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Li X, Zhang W, Ji L, Cao Y. Potential Mechanism Linking Peer Relationships and Adolescent Prosocial Behavior: Mediation of Cognitive Empathy and Moderations of OXTR and DRD2. J Youth Adolesc 2024:10.1007/s10964-024-02023-5. [PMID: 38834755 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-024-02023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Peers are important socializers of adolescent prosocial behavior. Still, the proximal cognitive and emotional process underlying this link and the sources of individual differences in sensitivity to peer influence have yet to be explored. Utilizing the gene-gene-environment (G × G × E) approach and multi-informant measurement, this study investigated how peer relationships operate to influence adolescent prosocial behavior by examining the mediating role of cognitive and emotional empathy, and the moderating role of the OXTR and DRD2 genes. The study utilized longitudinal data from a community sample of Chinese adolescents (N = 1080, Mage = 13.32 years at T1). Results showed that cognitive empathy rather than emotional empathy mediated the link between peer acceptance/rejection and prosocial behavior. Furthermore, the association among peer acceptance, cognitive empathy, and prosocial behavior was moderated by OXTR and DRD2. Specifically, adolescents with the combinations of AA/AA or G/G genotypes of OXTR/DRD2 benefited more from peer acceptance compared to their counterparts carrying other combined genotypes. The findings highlight cognitive empathy as a proximal process linking peer interaction to prosocial behavior and lend support to the interaction between oxytocinergic and dopaminergic systems on environmental sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Li
- Department of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Department of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Linqin Ji
- Department of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yanmiao Cao
- Department of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, Shandong Province, China.
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2
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Ghamari R, Tahmaseb M, Sarabi-Jamab A, Etesami SA, Mohammadzadeh A, Alizadeh F, Tehrani-Doost M. Association of verbal and non-verbal theory of mind abilities with non-coding variants of OXTR in youth with autism spectrum disorder and typically developing individuals: a case-control study. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:30. [PMID: 38191308 PMCID: PMC10773038 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05461-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ability to attribute mental states to others is called theory of mind (ToM) and is a substantial component of social cognition. This ability is abnormally developed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Several studies over the past decade have identified the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) and its variants as promising components for explaining the molecular mechanisms underlying Theory of Mind (ToM). The main aim of this study is to examine the association between rs2268498 and rs53576, two functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and verbal and non-verbal ToM in children and adolescents with ASD and a group of typically developing youth. METHODS The study involved 44 children and adolescents with high-functioning ASD aged 8 to 18 years old and 44 TD individuals who were matched on age and sex. In all participants, blood samples were collected and rs2268498 and rs53576 were genotyped. Happe's Strange Stories test and the moving shapes paradigm were used to measure verbal and non-verbal ToM in all participants. RESULTS The results of permutation tests and logistic regression suggested that in TD group, rs2268498 AA carriers showed significant higher scores in variables representing verbal ToM (ToM stories and appropriateness score) whereas, in ASD group, rs53576 AA carriers exhibited significant better performance in parameters related to non-verbal ToM (ToM general rule and intentionality score). The results of hierarchical clustering in both groups support the findings by distinguishing between language-related and language-independent aspects of ToM. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, we examined the association between rs2268498 and rs53576 and social functioning in individuals with ASD and TD group. We found preliminary evidence that rs2268498 and rs53576 are associated with ToM related abilities in healthy individuals as well as in autistic individuals. Accordingly, rs2268498 and rs53576 may play an important role in predicting ToM capabilities. It will be necessary to conduct further research to address the association of genetic variants with a deficit in ToM in individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Ghamari
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Tahmaseb
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atiye Sarabi-Jamab
- School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Azar Mohammadzadeh
- Research Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, Roozbeh Psychiatry Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Alizadeh
- Department of Genomic Psychiatry and Behavioral Genomics (DGPBG), School of Medicine, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Tehrani-Doost
- Research Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, Roozbeh Psychiatry Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Wang H, Deng Y, Li M, Tao Z, Yu C. Parental Psychological Control, the Parent-Adolescent Relationship, and Non-suicidal Self-Injury Among Chinese Adolescents: The Moderating Effect of the Oxytocin Receptor Gene rs53576 Polymorphism. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023:10.1007/s10578-023-01646-2. [PMID: 38110758 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-023-01646-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Parental psychological control (PPC) is associated with adolescent non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI); however, its underlying mechanisms have not been extensively investigated. Considering that genetic and environmental factors interactively influence adolescent development, this study examined whether the parent-adolescent relationship mediated the link between PPC and adolescent NSSI, and whether this mediating process was moderated by the oxytocin receptor gene rs53576 polymorphism (OXTR rs53576). Participants comprised 673 adolescents (Meanage = 12.81 years, SD = 0.48 years) who completed questionnaires regarding PPC, the parent-adolescent relationship, and NSSI. DNA was extracted from each participant's saliva samples. The results indicated that the positive association between PPC and adolescent NSSI was mediated by the parent-adolescent relationship. Moreover, this indirect link was stronger for adolescents with AA homozygotes of OXTR rs53576 than for those with the GG or AG genotype. These findings extend our understanding of the association between PPC and adolescent NSSI and suggest that a simultaneous focus on PPC, the parent-adolescent relationship, and OXTR rs53576 may favor NSSI interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huahua Wang
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuting Deng
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Meijin Li
- Zhangbian Primary School, Guangzhou, 511446, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiyuan Tao
- School of Psychology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengfu Yu
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
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4
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Liu S, Huang R, Li A, Yu S, Yao S, Xu J, Tang L, Li W, Gan C, Cheng H. The role of the oxytocin system in the resilience of patients with breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1187477. [PMID: 37781188 PMCID: PMC10534028 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1187477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a grave traumatic experience that can profoundly compromise patients' psychological resilience, impacting their overall quality of life. The oxytocin system represents one of the essential neurobiological bases of psychological resilience and plays a critical role in regulating resilience in response to social or traumatic events during adulthood. Oxytocin, through its direct interaction with peripheral or central oxytocin receptors, has been found to have a significant impact on regulating social behavior. However, the precise mechanism by which the activation of peripheral oxytocin receptors leads to improved social is still not completely comprehended and requires additional research. Its activation can modulate psychological resilience by influencing estrogen and its receptors, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thyroid function, 5-hydroxytryptamine metabolism levels, and arginine pressure release in breast cancer patients. Various interventions, including psychotherapy and behavioral measures, have been employed to improve the psychological resilience of breast cancer patients. The potential effectiveness of such interventions may be underpinned by their ability to modulate oxytocin release levels. This review provides an overview of the oxytocin system and resilience in breast cancer patients and identifies possible future research directions and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaochun Liu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Runze Huang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Anlong Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Sheng Yu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Senbang Yao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lingxue Tang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wen Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chen Gan
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Huaidong Cheng
- Department of Oncology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Shenzhen Clinical Medical School of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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5
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Dimitropoulos A, Doernberg EA, Russ SW, Zyga O. Intervention Response by Genetic Subtype: PRETEND-Preschool Program for Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome via Remote Parent Training. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:5191-5206. [PMID: 35932366 PMCID: PMC9361891 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05695-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder associated with social cognitive challenges, and pretend play has been demonstrated as a tool to achieve developmental goals. Following previous report on feasibility and acceptability of a remote, play-based parent-training program (Zyga, Russ, & Dimitropoulos, 2018), we now report on preliminary efficacy of this program to enhance pretend play skills and social cognitive skills in preschoolers with PWS. Results across two studies demonstrated efficacy when live-coaching play sessions incorporated children into the intervention. Increases in play skills were observed for children with the mUPD subtype of PWS who underwent intervention, compared with children with mUPD who were waitlisted. Children with DEL subtype were less likely to respond to intervention. Implications for results are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Olena Zyga
- Cleveland Clinic Center for Autism, Rocky River, OH, USA
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6
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Marazziti D, Diep PT, Carter S, Carbone MG. Oxytocin: An Old Hormone, A Novel Psychotropic Drug And Possible Use In Treating Psychiatric Disorders. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:5615-5687. [PMID: 35894453 DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666220727120646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxytocin is a nonapeptide synthesized in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the hypothalamus. Historically, this molecule has been involved as a key factor in the formation of infant attachment, maternal behavior and pair bonding and, more generally, in linking social signals with cognition, behaviors and reward. In the last decades, the whole oxytocin system has gained a growing interest as it was proposed to be implicated in etiopathogenesis of several neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. METHODS With the main goal of an in-depth understanding of the oxytocin role in the regulation of different functions and complex behaviors as well as its intriguing implications in different neuropsychiatric disorders, we performed a critical review of the current state of art. We carried out this work through PubMed database up to June 2021 with the search terms: 1) "oxytocin and neuropsychiatric disorders"; 2) "oxytocin and neurodevelopmental disorders"; 3) "oxytocin and anorexia"; 4) "oxytocin and eating disorders"; 5) "oxytocin and obsessive-compulsive disorder"; 6) "oxytocin and schizophrenia"; 7) "oxytocin and depression"; 8) "oxytocin and bipolar disorder"; 9) "oxytocin and psychosis"; 10) "oxytocin and anxiety"; 11) "oxytocin and personality disorder"; 12) "oxytocin and PTSD". RESULTS Biological, genetic, and epigenetic studies highlighted quality and quantity modifications in the expression of oxytocin peptide or in oxytocin receptor isoforms. These alterations would seem to be correlated with a higher risk of presenting several neuropsychiatric disorders belonging to different psychopathological spectra. Collaterally, the exogenous oxytocin administration has shown to ameliorate many neuropsychiatric clinical conditions. CONCLUSION Finally, we briefly analyzed the potential pharmacological use of oxytocin in patient with severe symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and immunoregulatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy.,Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Phuoc-Tan Diep
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Lancaster Infirmary, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sue Carter
- Director Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Manuel G Carbone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Division of Psychiatry, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
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7
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He L, Liu J, Fan Y, Leng J, Wang Q, Yang C, zhang R, Guo W, Zhang J, Gong P. The OXTR rs53576 Impacts Moral Permissibility of Attempted but Failed Harms in Populations of Students and Prisoners. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2022; 17:923-928. [PMID: 35275212 PMCID: PMC9527464 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has highlighted the roles of oxytocin in empathy and altruistic behaviors. Based on these findings, recent studies have examined the association between the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) and outcome-based moral judgment with sacrificial dilemmas (e.g. runaway trolley case). However, little is known about the relationships between OXTR polymorphisms and intent-based moral judgment of harms (e.g. attempted but failed harm or intentionally committed harm). This study investigated the association between the OXTR rs53576 and intent-based moral judgment in college students (N = 544) and prisoners (N = 540). Results indicated that both students and prisoners with the GG genotype of OXTR rs53576 rated attempted but failed harm as less permissible than those with the AA and AG genotypes. These findings highlight the role of the OXTR gene in intent-based moral judgment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin He
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Animal Conservation, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Jinting Liu
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Yuhe Fan
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Junhui Leng
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Quanhe Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Cuimei Yang
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Rui zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Wenxuan Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Jieting Zhang
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Pingyuan Gong
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Animal Conservation, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- College of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Institute of Population and Health, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
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8
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Kohlhoff J, Cibralic S, Hawes D, Eapen V. Oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) polymorphisms and social, emotional and behavioral functioning in children and adolescents: a systematic narrative review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104573. [PMID: 35149102 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study systematically reviewed available evidence regarding associations between polymorphisms of the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene and socio-emotional and behavioral functioning in children and adolescents. The search yielded 69 articles, which were grouped into nine categories: depression, anxiety, and internalizing symptoms, alcohol abuse, borderline personality disorder, conduct disorder symptoms or diagnosis, autism spectrum disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, early childhood attachment and behavior, pro-social skills, and resilience. Direct and/or gene x environment interactions were identified in over half of the studies. ASD and conduct disorder (including callous unemotional traits) were the diagnoses that were most studied and for which there was the strongest evidence of direct links with OXTR polymorphisms. In most studies identifying gene x environment interactions, the candidate OXTR polymorphism was rs53576. Results suggest that OXTR polymorphisms are associated with social, emotional or behavioural functioning in children and adolescents. The mixed findings do, however, highlight the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Kohlhoff
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia; Karitane, P.O. Box 241, Villawood NSW 2163, Australia.
| | - Sara Cibralic
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - David Hawes
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia; Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry and Clinical Academic, South West Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Elizabeth Street, Liverpool NSW 2170, Australia.
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9
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Chander RJ, Mather KA, Cleary R, Grainger SA, Thalamuthu A, Numbers K, Kochan NA, Armstrong NJ, Brodaty H, Henry JD, Sachdev PS. The influence of rs53576 polymorphism in the oxytocin receptor ( OXTR) gene on empathy in healthy adults by subtype and ethnicity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Rev Neurosci 2021; 33:43-57. [PMID: 33892530 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Empathy is essential for navigating complex social environments. Prior work has shown associations between rs53576, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located in the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR), and generalized empathy. We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of rs53576 on subdomains of empathy, specifically cognitive empathy (CE) and affective empathy (AE), in healthy adults. Twenty cohorts of 8933 participants aged 18-98 were identified, including data from the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study, a cohort of older community adults. Meta-analyses found G homozygotes had greater generalized empathic abilities only in young to middle-aged adults. While meta-analyses of empathy subdomains yielded no significant overall effects, there were differential effects based on ethnicity. G homozygotes were associated with greater CE abilities in Asian cohorts (standardized mean difference; SMD: 0.09 [2.8·10-3-0.18]), and greater AE performance in European cohorts [SMD: 0.12 (0.04-0.21)]. The current literature highlights a need for further work that distinguishes between genetic and ethnocultural effects and explores effects of advanced age on this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell J Chander
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Karen A Mather
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia
| | - Rhiagh Cleary
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Sarah A Grainger
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Anbupalam Thalamuthu
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Katya Numbers
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nicole A Kochan
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nicola J Armstrong
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.,Discipline of Mathematics and Statistics, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Henry Brodaty
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.,Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration (DCRC), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Julie D Henry
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Perminder S Sachdev
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.,Neuropsychiatric Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
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10
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Caplan B, Blacher J, Eisenhower A, Baker BL, Lee SS. Gene x responsive parenting interactions in social development: Characterizing heterogeneity in autism spectrum disorder. Dev Psychobiol 2021; 63:1082-1097. [PMID: 33511631 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Emerging research suggests that caregiving environments and genetic variants independently contribute to social functioning in children with typical development or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, biologically plausible interactive models and complimentary assessment of mechanisms are needed to: (a) explain considerable social heterogeneity, (b) resolve inconsistencies in the literature, and (c) develop and select optimal treatments based on individual differences. This study examined the role of child genotypes and responsive parenting in the social development of 104 children with ASD (ages 4-7 years). We utilized a longitudinal, multi-informant design and structural equation models to evaluate: (a) the additive and interactive effects of biologically plausible candidate genes (5-HTTLPR, OXTR, DRD4) and responsive parenting in predicting prospective social development in ASD across three time points spanning 1.5 years, and (b) whether child emotion regulation mediated observed gene x environment interactions (GxEs). Responsive parenting positively predicted prospective change in child social skills; these associations were moderated by 5-HTTLPR and DRD4 in teacher-report models, and DRD4 in parent-report models. No GxE effects were found for OXTR. Emotion regulation did not significantly mediate the GxEs involving 5-HTTLPR and DRD4. Acknowledging the complexities of GxE research, implications for future research, and targeted intervention efforts are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Caplan
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jan Blacher
- Department of Education, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Abbey Eisenhower
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bruce L Baker
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steve S Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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11
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ZHANG W, LI X, CHEN G, CAO Y. The relationship between positive parenting and adolescent prosocial behaviour: The mediating role of empathy and the moderating role of the oxytocin receptor gene. ACTA PSYCHOLOGICA SINICA 2021. [DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1041.2021.00976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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12
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Madarevic M, Van Leeuwen K, Warreyn P, Noens I. Conceptualisation of Parenting in Research on Young Children with or at Elevated Likelihood of Autism: a Systematic Review of Observational Measures. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-020-00217-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Antonucci LA, Pergola G, Passiatore R, Taurisano P, Quarto T, Dispoto E, Rampino A, Bertolino A, Cassibba R, Blasi G. The interaction between OXTR rs2268493 and perceived maternal care is associated with amygdala-dorsolateral prefrontal effective connectivity during explicit emotion processing. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 270:553-565. [PMID: 31471679 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-019-01062-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have indicated a link between socio-emotional processing and the oxytocin receptor. In this regard, a single nucleotide polymorphism in the oxytocin receptor coding gene (OXTR rs2268493) has been linked with lower social functioning, increased risk for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and with post-mortem OXTR mRNA expression levels. Indeed, the levels of expression of OXTR in brain regions involved in emotion processing are also associated with maternal care. Furthermore, maternal care has been associated with emotional correlates. Taken together, these previous findings suggest a possible combined effect of rs2268493 and maternal care on emotion-related brain phenotypes. A crucial biological mechanism subtending emotional processing is the amygdala-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) functional connection. On this basis, our aim was to investigate the interaction between rs2268493 and maternal care on amygdala-DLPFC effective connectivity during emotional evaluation. We characterized through dynamic causal modeling (DCM) patterns of amygdala-DLPFC effective connectivity during explicit emotion processing in healthy controls (HC), profiled based on maternal care and rs2268493 genotype. In the whole sample, right top-down DLPFC-to-amygdala pattern was the most likely directional model of effective connectivity. This pattern of connectivity was the most likely for all rs2268493/maternal care subgroups, except for thymine homozygous (TT)/low maternal care individuals. Here, a right bottom-up amygdala-to-DLPFC was the most likely directional model. These results suggest a gene by environment interaction mediated by the oxytocin receptor on biological phenotypes relevant to emotion processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda A Antonucci
- Section for Neurodiagnostic Applications, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität, 80336, Munich, Germany.,Department of Educational Science, Psychology and Communication Science, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70121, Bari, Italy.,Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Giulio Pergola
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Passiatore
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Paolo Taurisano
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.,IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo, 71013, Foggia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Quarto
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Dispoto
- Department of Educational Science, Psychology and Communication Science, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70121, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Rampino
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.,Psychiatry Unit, Bari University Hospital, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bertolino
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.,Psychiatry Unit, Bari University Hospital, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Cassibba
- Department of Educational Science, Psychology and Communication Science, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70121, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Blasi
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70124, Bari, Italy. .,Psychiatry Unit, Bari University Hospital, 70124, Bari, Italy.
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14
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Morphofunctional Alterations of the Hypothalamus and Social Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10070435. [PMID: 32650534 PMCID: PMC7408098 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10070435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An accumulating body of evidence indicates a tight relationship between the endocrine system and abnormal social behavior. Two evolutionarily conserved hypothalamic peptides, oxytocin and arginine-vasopressin, because of their extensively documented function in supporting and regulating affiliative and socio-emotional responses, have attracted great interest for their critical implications for autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A large number of controlled trials demonstrated that exogenous oxytocin or arginine-vasopressin administration can mitigate social behavior impairment in ASD. Furthermore, there exists long-standing evidence of severe socioemotional dysfunctions after hypothalamic lesions in animals and humans. However, despite the major role of the hypothalamus for the synthesis and release of oxytocin and vasopressin, and the evident hypothalamic implication in affiliative behavior in animals and humans, a rather small number of neuroimaging studies showed an association between this region and socioemotional responses in ASD. This review aims to provide a critical synthesis of evidences linking alterations of the hypothalamus with impaired social cognition and behavior in ASD by integrating results of both anatomical and functional studies in individuals with ASD as well as in healthy carriers of oxytocin receptor (OXTR) genetic risk variant for ASD. Current findings, although limited, indicate that morphofunctional anomalies are implicated in the pathophysiology of ASD and call for further investigations aiming to elucidate anatomical and functional properties of hypothalamic nuclei underlying atypical socioemotional behavior in ASD.
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15
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Zyga O, Dimitropoulos A. Preliminary Characterization of Parent-Child Interaction in Preschoolers With Prader-Willi Syndrome: The Relationship Between Engagement and Parental Stress. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 125:76-84. [PMID: 31877257 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-125.1.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Early parent-child interactions (PCI) impact social cognitive development. Relatedly, children with various developmental disorders exhibit abnormal parental attachment relationships. Parental characteristics and behaviors can impact PCI and socioemotional development as well. No research has examined the parent-child dynamic in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), a neurodevelopmental disorder that presents with social cognitive deficits. This article provides a preliminary characterization of PCI quality and parenting stress in 17 PWS parent-child dyads, children ages 3-5 years, in comparison to 20 typically developing children and their parent. Results suggest early PCI disruption in preschoolers with PWS and their parents report increased levels of stress in various domains. These findings have important implications not only on parent well-being in PWS but its impact on child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olena Zyga
- Olena Zyga and Anastasia Dimitropoulos, Case Western Reserve University
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16
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Song Y, Nie T, Shi W, Zhao X, Yang Y. Empathy Impairment in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Conditions From a Multidimensional Perspective: A Meta-Analysis. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1902. [PMID: 31649570 PMCID: PMC6794557 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although empathy has always been considered to be impaired in individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASCs), the relevant findings have been inconsistent. The present meta-analysis aims to determine which empathy components are impaired and how culture, gender, and age moderate such empathy impairment. Methods: By using “Autism,” “Asperger Syndrome,” “Empathy,” and related Chinese synonyms as keywords, we searched the databases of Weipu, Wanfang, CNKI, Web of Science, Science Direct, SpringerLink, and Elsevier through “subject” and “keyword” searches. We also conducted a manual search according to the references. In total, 51 studies from Eastern and Western countries were included in this meta-analysis, which comprised 144 independent effects, 2,095 individuals with ASCs and 2,869 controls without ASCs. For the retrieved data, Hedge's g was taken as the quantitative measure of effect, and CMA V2.0 software was used for publication bias tests (by using Rosenthal's Classic Failsafe-N and Egger's methods), heterogeneity tests (by using a Q-test, I2-test, and H-test) and a moderating effect test (by using a univariate regression model). Results: The results showed that the empathy impairment evident in individuals with ASCs is component specific; that is, trait-cognitive empathy, trait-empathic concern, state-cognitive empathy, and state-empathic concern are impaired, whereas state-empathic accuracy remains intact, and trait-empathic accuracy is superior to the trait-empathic accuracy in neurotypical individuals. The univariate regression model showed that gender moderates the impairment of the trait-empathic concern, trait-empathic accuracy, and state-cognitive empathy in autistic individuals and that age moderates the impairment of the trait-cognitive empathy, trait-empathic accuracy, state-empathic concern, and state-empathic accuracy in autistic individuals. However, culture does not moderate any empathy components (trait-cognitive empathy, trait-empathic concern, or state-cognitive empathy) involved in the present meta-analysis. Conclusions: These findings contribute to ending the controversy over the empathic integrity of individuals with ASCs and shed some light on future research about the empathy impairment of autistic individuals. More specifically, subsequent studies should distinguish specific empathy components and consider the role of gender and age when demonstrating empathy impairment in individuals with ASCs. Moreover, related studies based on Asian collectivist cultural samples and female samples should be further enriched.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youming Song
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Nie
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wendian Shi
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongyong Yang
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
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17
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Baker JK, Fenning RM, Howland MA, Huynh D. Parental criticism and behavior problems in children with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 23:1249-1261. [PMID: 30394790 PMCID: PMC6499715 DOI: 10.1177/1362361318804190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Associations between parent critical attitudes (a component of the Expressed Emotion construct) and behavior problems have been relatively well established in adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder, but use of systems adapted for children with autism spectrum disorder and additional investigations with younger samples are needed. This study examined parental criticism, derived from a population-specific coding system, as related to behavior problems in children with autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 4 and 11 years, and considered parental warmth and children's psychophysiological reactivity as statistical moderators of these associations. In all, 40 children with autism spectrum disorder and their primary caregivers attended a visit involving collection of child electrodermal activity, parent-child interaction, a parent interview from which critical attitudes and warmth were coded, and parent report of child behavior problems. Criticism was directly related to higher child externalizing but not internalizing problems. Parental criticism interacted with warmth in the prediction of internalizing problems such that criticism was only associated with more problems in the context of moderate but not high warmth. Criticism was positively associated with externalizing problems under conditions of moderate and high, but not low, child electrodermal activity reactivity. Implications for conceptualizations of parental criticism in autism spectrum disorder, for understanding comorbid behavior problems in this population, and for intervention are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - David Huynh
- 1 California State University, Fullerton, USA
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18
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Maternal childhood adversity, OXTR genotype and cognitive load impact on perceptual and behavioral responses to infant crying. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 104:195-202. [PMID: 30877985 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The crying of infants elicits aversive feelings and poses a risk for child abuse. Maternal childhood maltreatment can have negative parenting ability consequences and interact with the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) single nucleotide polymorphism (rs53576) to predict maternal response to infant distress stimuli. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of individual vulnerability differences to situational cognitive load in parenting situations. The current study, in which 124 mothers participated in a standardized infant vocalization paradigm, examined three-way interaction on subjective empathy, behavior intention, and handgrip force response to a crying infant. Participants were asked to squeeze a handgrip dynamometer at maximal and half strength while memorizing a meaningless alphabet syllable as the cognitive load manipulation. Significant interactions were also observed between OXTR rs53576, childhood adversity, and cognitive load when predicting excessive force and harsh response intention on hearing a crying infant. These findings suggested that, as the G allele carriers of OXTR rs53576 appear to be susceptible to the effects of severe childhood adversity, inter- and intra-individual approaches are needed when assessing maternal responses to infant stimuli.
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19
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20
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The interaction between oxytocin receptor gene methylation and maternal behavior on children's early theory of mind abilities. Dev Psychopathol 2019; 32:511-519. [PMID: 31030686 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579419000257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Theory of mind, the ability to represent the mental states of others, is an important social cognitive process, which contributes to the development of social competence. Recent research suggests that interactions between gene and environmental factors, such as oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) polymorphisms and maternal parenting behavior, may underlie individual differences in children's theory of mind. However, the potential influence of DNA methylation of OXTR remains unclear. The current study investigated the roles of OXTR methylation, maternal behavior, and their statistical interaction on toddlers' early emerging theory of mind abilities. Participants included a community sample of 189 dyads of mothers and their 2- to 3-year-old children, whose salivary DNA was analyzed. Results indicated that more maternal structuring behavior was associated with better performance, on a battery of three theory of mind tasks, while higher OXTR methylation within exon 3 was associated with poorer performance. A significant interaction also emerged, such that OXTR methylation was related to theory of mind among children whose mothers displayed less structuring, when controlling for children's age, sex, ethnicity, number of child-aged siblings, verbal ability, and maternal education. Maternal structuring behavior may buffer the potential negative impact of hypermethylation on OXTR gene expression and function.
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21
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Parenting behavior and the development of children with autism spectrum disorder. Compr Psychiatry 2019; 90:21-29. [PMID: 30658339 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders in which multiple genetic and environmental factors play roles. Symptoms of deficits in social communication and restrictive, repetitive behavioral patterns emerge early in a child's development. While parents do not cause these difficulties, impairments in social relatedness can strain parent child interactions and parental stress can have negative transactional effects that impede children development. Conversely, as with typically developing children, parental behavior can also enhance development in ASD and parents play a role in many interventions. In this review we examine parental contributions to the development of children with ASD, focusing on social communication and emotion regulation. We address parent and family characteristics that may impede development so they can be identified in families and interventions developed to target them.
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22
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Wilczyński KM, Siwiec A, Janas-Kozik M. Systematic Review of Literature on Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms Within the Oxytocin and Vasopressin Receptor Genes in the Development of Social Cognition Dysfunctions in Individuals Suffering From Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:380. [PMID: 31214061 PMCID: PMC6554290 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [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: 12/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is found in virtually all population groups regardless of ethnic or socioeconomic backgrounds. Among others, dominant symptoms of autism persistent throughout its course of development include, inter alia, qualitative disorders of social communication and social interactions. Numerous studies have been performed on animal models as well as groups of healthy individuals to assess the potential role of oxytocinergic and vasopresynergic systems in normal social functioning. These studies have also discussed their potential participation in the development of social cognition dysfunctions in the course of ASD. This literature review aimed to identify studies examining single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the oxytocin (OXT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor genes and their differential effects on social cognitive dysfunction in the development of ASD. Methods: A systematic review of literature published within the last 10 years and accessible in PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and APA PsycNET databases was conducted by each author separately. Inclusion criteria required that articles should 1) be published between January 2008 and August 2018; 2) be published in English or Polish; 3) be located in periodical publications; 4) focus on the role of polymorphisms within oxytocin and vasopressin receptor genes in autistic population; 5) provide a clear presentation of the applied methodology; and 6) apply proper methodology. Results: From the 491 studies qualified to the initial abstract analysis, 15 met the six inclusion criteria and were included in the full-text review. Conclusions: The analysis of available literature seems to indicate that there is an association between social cognition dysfunctions in the course of autism and selected alleles of polymorphisms within the OXT receptor AVP 1A receptor genes. However, previous studies neither specify the nature of this association in an unequivocal way nor select genotypes that are the basis for this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Maria Wilczyński
- Pediatric Centre of John Paul II in Sosnowiec Sp. z o.o., Sosnowiec, Poland.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of Developmental Age, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Andrzej Siwiec
- Pediatric Centre of John Paul II in Sosnowiec Sp. z o.o., Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Janas-Kozik
- Pediatric Centre of John Paul II in Sosnowiec Sp. z o.o., Sosnowiec, Poland.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of Developmental Age, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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23
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Verona E, Murphy B, Bresin K. Oxytocin-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms, family environment, and psychopathic traits. Personal Disord 2018; 9:584-589. [PMID: 29927293 DOI: 10.1037/per0000290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Multiple studies have linked oxytocin to social behavior and affiliation-attachment. This research would suggest that oxytocin function may relate to the absence of loving kindness and empathy in psychopathy. The current study examined the associations between 3 oxytocin-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), participant-reported invalidating childhood environment, and psychopathic traits in community adults, predicting that alleles associated with higher empathy in the literature would relate to lower levels of psychopathic affective traits in particular. Results showed that the rs53576 SNP on the oxytocin receptor and cumulative risk alleles across the 3 SNPs were associated with psychopathic traits, and the interaction between cumulative risk and an emotionally invalidating environment was associated especially with affective deficits of psychopathy. Although this study requires replication in larger samples, results lend support to the role of attachment-related processes in psychopathy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).
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24
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Augustine ME, Leerkes EM, Smolen A, Calkins SD. Relations between early maternal sensitivity and toddler self-regulation: Exploring variation by oxytocin and dopamine D2 receptor genes. Dev Psychobiol 2018; 60:789-804. [PMID: 29900533 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Gene-by-environment interactions between maternal sensitivity during infancy and child oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR rs53576) and D2 dopamine receptor gene (DRD2 TaqIA, rs1822497) genotypes were explored as predictors of toddlers' well-regulated behavioral and physiological responses to maternal compliance demands. Maternal sensitivity was assessed across a range of mother-child interactions when children were 6 months and 1 year of age (N = 186), and toddler self-regulatory responses were assessed through compliance and vagal withdrawal during a toy clean-up task when children were 2 years of age. Sensitivity-by-OXTR interactions suggested two diathesis-stress patterns, predicting compliance for the GG genotype group, and predicting physiological regulation for the AA/AG genotype group. A main effect for DRD2 genotype indicated that children with an A1 allele displayed less-compliant behavior in toddlerhood. These results suggest that genetic differences may contribute to variation both in risk for self-regulatory difficulties, and in relations between maternal sensitivity and children's responses to compliance demands at different levels of analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mairin E Augustine
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina.,The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Esther M Leerkes
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | | | - Susan D Calkins
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina
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25
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Baker JK, Fenning RM, Erath SA, Baucom BR, Moffitt J, Howland MA. Sympathetic Under-Arousal and Externalizing Behavior Problems in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2018; 46:895-906. [PMID: 28736798 PMCID: PMC5783799 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-017-0332-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly exhibit co-occurring externalizing behavior problems, which can impede learning opportunities and contribute significantly to caregiver stress. Substantial theory and research has linked under-arousal of the sympathetic nervous system to increased externalizing problems in children without ASD, but under-arousal has not been considered as an explanatory mechanism for individual differences among children with ASD. We tested the notion that lower electrodermal activity (EDA) would predict more externalizing problems in children with ASD, and considered the degree to which parent co-regulatory support could buffer this risk. Forty children with ASD between the ages of 4 and 11 years and their primary caregivers participated in a laboratory visit that included various play, compliance, and problem-solving regulatory tasks. EDA was measured through wireless wrist sensors, parental scaffolding was observed during a dyadic problem-solving task, and parents rated their children's externalizing behavior problems. As predicted, low EDA during the compliance-oriented tasks directly predicted higher child externalizing problems. Parental scaffolding moderated the link between under-arousal during the problem-solving regulatory tasks and externalizing problems such that the relation was observed in the context of low, but not high, support. Implications for relevant theories (e.g., fearlessness theory, stimulation-seeking theory) are discussed, and the potential for psychophysiological patterns to inform intervention with these children is considered.
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26
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Andreou D, Comasco E, Åslund C, Nilsson KW, Hodgins S. Maltreatment, the Oxytocin Receptor Gene, and Conduct Problems Among Male and Female Teenagers. Front Hum Neurosci 2018; 12:112. [PMID: 29623035 PMCID: PMC5874495 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2018.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) influences human behavior. The G allele of OXTR rs53576 has been associated with both prosocial and maladaptive behaviors but few studies have taken account of environmental factors. The present study determined whether the association of childhood maltreatment with conduct problems was modified by OXTR rs53576 genotypes. In a general population sample of 1591 teenagers, conduct problems as well as maltreatment were measured by self-report. DNA was extracted from saliva samples. In males, there was a significant positive association between maltreatment and conduct problems independent of the genotype. In females, among G allele carriers, the level of conduct problems was significantly higher among those who had been maltreated as compared to those not maltreated. By contrast, among female AA carriers, conduct problems did not vary between those who were, and who were not, maltreated. The results indicate that OXTR rs53576 plays a role in antisocial behavior in females such that the G allele confers vulnerability for antisocial behavior if they experience maltreatment, whereas the A allele has a protective effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Andreou
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,1st Department of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Erika Comasco
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Åslund
- Centre for Clinical Research, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Kent W Nilsson
- Centre for Clinical Research, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Sheilagh Hodgins
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
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27
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Cataldo I, Azhari A, Esposito G. A Review of Oxytocin and Arginine-Vasopressin Receptors and Their Modulation of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:27. [PMID: 29487501 PMCID: PMC5816822 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) and arginine-vasopressin (AVP) play a key regulatory part in social and affiliative behaviors; two aspects highly compromised in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Furthermore, variants in the adjacent oxytocin-vasopressin gene regions have been found to be associated with ASD diagnosis and endophenotypes. This review focuses mainly on common OXTr single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), AVPR1a microsatellites and AVPR1b polymorphisms in relation to the development of autism. Although these genes did not surface in genome-wide association studies, evidence supports the hypothesis that these receptors and their polymorphisms are widely involved in the regulation of social behavior, and in modulating neural and physiological pathways contributing to the etiology of ASD. With a specific focus on variants considered to be among the most prevalent in the development of ASD, these issues will be discussed in-depth and suggestions to approach inconsistencies in the present literature will be provided. Translational implications and future directions are deliberated from a short-term and a forward-looking perspective. While the scientific community has made significant progress in enhancing our understanding of ASD, more research is required for the ontology of this disorder to be fully elucidated. By supplementing information related to genetics, highlighting the differences across male and female sexes, this review provides a wider view of the current state of knowledge of OXTr and AVPr mechanisms of functioning, eventually addressing future research in the identification of further risk factors, to build new strategies for early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Cataldo
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy.,Mobile and Social Computing Lab, Fondazione Bruno Kessler, Trento, Italy
| | - Atiqah Azhari
- Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy.,Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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28
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KANG Y, CHONG X, WU N. Autism Spectrum Disorders early warning: Occurrence, development and influencing factors of joint attention and empathy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1042.2018.01223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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29
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Baribeau DA, Dupuis A, Paton TA, Scherer SW, Schachar RJ, Arnold PD, Szatmari P, Nicolson R, Georgiades S, Crosbie J, Brian J, Iaboni A, Lerch J, Anagnostou E. Oxytocin Receptor Polymorphisms are Differentially Associated with Social Abilities across Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11618. [PMID: 28912494 PMCID: PMC5599599 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10821-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a pituitary neuropeptide that affects social behaviour. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) have been shown to explain some variability in social abilities in control populations. Whether these variants similarly contribute to the severity of social deficits experienced by children with neurodevelopmental disorders is unclear. Social abilities were assessed in a group of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, n = 341) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, n = 276) using two established social measures. Scores were compared by OXTR genotype (rs53576, rs237887, rs13316193, rs2254298). Unexpectedly, the two most frequently studied OXTR SNPs in the general population (rs53576 and rs2254298) were associated with an increased severity of social deficits in ASD (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0005), yet fewer social deficits in ADHD (p = 0.007 and p < 0.0001). We conclude that these genetic modifier alleles are not inherently risk-conferring with respect to their impact on social abilities; molecular investigations are greatly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annie Dupuis
- Department of Biostatistics Design and Analysis, The Hospital for Sick Children, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tara A Paton
- The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen W Scherer
- The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Russell J Schachar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul D Arnold
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Departments of Psychiatry & Medical Genetics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Peter Szatmari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rob Nicolson
- The Children's Health Research Institute and Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stelios Georgiades
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Chedoke Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Crosbie
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica Brian
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Autism Research Centre, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alana Iaboni
- Autism Research Centre, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason Lerch
- Program in Neuroscience and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. .,Autism Research Centre, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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30
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Gong P, Fan H, Liu J, Yang X, Zhang K, Zhou X. Revisiting the impact of OXTR rs53576 on empathy: A population-based study and a meta-analysis. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 80:131-136. [PMID: 28343138 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin in the brain is related to empathy, which refers to the ability to understand and share others' internal states or responses. Previous studies have investigated the impact of OXTR rs53576, the most intensively examined polymorphism in the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene, on individual differences in empathy. However, these studies produced inconsistent results. In the current study, we reexamined the association of OXTR rs53576 with empathy in a relatively large population (N=1830) and also evaluated the association by a comprehensive meta-analysis (N=6631, 13 independent samples). The replication study indicated that OXTR rs53576 was indeed associated with individual differences in empathy. Individuals with a greater number of G alleles showed better empathic ability, particularly in fantasizing other's feelings and actions. The meta-analysis not only confirmed this association, but also indicated that the impact of this polymorphism was significant in both Europeans and Asians. These findings provide convincing evidence for the impact of OXTR rs53576 on empathy, highlighting the importance of OXTR gene in individuals' social cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingyuan Gong
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory for Animal Conservation, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China.
| | - Huiyong Fan
- College of Education and Sports, Bohai University, Jinzhou 121013, China
| | - Jinting Liu
- Research Center for Brain Function and Psychological Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Kejin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Xiaolin Zhou
- Center for Brain and Cognitive Sciences and School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Behavior and Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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31
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Nishizato M, Fujisawa TX, Kosaka H, Tomoda A. Developmental changes in social attention and oxytocin levels in infants and children. Sci Rep 2017; 7:2540. [PMID: 28566712 PMCID: PMC5451468 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02368-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) signalling represents one of the most critical systems involved in human social behaviour. Although several studies have examined the relationship between social functioning and peripheral OT levels, the association between OT and the development of social attention has not been well studied. Therefore, we investigated the developmental relationship between gaze fixation for social cues and OT levels during young childhood. We examined visual attention using an eye tracking system in infants and children (5-90 months of age) and measured the concentration of OT in saliva samples. We observed a negative association between age and both attention toward social cues and salivary OT levels, and a positive association between age and attention for non-social cues. We also observed that salivary OT levels were modulated by polymorphisms in oxytocin receptor (OXTR) rs53576. Our results suggest that there is an age-dependent association between visual attention for social cues and OT levels in infants and children, and that the development of visual attention to the eyes as social cues is associated with both OXTR polymorphisms and OT levels. Such findings indicate that OT and OXTR status may provide insight into the atypical development of social attention in infants and young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minaho Nishizato
- Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Takashi X Fujisawa
- Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Kosaka
- Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan
| | - Akemi Tomoda
- Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions, United Graduate School of Child Development, University of Fukui, Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui 910-1193, Japan.
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka-Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan.
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Polymorphisms of the oxytocin receptor gene and overeating: the intermediary role of endophenotypic risk factors. Nutr Diabetes 2017; 7:e279. [PMID: 28530679 PMCID: PMC5518806 DOI: 10.1038/nutd.2017.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Oxytocin (OXT) is an evolutionarily ancient neuropeptide with strong links to affiliative and prosocial behaviors, and the management of stress. Increases in OXT also tend to decrease food intake, especially of sweet carbohydrates. The social correlates of low OXT levels mesh with the social deficits and stress proneness identified in interpersonal models of overeating, as well as the increased appetite for highly palatable foods typically seen in chronic overeaters. The objectives of this study were to investigate links between polymorphisms of the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene and overeating, and to examine OXTR links with relevant endophenotypes of overeating related to reward and stress sensitivity, and to food preferences. Subject/Methods: The sample comprised 460 adults between the ages of 25 and 50 years recruited from the community, and representing a broad range of body weights. Overeating, reward and punishment sensitivity, and food preferences, were quantified as composite variables using well-validated questionnaires. In addition, seven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs237878, rs237885, rs2268493, rs2268494, rs2254298, rs53576, rs2268498) of the OXTR gene were genotyped. Results: Analyses identified a four-marker haplotype that was significantly related to food preferences. Individual genotype analyses also found that at least one of the markers was related to each of the phenotypic variables. In addition, an empirically derived structural equation model linking genetic and phenotype variables produced a good fit to the data. Conclusions: The results of this preliminary study have demonstrated that OXTR variation is associated with overeating, and with endophenotypic traits such as sweet and fatty food preferences, and reward and punishment sensitivity. In general, the genetic findings also favor the view that overeating may be associated with relatively low basal OXT levels.
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