and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xenia Gonda
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Semmelweis University, Faculty of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
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Holmes AJ, Bogdan R, Pizzagalli DA. Serotonin transporter genotype and action monitoring dysfunction: a possible substrate underlying increased vulnerability to depression. Neuropsychopharmacology 2010; 35:1186-97. [PMID: 20090673 PMCID: PMC2840070 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2009.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A variable number of tandem repeats (short (S) vs long (L)) in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) and a functional variant of a single-nucleotide polymorphism (rs25531) in 5-HTTLPR have been recently associated with increased risk for major depressive disorder (MDD). In particular, relative to L/L or L(A) homozygotes (hereafter referred to as L' participants), S carriers or L(g)-allele carriers (S' participants) have been found to have a higher probability of developing depression after stressful life events, although inconsistencies abound. Previous research indicates that patients with MDD are characterized by executive dysfunction and abnormal activation within the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), particularly in situations requiring adaptive behavioral adjustments following errors and response conflict (action monitoring). The goal of this study was to test whether psychiatrically healthy S' participants would show abnormalities similar to those of MDD subjects. To this end, 19 S' and 14 L' participants performed a modified Flanker task known to induce errors, response conflict, and activations in various ACC subdivisions during functional magnetic resonance imaging. As hypothesized, relative to L' participants, S' participants showed (1) impaired post-error and post-conflict behavioral adjustments; (2) larger error-related rostral ACC activation; and (3) lower conflict-related dorsal ACC activation. As similar behavioral and neural dysfunctions have been recently described in MDD patient samples, the current results raise the possibility that impaired action monitoring and associated ACC dysregulation may represent risk factors increased vulnerability to depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avram J Holmes
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
| | - Ryan Bogdan
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Diego A Pizzagalli
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA,Department of Psychology, Harvard University, 1220 William James Hall, 33 Kirkland Street, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA, Tel: +1 671 496 8896, Fax: +1 617 495 3728, E-mail:
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Anderson ER, Mayes LC. Race/ethnicity and internalizing disorders in youth: a review. Clin Psychol Rev 2010; 30:338-48. [PMID: 20071063 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2009.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2009] [Revised: 12/18/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This review examines the impact of race/ethnicity and cultural differences in the presentation and prevalence rates of internalizing disorders in youth, as well as a variety of associated factors. There is robust support for higher prevalence rates of depression and anxiety in ethnic minority youth living in the United States. Gender differences are consistent across ethnicity, but symptom presentation, biological factors, and family processes vary somewhat by ethnic group. Environmental factors and acculturation are considered in relation to internalizing disorders in ethnic minority youth. Several problems with the literature are outlined. Several recommendations are made including better operationalization of internalizing disorders in the DSM and key issues that warrant being added to background text in the DSM. A research agenda is outlined to address possible mechanisms by which culture and race/ethnicity impact internalizing symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Anderson
- Yale University Child Study Center, New Haven, CT 06520, United States.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT-P) polymorphism and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have shown diverse results among different populations, which might be due to racial and ethnic difference. AIM This study was to investigate the potential association between the SERT-P polymorphism and clinical subtypes of IBS patients in the Indian population. METHOD This prospective case-control study included 151 IBS patients. Ninety-two patients were diarrhea-predominant IBS, 44 were constipation-predominant IBS (C-IBS), 15 were alternating diarrhea and constipation IBS, and 100 were healthy controls. SERT gene polymorphism was studied by polymerase chain reaction. RESULT A genotypic association was observed between SS genotype of SERT-P polymorphism and C-IBS (P<0.05). When the L/S and L/L genotypes were combined into one group, the frequency of the S/S genotype was significantly higher than that of the non-S/S genotype between C-IBS and the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the SERT-P genotype and allele frequency between c-ibs, alternating diarrhea and constipation IBS, all types of IBS cases, and controls. CONCLUSIONS A significant association was observed between the SS genotype of SERT-P polymorphism and C-IBS in the Indian population.
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Demiralay C, Husemann J, Koelsch W, Yassouridis A, Wiedemann K, Kellner M. Does 5-HTTLPR genotype influence willingness to participate in panic challenges? Depress Anxiety 2009; 26:E68-70. [PMID: 19105220 DOI: 10.1002/da.20450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Weese-Mayer DE, Berry-Kravis EM, Ceccherini I, Rand CMC. Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS): kindred disorders of autonomic regulation. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2009; 164:38-48. [PMID: 18579454 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2008.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2008] [Revised: 05/12/2008] [Accepted: 05/13/2008] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) were long considered rare disorders of respiratory control and more recently have been highlighted as part of a growing spectrum of disorders within the rubric of autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation (ANSD). CCHS typically presents in the newborn period with a phenotype including alveolar hypoventilation, symptoms of ANSD and, in a subset of cases, Hirschsprung disease and later tumors of neural crest origin. Study of genes related to autonomic dysregulation and the embryologic origin of the neural crest led to the discovery of PHOX2B as the disease-defining gene for CCHS. Like CCHS, SIDS is thought to result from central deficits in control of breathing and ANSD, although SIDS risk is most likely defined by complex multifactorial genetic and environmental interactions. Some early genetic and neuropathological evidence is emerging to implicate serotonin systems in SIDS risk. The purpose of this article is to review the current understanding of the genetic basis for CCHS and SIDS, and discuss the impact of this information on clinical practice and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra E Weese-Mayer
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Center for Autonomic Medicine in Pediatrics, Children's Memorial Hospital, 2300 Children's Plaza, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.
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Munafò MR, Freimer NB, Ng W, Ophoff R, Veijola J, Miettunen J, Järvelin MR, Taanila A, Flint J. 5-HTTLPR genotype and anxiety-related personality traits: a meta-analysis and new data. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2009; 150B:271-81. [PMID: 18546120 PMCID: PMC2819421 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.30808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the strength of evidence for association of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and the personality trait of Harm Avoidance. We used new primary data from a large sample of adults drawn from the Finnish population. We also applied meta-analytic techniques to synthesize existing published data. The large number of studies of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism allowed us to apply a formal test of publication bias, as well as formally investigate the impact of potential moderating factors such as measurement instrument. Univariate ANOVA of primary data (n = 3,872), with 5-HTTLPR genotype as a between-groups factor, indicated no evidence of association with Harm Avoidance (P = 0.99). Meta-analysis indicated no evidence of significant association of 5-HTTLPR with Harm Avoidance (d = 0.02, P = 0.37), or EPQ Neuroticism (d = 0.01, P = 0.71), although there was evidence of association with NEO Neuroticism (d = 0.18, P < 0.001). Our analyses indicate that the 5-HTTLPR variant is not associated with Harm Avoidance. Together with our previous analyses of a large sample of participants with extreme Neuroticism scores (defined by the EPQ), we have data that excludes a meaningful genetic effect of the 5-HTTLPR on two measures of anxiety-related personality traits. There remains the possibility that the variant influences the NEO personality questionnaire measure of Neuroticism. However, a large, well-powered primary study is required to test this hypothesis directly and adequately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus R Munafò
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Bristol, United Kingdom.
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Gonda X, Fountoulakis KN, Juhasz G, Rihmer Z, Lazary J, Laszik A, Akiskal HS, Bagdy G. Association of the s allele of the 5-HTTLPR with neuroticism-related traits and temperaments in a psychiatrically healthy population. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2009; 259:106-13. [PMID: 18806915 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-008-0842-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2007] [Accepted: 07/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research concerning the genetic background of traits, temperaments and psychiatric disorders has been rapidly expanding. One of the most frequently studied genetic polymorphisms in the background of psychological and psychiatric phenomena is the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene which has earlier been found to be associated with neuroticism and neuroticism-related traits and disorders. However, both the neuroticism trait and psychiatric disorders are complex and composed of several subfacets. The aim of our study was to investigate the association of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism with several smaller, distinct and better characterisable phenomena related to the neuroticism trait. METHODS 169 healthy females participated in the study. All participants completed the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory (BDHI), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), The Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (ZSDS), the Beck Hopelessness Scale, the SCL-51, the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) and the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego (TEMPS-A) questionnaire. All subjects were genotyped for the 5-HTTLPR using PCR. Data were analysed with ANOVA and MANCOVA with age as a covariate. RESULTS We found that the presence of the s allele was significantly associated with anxiety, depression, hopelessness, guilt, hostility, aggression, presence of neurotic symptoms, self-directedness and affective temperaments carrying a depressive component even when controlling for age. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first that confirms that traits and characteristics related to neuroticism, such as increased anxiety, depression, hopelessness, somatization, feeling of guilt, hostility, aggression, lack of self-directedness and affective temperament are consistently and independently associated with the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene. Our study therefore suggests that neuroticism can be considered a unified construct not only from a phenotypical but also from a genetic point of view and 5HTTLPR can be considered one component of its polygenic background. Our results thus yield further insight into the role of the 5-HTTLPR in the background of neuroticism and neuroticism-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xenia Gonda
- Dept. of Clinical and Theoretical Mental Health, Kutvolgyi Clinical Centre, Semmelweis University, Kutvolgyi ut 4, 1125, Budapest, Hungary.
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Gonda X, Fountoulakis KN, Rihmer Z, Lazary J, Laszik A, Akiskal KK, Akiskal HS, Bagdy G. Towards a genetically validated new affective temperament scale: a delineation of the temperament phenotype of 5-HTTLPR using the TEMPS-A. J Affect Disord 2009; 112:19-29. [PMID: 18455241 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2008.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2008] [Revised: 03/19/2008] [Accepted: 03/19/2008] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it has been described that affective temperaments are associated with the 5-HTTLPR, less attention was paid to the association between this polymorphism and subscales and items related to each affective temperament. The aim of our study was to investigate the association of affective temperament subscales and individual items with the s allele of the 5-HTTLPR. METHOD 138 psychiatrically healthy women completed the TEMPS-A questionnaire and were genotyped for 5-HTTLPR. Scores of subjects on the temperament scales, subscales and items in the three genotype and the two phenotype groups were compared using ANOVA. We selected items with significantly different mean scores between the three genotype groups and the two phenotype groups separately and performed item analysis. RESULTS Subjects in the different 5-HTTLPR genotype and phenotype groups have significantly different score on scales measuring depressive, cyclothymic, irritable and anxious temperaments, and several subscales composing these temperamental scales. Subjects in the three genotype groups scored significantly different on 11 items, 8 of these remained in a derived genotype scale after item analysis. Subjects in the two phenotype groups had significantly different scores on 12 items, 9 of them were retained in a derived phenotype scale after item analysis. LIMITATIONS Our sample was relatively small and included only women. CONCLUSIONS Our data provide support for the association of affective temperaments with the s allele. Although the cyclothymic temperament shows the strongest association, all temperaments within the depressive superfactor have a similar share in this association. The newly derived 5-HTTLPR Phenotype Scale shows strong association with 5-HTTLPR genotype and phenotype, therefore this scale should be further investigated in relation to psychiatric disorders, as well as psychological traits and temperaments.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Gonda
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Faculty of Medicine, Kutvolgyi Clinical Centre,1089 Budapest Nagyvarad ter 4, Hungary.
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Wegener I, Wawrzyniak A, Imbierowicz K, Conrad R, Musch J, Geiser F, Wermter F, Liedtke R. Evidence for attenuated affective processing in obesity. Psychol Rep 2008; 103:35-47. [PMID: 18982934 DOI: 10.2466/pr0.103.1.35-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Attenuated affective processing is hypothesized to play a role in the development and maintenance of obesity. Using an affective priming task measuring automatic affective processing of verbal stimuli, a group of 30 obese participants in a weight-loss program at the Psychosomatic University Clinic Bonn (M age = 48.3, SD = 10.7) was compared with a group of 25 participants of normal weight (M age = 43.6, SD = 12.5). A smaller affective priming effect was observed for participants with obesity, indicating less pronounced reactions to valenced adjectives. The generally reduced affective processing in obese participants was discussed as a possible factor in the etiology of obesity. Individuals who generally show less pronounced affective reactions to a given stimulus may also react with less negative affect when confronted with weight gain or less positive affect when weight is lost. Consequently, they could be expected to be less motivated to stop overeating or to engage in dieting and will have a higher risk of becoming or staying obese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Wegener
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy University of Bonn, Germany.
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Noskova T, Pivac N, Nedic G, Kazantseva A, Gaysina D, Faskhutdinova G, Gareeva A, Khalilova Z, Khusnutdinova E, Kovacic DK, Kovacic Z, Jokic M, Seler DM. Ethnic differences in the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) in several European populations. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2008; 32:1735-9. [PMID: 18700161 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2008.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2008] [Revised: 07/09/2008] [Accepted: 07/16/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) is a protein that has a major role in divergent psychiatric disorders, personality traits and behaviors, by regulating serotonergic synaptic function. Transcriptional activity of the 5-HTT gene (5-HTT or SLC6A4) is modulated by a polymorphic repetitive element (5-HTT gene-linked polymorphic region, 5-HTTLPR), which consists of a 44-base pairs insertion-deletion in the promoter region, creating a short (S) allele and a long (L) allele. Ethnic differences in the allele frequencies of the 5-HTTLPR exist between Caucasian and Asian populations. This study investigated ethnic differences in 5-HTTLPR in 1804 healthy Caucasian subjects from several European populations living in Croatia and the Russian Federation. The genotype and allele frequency of the 5-HTTLPR differed significantly (P<0.001) between male and female Croats, Russians, Tatars and Bashkirs, due to the lower frequency of the S allele (38% and 37%) and S/S genotype (14% and 15%) in Croat men and women compared to other studied groups. When male and female data were collapsed, Russians had marginally different allele and genotype distribution compared to Bashkirs and Tatars. Bashkirs and Tatars had similar allele and genotype frequency. The higher frequency of the S/S genotype was found in Tatars and Bashkirs compared to Croats and Russians. Gender related differences occurred only in the allele distribution within Bashkir population. These ethnic differences might be responsible for the inconsistent findings in the studies of the association between various psychiatric disorders, personality traits, behaviors and 5-HTTLPR across different ethnicities, and should be controlled to enable the generalization of results across various population groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana Noskova
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics, Ufa Scientific Centre, RAS, 71 Octyabrya Avenue, Ufa, 450054, Russia
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Yamano E, Isowa T, Nakano Y, Matsuda F, Hashimoto-Tamaoki T, Ohira H, Kosugi S. Association study between reward dependence temperament and a polymorphism in the phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase gene in a Japanese female population. Compr Psychiatry 2008; 49:503-7. [PMID: 18702937 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2008.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2007] [Revised: 03/01/2008] [Accepted: 03/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cloninger's theory is that specific dimensions of temperament are associated with single neurotransmitter systems, and it is based on neurophysiologic and genetic approaches to the human traits. It suggests that overexpression of temperament could cause psychiatric illness. Based on this theory, we examined the correlation between reward dependence (RD) trait, measured with the Temperament and Character Inventory, and 5 polymorphisms in genes of norepinephrine pathways, ADRB1, COMT, PNMT, SLC18A1, and SLC6A2, in 85 Japanese female nursing students. We found that rs3764351 in PNMT was significantly associated with RD on Fisher's exact test (P = .029, P(corr) = .236). When haplotype analysis was performed for rs3764351 and rs876493 polymorphisms in the 5' flanking region of PNMT, 3 haplotypes were identified. Rs3764351 itself appeared to be correlated with RD in the present study of a specific population, although we could not demonstrate an association between RD and any of the haplotypes. Our findings have implications for the understanding of temperament using neurophysiologic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Yamano
- Department of Genome Epidemiology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Public Health, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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Gilissen R, Bakermans-Kranenburg MJ, van IJzendoorn MH, Linting M. Electrodermal reactivity during the Trier Social Stress Test for children: Interaction between the serotonin transporter polymorphism and children's attachment representation. Dev Psychobiol 2008; 50:615-25. [DOI: 10.1002/dev.20314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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O'Gara C, Knight J, Stapleton J, Luty J, Neale B, Nash M, Heuzo-Diaz P, Hoda F, Cohen S, Sutherland G, Collier D, Sham P, Ball D, McGuffin P, Craig I. Association of the serotonin transporter gene, neuroticism and smoking behaviours. J Hum Genet 2008; 53:239-246. [PMID: 18188666 DOI: 10.1007/s10038-007-0243-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2007] [Accepted: 12/15/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette consumption and smoking cessation are influenced in part by genes. Personality traits have also been implicated in the aetiology of smoking. Neuroticism, a personality trait with a heritable component, correlates well with anxiety and depression, increasing the risk of being a smoker and decreasing the chance of smoking cessation. Several prior studies in non-British populations have given conflicting results as to whether some genetic polymorphisms affect the relationship between smoking and neuroticism. This study investigated the influence of serotonin transporter (5HTTLPR) genotypes on a composite measure of neuroticism and cigarette consumption/smoking cessation in a British population. Although neuroticism was significantly associated with cigarette consumption and smoking cessation, genotype did not affect this relationship. Our results do not support initial interest in utilising 5HTTLPR genotypes in combination with neuroticism ratings for predicting outcome in smoking cessation clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin O'Gara
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK.
- St. John of God Hospital, Stillorgan, Co Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Jo Knight
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - John Stapleton
- Tobacco Research Unit, National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Jason Luty
- South Essex Partnership NHS Trust, The Taylor Centre, Queensway House, Essex Street, Southend on Sea, Essex, SS4 1RB, UK
| | - Ben Neale
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Matt Nash
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Patricia Heuzo-Diaz
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Farzana Hoda
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Sarah Cohen
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Gay Sutherland
- Tobacco Research Unit, National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - David Collier
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Pak Sham
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - David Ball
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Peter McGuffin
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Ian Craig
- MRC Social Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Research Centre, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
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Ribasés M, Fernández-Aranda F, Gratacòs M, Mercader JM, Casasnovas C, Núñez A, Vallejo J, Estivill X. Contribution of the serotoninergic system to anxious and depressive traits that may be partially responsible for the phenotypical variability of bulimia nervosa. J Psychiatr Res 2008; 42:50-7. [PMID: 17055531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2006.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2006] [Revised: 07/31/2006] [Accepted: 09/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Eating disorders (ED), such as anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN), are complex psychiatric phenotypes influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. We investigated the genetic contribution of four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the serotonin receptor 5HT2C and two sequence variants within the serotonin transporter SLC6A4 to different ED-related psychopathological symptoms in a total sample of 82 ED patients. All patients were diagnosed according to DSM-IV criteria and underwent diagnostic and psychopathological assessments by means of structured clinical interviews and rating scales. We detected significant evidence of association between the -995A/-759T/-697C/Cys23 haplotype of the 5HT2C gene and different anxious and depressive subscales of the SCL90-R instrument, that included Somatization (p = 0.029), Obsessive-Compulsiveness (p = 0.021), Depression (p = 0.032), Anxiety (p = 0.004), Hostility (p = 0.028), Phobic Anxiety (p = 0.029) and Paranoid Ideation (p = 0.008), in BN patients. We also observed a strong association between the 5HTTLPR polymorphism of the SLC6A4 gene and Anxiety in the same group of BN patients (p = 0.004). However, no epistatic effects between the 5HT2C and SLC6A4 genes on the different anxious and depressive subscales were observed. Our preliminary data suggest that the serotoninergic system contributes to the different psychopathological symptoms that may be partially responsible for the phenotypical variability within the bulimic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Ribasés
- Genes and Disease Program, Center for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Wachleski C, Blaya C, Salum GA, Vargas V, Leistner-Segal S, Manfro GG. Lack of association between the serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and personality traits in asymptomatic patients with panic disorder. Neurosci Lett 2008; 431:173-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2007.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2007] [Revised: 11/05/2007] [Accepted: 11/29/2007] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Heyer NJ, Echeverria D, Farin FM, Woods JS. The association between serotonin transporter gene promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR), self-reported symptoms, and dental mercury exposure. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2008; 71:1318-26. [PMID: 18686203 PMCID: PMC2612706 DOI: 10.1080/15287390802240850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The associations between a polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR), dental mercury exposure, and self-reported symptoms were evaluated among 157 male dentists and 84 female dental assistants. Self-reported symptoms and detailed work histories were obtained by computerized questionnaire. Spot urine samples were collected and analyzed for mercury concentrations to evaluate recent exposures, whereas a chronic mercury exposure index was created from the work histories. 5-HTTLPR polymorphism status was determined using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay. Scores for current, recent, and chronic self-reported symptom groups were evaluated with respect to recent and chronic mercury exposure and 5-HTTLPR polymorphism status. Multiple regression analysis controlled for age, socioeconomic status, tobacco and alcohol use, self-reported health problems, and medications. Analyses were restricted to Caucasian subjects due to the highly skewed distribution of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism. Separate evaluations were conducted for dentists and dental assistants. In contrast to previous reports, no consistent associations were found between either urinary mercury concentration or the chronic index of mercury exposure and any category of symptoms. However, both significant and consistent associations were observed between increased symptoms and the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism involving two copies of the short or "s" allele (full mutation), but not with the polymorphism involving only one copy (heterozygous), demonstrating a gene-dose relationship for symptom reporting. These findings suggest that within this restricted population increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and memory are associated with the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism among both males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Heyer
- Battelle Centers for Public Health Research and Evaluation, Seattle, Washington 98109-3598, USA.
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Serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and anxiety reactivity in daily life: a daily process approach to gene-environment interaction. Psychosom Med 2007; 69:762-8. [PMID: 17942837 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0b013e318157ad42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test whether individuals with at least one copy of the short (S) or long (L)(G) allele of the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) exhibit greater increases in anxiety, compared with L(A)L(A) individuals, under periods of high daily stress. Although this common polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene has been identified as a vulnerability factor for anxiety, findings in the literature are mixed. Discrepant findings could be explained by recent research showing that 5-HTTLPR is functionally triallelic (L(A) versus L(G) or S), rather than biallelic (L versus S). Mixed findings could also result from a lack of attention to diathesis-stress models, whereby genetic vulnerability is considered latent until activated by stress (gene-environment interplay). Based on this model, we argue that genotype differences in anxiety should be stronger in the presence of stress. METHODS A total of 350 college students recorded their daily stressors and mood for two 30-day periods, separated by 1 year. RESULTS Across both years, diathesis-stress patterns were observed for reports of anxious mood as a function of 5-HTTLPR. Individuals with at least one copy of the S or L(G) allele at 5-HTTLPR experienced elevated anxious mood on days with more intense stressors, as compared with those who were L(A) homozygotes. Genotype differences in anxiety were less apparent on low stress days. No consistent allelic association of 5-HTTLPR was observed with any other mood states, trait anxiety, or neuroticism. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the potential value of focusing on genetic vulnerability in the context of everyday environmental triggers.
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Brummett BH, Boyle SH, Siegler IC, Kuhn CM, Ashley-Koch A, Jonassaint CR, Züchner S, Collins A, Williams RB. Effects of environmental stress and gender on associations among symptoms of depression and the serotonin transporter gene linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR). Behav Genet 2007; 38:34-43. [PMID: 17955359 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-007-9172-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2007] [Accepted: 09/28/2007] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The short (s) variant of the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene linked functional polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) is associated with depression. Stressful life events, gender, and race have been shown to moderate this association. We examined the relationship between 5-HTTLPR genotype and symptoms of depression in two samples. Study 1 = 288 participants from a study of caregiver stress; and Study 2 = 142 participants from a study examining psychosocial stressors, genetics, and health. Main effects of 5-HTTLPR on symptoms of depression were examined, along with moderation by stress (caregiving status or low childhood socioeconomic status (SES), gender, and race. The 5-HTTLPR x stress group x gender interaction was significant in both samples (P < 0.003, and P < 0.008, respectively). For females, the s allele, combined with caregiving stress (Study 1) or low childhood SES (Study 2), was associated with higher depression scores as compared to participants in the non-stressor group and those with the long (l) allele; whereas, in males, the l allele, combined with a stressor, was associated with higher depression scores as compared to those in the non-stressor group and those with the s allele. Findings from two independent samples suggest that the association of 5-HTTLPR with depression varies according to gender and stressful life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly H Brummett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Box 2969, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Perez M, Burns AB, Brown JS, Sachs-Ericsson N, Plant A, Joiner TE. Associations of serotonin transporter genotypes to components of the tripartite model of depression and anxiety. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2006.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Weese-Mayer DE, Ackerman MJ, Marazita ML, Berry-Kravis EM. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: review of implicated genetic factors. Am J Med Genet A 2007; 143A:771-88. [PMID: 17340630 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.31722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Genetic studies in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have been motivated by clinical, epidemiological, and/or neuropathological observations in SIDS victims, with subsequent pursuit of candidate genes in five categories: (1) genes for ion channel proteins based on electrocardiographic evidence of prolonged QT intervals in SIDS victims, (2) gene for serotonin transporter based on decreased serotonergic receptor binding in brainstems of SIDS victims, (3) genes pertinent to the early embryology of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) (and with a link to the 5-HT system) based on reports of ANS dysregulation in SIDS victims, (4) genes for nicotine metabolizing enzymes based on evidence of cigarette smoking as a modifiable risk factor for SIDS, and (5) genes regulating inflammation, energy production, hypoglycemia, and thermal regulation based on reports of postnatal infection, low birth weight, and/or overheating in SIDS victims. Evidence for each of these classes of candidate genes is reviewed in detail. As this review indicates, a number of genetically controlled pathways appear to be involved in at least some cases of SIDS. Given the diversity of results to date, genetic studies support the clinical impression that SIDS is heterogeneous with more than one entity and with more than one possible genetic etiology. Future studies should consider expanded phenotypic features that might help clarify the heterogeneity and improve the predictive value of the identified genetic factors. Such features should be evaluated to the extent possible in both SIDS victims and their family members. With 2,162 infants dying from SIDS in 2003 in the U.S. alone, and improved but still imperfect parent and caretaker compliance with known modifiable risk factors for SIDS, it behooves clinicians, researchers, and parents to combine efforts to reach a common goal. The message of the "Back to Sleep" campaign needs to be re-introduced/re-engineered to reach families and caretakers of all ethnic groups. Clinicians and researchers need to gently inform new SIDS parents about the opportunity to contribute tissue to the NICHD-funded University of Maryland Brain and Tissue Bank. By expanding the network of clinicians, scientists, and families working together, and by combined efforts in a collaborative multi-center study of candidate genes and/or genomics, the discovery of the genetic profile of the infant at risk for SIDS can ultimately be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra E Weese-Mayer
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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Mirza NR, Nielsen EØ, Troelsen KB. Serotonin transporter density and anxiolytic-like effects of antidepressants in mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2007; 31:858-66. [PMID: 17335951 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2007.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2006] [Revised: 01/12/2007] [Accepted: 01/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic treatment with the dual serotonin/noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) duloxetine reduces the density of serotonin transporter sites in cortex and engenders an anxiolytic-like response. To determine the reproducibility of these effects and their generality to other antidepressants we compared the effects of chronic duloxetine treatment with another SNRI, venlafaxine, and two selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, paroxetine and fluoxetine. METHODS Separate groups of mice were administered vehicle, fluoxetine (15 mg/kg), paroxetine, duloxetine or venlafaxine (10 mg/kg) perorally twice daily for 28 days and tested in the mouse zero-maze and in motility cages on days 21 and 22, respectively, to determine effects on anxiety and motor activity. On day 28 brains were analysed for serotonin transporter (SERT) density in cortex and noradrenaline transporter (NET) density in cortex and hippocampus. RESULTS Duloxetine and fluoxetine both reduced SERT density in cortex and induced anxiolytic-like effects. Paroxetine had an identical profile, but it is unclear if this drug down-regulated the SERT since extensive washing of cortical tissue did not remove all drug. Venlafaxine had no effect on behavioural or biochemical parameters. Only duloxetine reduced NET density in cortex, although not hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS The reduction in SERT density and anxiolytic-like effects with duloxetine, fluoxetine and, potentially, paroxetine suggest that down-regulation of the SERT may be a relevant mechanism in therapeutic response to these antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Mirza
- NeuroSearch A/S, 93 Pederstrupvej, Ballerup, DK-2750, Denmark.
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Abstract
Solute carrier 6 (SLC6) is a gene family of ion-coupled plasma membrane cotransporters, including transporters of neurotransmitters, amino acids, and osmolytes that mediate the movement of their substrates into cells to facilitate or regulate synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter recycling, metabolic function, and fluid homeostasis. Polymorphisms in transporter genes may influence expression and activity of transporters and contribute to behavior, traits, and disease. Determining the relationship between the monoamine transporters and complex psychiatric disorders has been a particular challenge that is being met by evolving approaches. Elucidating the functional consequences of and interactions among polymorphic sites is advancing our understanding of this relationship. Examining the influence of environmental influences, especially early-life events, has helped bridge the gap between genotype and phenotype. Refining phenotypes, through assessment of endophenotypes, specific behavioral tasks, medication response, and brain network properties has also improved detection of the impact of genetic variation on complex behavior and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen K Hahn
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Molecular Neuroscience, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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