1
|
Association of the DRD4 exon III and 5-HTTLPR VNTR polymorphisms with substance abuse in Jordanian Arab population. Gene 2019; 733:144267. [PMID: 31809838 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.144267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Genetic variations in the dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) gene and the serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) gene are involved in the aetiology of substance abuse disorder (SUD). The main aim of this study is to evaluate the genetic association of DRD4 (48 bp-VNTR) and SLC6A4 (rs25531 and 5-HTTLPR VNTR) gene polymorphisms with SUD susceptibility among the Jordanian Arab population. This study included 500 SUD patients and 500 healthy matched controls. The VNTR Genetic polymorphisms of DRD4 and SLC6A4 genes were genotyped using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). While, the rs25531 SNP was genotyped using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. The genetic association was analysed using different statistical analyses including chi-square, Fisher exact test and one way ANOVA test. The DRD4 exon III VNTR polymorphism was associated with SUD significantly in case of alleles 4, 7 and genotype 7/7 (P = 0.004, 0.0005 and 0.01, respectively). While, there was no genetic association between the 5-HTTLPR (LL, LS, SS), rs25331 (AA, AG, GG) and tri-allelic (SASA, LASG, LASA, LALG, LALA) genotypes (P = 0.26, 0.71 and 0.52, respectively) and SUD. Moreover, using multinomial regression analysis, the homozygous 7/7 and 2/2 VNTR genotypes of DRD4 gene were nominally significantly associated with a lower risk of addiction (OR = 0.285 with P = 0.003 and OR = 0.447 with P = 0.031, respectively) after adjusting for other covariates. Our findings showed that 4 and 7 repeats and the genotype 7/7 of DRD4 exon III VNTRs polymorphism are involved in the aetiology of SUD among Jordanian population in compared to the 5-HTTLPR polymorphisms.
Collapse
|
2
|
Oreland L, Lagravinese G, Toffoletto S, Nilsson KW, Harro J, Robert Cloninger C, Comasco E. Personality as an intermediate phenotype for genetic dissection of alcohol use disorder. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2018; 125:107-130. [PMID: 28054193 PMCID: PMC5754455 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-016-1672-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental interactive influences on predisposition to develop alcohol use disorder (AUD) account for the high heterogeneity among AUD patients and make research on the risk and resiliency factors complicated. Several attempts have been made to identify the genetic basis of AUD; however, only few genetic polymorphisms have consistently been associated with AUD. Intermediate phenotypes are expected to be in-between proxies of basic neuronal biological processes and nosological symptoms of AUD. Personality is likely to be a top candidate intermediate phenotype for the dissection of the genetic underpinnings of different subtypes of AUD. To date, 38 studies have investigated personality traits, commonly assessed by the Cloninger's Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ) or Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), in relation to polymorphisms of candidate genes of neurotransmitter systems in alcohol-dependent patients. Particular attention has been given to the functional polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR), however, leading to contradictory results, whereas results with polymorphisms in other candidate monoaminergic genes (e.g., tryptophan hydroxylase, serotonin receptors, monoamine oxidases, dopamine receptors and transporter) are sparse. Only one genome-wide association study has been performed so far and identified the ABLIM1 gene of relevance for novelty seeking, harm avoidance and reward dependence in alcohol-dependent patients. Studies investigating genetic factors together with personality could help to define more homogenous subgroups of AUD patients and facilitate treatment strategies. This review also urges the scientific community to combine genetic data with psychobiological and environmental data to further dissect the link between personality and AUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Oreland
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, BMC, Box 593, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gianvito Lagravinese
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, BMC, Box 593, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Simone Toffoletto
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, BMC, Box 593, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kent W Nilsson
- Centre for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, Västmanland County Counci, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Jaanus Harro
- Division of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Psychology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Psychiatry Clinic, North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - C Robert Cloninger
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, BMC, Box 593, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
A review of 5-HT transporter linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism and associations with alcohol use problems and sexual risk behaviors. J Community Genet 2016; 7:1-10. [PMID: 26338666 PMCID: PMC4715809 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-015-0253-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use and sexual risk behaviors are multidimensional phenomena involving many genetic and environmental factors. 5-HT transporter linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism constitutes an important factor affecting alcohol use problems and risky sexual behaviors. This paper narratively reviews studies on 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and its associations with alcohol use problems and sexual risk behaviors. We searched the electronic databases, PubMed, Ovid, and Google Scholar for articles using MeSH terms. Relevant articles were reviewed and eligible articles were selected for the study. Many studies have reported a significant but moderate association between 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and alcohol use problems. These studies have implicated the presence of at least one S allele to be associated with significant increases in alcohol use problems. Similarly, some studies associate the S allele with increased sexual risk behaviors. Effective alcohol cessation initiatives and STI/HIV prevention programs should be modified to account for 5-HTTLPR polymorphism before planning interventions; genetic effects could moderate the intervention effect.
Collapse
|
4
|
Vaht M, Merenäkk L, Mäestu J, Veidebaum T, Harro J. Serotonin transporter gene promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and alcohol use in general population: interaction effect with birth cohort. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:2587-94. [PMID: 24408213 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3427-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE Prevalence of alcohol use is markedly influenced by socioeconomic conditions and is therefore subject to cohort effects. The common genetic variation 5-HTTLPR (serotonin transporter gene-linked polymorphic region) has been related to several aspects of alcohol use and addiction but with mixed results, probably due to different environmental interaction effects. We aimed at assessing whether the association between alcohol use and 5-HTTLPR genotype is subject to cohort effects as birth cohorts may be raised in significantly different environments. METHODS We used the database of the Estonian Children Personality Behaviour and Health Study (beginning in 1998). Cohorts of initially 9-year-old (recalled at ages 15 and 18) and 15-year-old (recalled at ages 18 and 25) children provided self-reports on their alcohol use in all data collection waves (complete data available n = 1,075). RESULTS A significant genotype × gender × cohort interaction effect on the age of consuming the first alcoholic drink was found [F(2, 1,063) = 7.2, p < 0.001]. Females with the s/s genotype in the older cohort were the latest experimenters with alcohol, while the s/s females of younger cohort had tried alcohol earlier than any other group. In males, there was no significant cohort × genotype interaction, but the 5-HTTLPR genotype was associated with alcohol use, the s/s subjects reporting the highest consumption. CONCLUSION Expression of genetic vulnerability to alcohol use is influenced by birth cohort effects. The 5-HTTLPR genotype is associated with alcohol consumption in general population, but the effect depends on gender and birth cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariliis Vaht
- Department of Psychology, Estonian Centre of Behavioural and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cao J, Hudziak JJ, Li D. Multi-cultural association of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) with substance use disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology 2013; 38:1737-47. [PMID: 23518607 PMCID: PMC3717550 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2013.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Revised: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
A number of studies have reported associations between the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) and alcohol, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine abuse. Other studies have yielded contrary results. There are a number of reasons for non-replication, including inadequate statistical power, population stratification, and poor phenotype definition. This study was to test the association using a meta-analytic approach across a variety of racial and ethnic populations. Using the genotype data of 55 studies (7999 cases, 8264 controls, and 676 families or parent-offspring trios) published in the past 15 years, we have conducted comprehensive meta-analyses to examine the associations of the 5-HTTLPR and STin2 polymorphisms with substance use disorder. The meta-analyses support the associations of 5-HTTLPR with alcohol, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine dependence and abuse (eg, the smallest P-values were 0.0058 with odds ratio (OR)=0.54 (0.35, 0.84); 0.0024 with OR=0.77 (0.66, 0.91); 0.018 with OR=1.38 (1.06, 1.81); and 0.028 with OR=0.46 (0.23, 0.92) for alcohol, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine dependence/abuse, respectively). When all the phenotypes are combined, the P-value was 0.0006 with OR=0.86 (0.78, 0.94) in the combined European, Asian, and Mexican populations and P-value was 0.0028 with OR=1.41 (1.13, 1.78) in the African populations. Evidence of significant associations was also identified in other subgroup analyses regarding differently combined substance and populations. The effect sizes of 5-HTTLPR were comparable among the European, Asian, and Mexican populations, however, the risk allele was more frequent in Asians than in Europeans and Mexicans. The opposite directions of risk allele in African population might be driven by the opposite directions of risk allele in cocaine dependence. This meta-analysis supports that the association of the SLC6A4 gene with substance use disorder varies depending on substances with different risk allele frequencies in the multi-cultural populations. Further studies using larger sample size are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cao
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - James J Hudziak
- Vermont Center for Children, Youth, and Families, Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Dawei Li
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Neuroscience, Behavior, and Health Initiative, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Al-Eitan LN, Jaradat SA, Qin W, Wildenauer DMB, Wildenauer DDB, Hulse GK, Tay GK. Characterization of serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) polymorphisms and its association with drug dependence in a Jordanian Arab population. Toxicol Ind Health 2012; 30:598-610. [PMID: 23033208 DOI: 10.1177/0748233712462446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Drug dependence is a pattern of repeated self-administration of a drug, which can result in tolerance, withdrawal and compulsive drug-taking behaviour. It has been recently suggested that 5-HTTLPR (LL/LS/SS) variants and rs25531 (A/G) polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) may play a role in drug dependence. The current study aimed to (1) identify allelic, haplotypic and genotypic frequencies of the 5-HTTLPR variants and rs25531 polymorphisms of SLC6A4 gene in drug and nondrug-dependent Jordanian Arab population and (2) determine whether there is an association of these variants in a drug-dependent population from the same area. Jordanian drug male addicts of Arab descent (n = 192) meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fourth edition criteria for drug dependence and 230 healthy male controls from an ethnically homogenous Jordanian Arab population were examined. Genotyping was performed using the restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction-based method to genotype the 5-HTTLPR variants and detect the A/G polymorphism at position rs25531. The biallelic analysis revealed that the frequency of 5-HTTLPR (LL/LS/SS) genotypes was statistically significant different between drug-dependent individuals and controls (χ (2) (2, N = 422), p = 0.04). Drug-dependent subjects had a higher frequency of 'L' allele. However, using the triallelic approach, the estimated frequency of haplotypes (SA , SG , LA and LG ) and phased genotypes (LA /LA , LA /SA , LA /LG , SA /SA and SA /SG) did not show significant association with drug dependence (χ (2) (3, N = 422), p = 0.53 and χ (2) (4, N = 422), p = 0.06, respectively). This study suggests a putative role of the 5-HTTLPR for drug dependence in the Jordanian Nationals of Arab ancestry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laith Naser Al-Eitan
- Centre for Forensic Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Saied Ali Jaradat
- Princess Haya Biotechnology Center, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Wenwen Qin
- Western Australian Institute for Medical Research, Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Diah Mutiara B Wildenauer
- Western Australian Institute for Medical Research, Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Dieter D B Wildenauer
- Princess Haya Biotechnology Center, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia Centre for Clinical Research in Neuropsychiatry, Graylands Hospital, Mount Claremont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gary K Hulse
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia Unit for Research and Education in Alcohol and Drugs, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Guan K Tay
- Centre for Forensic Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
Pharmacogenetic analyses of treatments for alcohol dependence attempt to predict treatment response and side-effect risk for specific medications. We review the literature on pharmacogenetics relevant to alcohol dependence treatment, and describe state-of-the-art methods of pharmacogenetic research in this area. Two main pharmacogenetic study designs predominate: challenge studies and treatment-trial analyses. Medications studied include US FDA-approved naltrexone and acamprosate, both indicated for treating alcohol dependence, as well as several investigational (and off-label) treatments such as sertraline, olanzapine and ondansetron. The best-studied functional genetic variant relevant to alcoholism treatment is rs1799971, a single-nucleotide polymorphism in exon 1 of the OPRM1 gene that encodes the μ-opioid receptor. Evidence from clinical trials suggests that the presence of the variant G allele of rs1799971 may predict better treatment response to opioid receptor antagonists such as naltrexone. Evidence from clinical trials also suggests that several medications interact pharmacogenetically with variation in genes that encode proteins involved in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission. Variation in the DRD4 gene, which encodes the dopamine D(4) receptor, may predict better response to naltrexone and olanzapine. A polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 promoter region appears related to differential treatment response to sertraline depending on the subject's age of onset of alcoholism. Genetic variation in SLC6A4 may also be associated with better treatment response to ondansetron. Initial pharmacogenetic efforts in alcohol research have identified functional variants with potential clinical utility, but more research is needed to further elucidate the mechanism of these pharmacogenetic interactions and their moderators in order to translate them into clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Arias
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - R. Andrew Sewell
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen ACH, Manz N, Tang Y, Rangaswamy M, Almasy L, Kuperman S, Nurnberger J, O'Connor SJ, Edenberg HJ, Schuckit MA, Tischfield J, Foroud T, Bierut LJ, Rohrbaugh J, Rice JP, Goate A, Hesselbrock V, Porjesz B. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in corticotropin releasing hormone receptor 1 gene (CRHR1) are associated with quantitative trait of event-related potential and alcohol dependence. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2010; 34:988-96. [PMID: 20374216 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01173.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endophenotypes reflect more proximal effects of genes than diagnostic categories, hence providing a more powerful strategy in searching for genes involved in complex psychiatric disorders. There is strong evidence suggesting the P3 amplitude of the event-related potential (ERP) as an endophenotype for the risk of alcoholism and other disinhibitory disorders. Recent studies demonstrated a crucial role of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRHR1) in the environmental stress response and ethanol self-administration in animal models. The aim of the present study was to test the potential associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CRHR1 gene and the quantitative trait, P3 amplitude during the processing of visual target signals in an oddball paradigm, as well as alcohol dependence diagnosis. METHODS We analyzed a sample from the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) comprising 1049 Caucasian subjects from 209 families (including 472 alcohol-dependent individuals). Quantitative transmission disequilibrium test (QTDT) and family-based association test (FBAT) were used to test the association, and false discovery rate (FDR) was applied to correct for multiple comparisons. RESULTS Significant associations (p < 0.05) were found between the P3 amplitude and alcohol dependence with multiple SNPs in the CRHR1 gene. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that CRHR1 may be involved in modulating the P3 component of the ERP during information processing and in vulnerability to alcoholism. These findings underscore the utility of electrophysiology and the endophenotype approach in the genetic study of psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C H Chen
- Henri Begleiter Neurodynamics Laboratory, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
The serotonin transporter gene and risk for alcohol dependence: a meta-analytic review. Drug Alcohol Depend 2010; 108:1-6. [PMID: 20060655 PMCID: PMC2835838 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2009.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2009] [Revised: 11/11/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have implicated a relationship between particular allelic variations of the serotonin transporter gene (5HTTLPR) and alcohol dependence. To provide a current estimate of the strength of this association, particularly in light of inconsistent results for 5HTTLPR, we conducted a meta-analytic review of the association between 5HTTLPR and a clinical diagnosis of alcohol dependence. Of 145 studies initially identified, 22 (including 8050 participants) met inclusion criteria. Results indicated that there was a significant albeit modest association between alcohol dependence diagnosis and the presence of at least 1 short allele (OR=1.15, 95% CI=1.01, 1.30, p<.05). Slightly more robust results were observed for participants who were homogeneous for the short allele (OR=1.21, 95% CI=1.02, 1.44, p<.05). These results were unrelated to sex and race/ethnicity of participants; however, the effect size was moderated by study sample size and publication year. Additionally, the fail-safe N analysis indicated potential publication bias. Therefore, although our review indicates that there is a significant association between 5HTTLPR and alcohol dependence diagnosis, this result should be interpreted with caution.
Collapse
|
10
|
Genetic, Epigenetic and Environmental Factors in Serotonin Associated Disease Condition. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-7339(10)70108-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
|
11
|
Saraceno L, Munafó M, Heron J, Craddock N, van den Bree MBM. Genetic and non-genetic influences on the development of co-occurring alcohol problem use and internalizing symptomatology in adolescence: a review. Addiction 2009; 104:1100-21. [PMID: 19438423 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2009.02571.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Alcohol problem use during adolescence has been linked to a variety of adverse consequences, including cigarette and illicit drug use, delinquency, adverse effects on pubertal brain development and increased risk of morbidity and mortality. In addition, heavy alcohol-drinking adolescents are at increased risk of comorbid psychopathology, including internalizing symptomatology (especially depression and anxiety). A range of genetic and non-genetic factors have been implicated in both alcohol problem use as well as internalizing symptomatology. However, to what extent shared risk factors contribute to their comorbidity in adolescence is poorly understood. DESIGN We conducted a systematic review on Medline, PsycINFO, Embase and Web of Science to identify epidemiological and molecular genetic studies published between November 1997 and November 2007 that examined risk factors that may be shared in common between alcohol problem use and internalizing symptomatology in adolescence. FINDINGS Externalizing disorders, family alcohol problems and stress, as well as the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) S-allele, the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) low-activity alleles and the dopamine D2 receptor (DDR2) Taq A1 allele have been associated most frequently with both traits. An increasing number of papers are focusing upon the role of gene-gene (epistasis) and gene-environment interactions in the development of comorbid alcohol problem use and internalizing symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS Further research in adolescents is warranted; the increasing availability of large longitudinal genetically informative studies will provide the evidence base from which effective prevention and intervention strategies for comorbid alcohol problems and internalizing symptomatology can be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Saraceno
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jacobson KC, Beseler CL, Lasky-Su J, Faraone SV, Glatt SJ, Kremen WS, Lyons MJ, Tsuang MT. Ordered subsets linkage analysis of antisocial behavior in substance use disorder among participants in the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2008; 147B:1258-69. [PMID: 18496835 PMCID: PMC4248599 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.30771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneity in complex diseases such as Substance Use Disorder (SUD) reduces the power to detect linkage and makes replication of findings in other populations unlikely. It is therefore critical to refine the phenotype and use methods that account for genetic heterogeneity between families. SUD was operationalized as diagnosis of abuse or dependence to alcohol and/or any one of five illicit substances. Whole-genome linkage analysis of 241 extended pedigree families from the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism was performed in Merlin using an affected sibship design. An Ordered Subsets Analysis (OSA) using FLOSS sought to increase the homogeneity of the sample by ranking families by their density of childhood and adult antisocial behaviors, producing new maximum Nonparametric Lod (NPL) scores on each chromosome for each subset of families. Prior to OSA, modest evidence for linkage was found on chromosomes 8 and 17. Although changes in NPL scores were not statistically significant, OSA revealed possible evidence of linkages on chromosome 7, near markers D7S1795 and D7S821. NPL scores >3.0 were also observed on chromosomes 2, 3, 5, 9, and 14. However, the number of families used in these latter subsets for linkage may be too small to be meaningful. Results provide some evidence for the ability of OSA to reduce genetic heterogeneity, and add further support to chromosome 7 as a possible location to search for genes related to various SUD related processes. Nonetheless, replication of these results in other samples is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen C. Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois,Correspondence to: Dr. Kristen C. Jacobson, 5841 S Maryland Ave., CNPRU, The University of Chicago, MC 3077, Chicago, IL 60637.
| | - Cheryl L. Beseler
- Epidemiology Department, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jessica Lasky-Su
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical Genetics Research Program, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York,Channing Laboratories, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stephen V. Faraone
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical Genetics Research Program, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York,Department of Neuroscience & Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York
| | - Stephen J. Glatt
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical Genetics Research Program, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York,Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genomics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - William S. Kremen
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genomics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Michael J. Lyons
- Department of Psychology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ming T. Tsuang
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Behavior Genomics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California,Departments of Epidemiology and Psychiatry, Harvard Institute of Psychiatric Epidemiology and Genetics, Harvard Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Verdejo-García A, Lawrence AJ, Clark L. Impulsivity as a vulnerability marker for substance-use disorders: review of findings from high-risk research, problem gamblers and genetic association studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2008; 32:777-810. [PMID: 18295884 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2007.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 915] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2007] [Revised: 11/28/2007] [Accepted: 11/29/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There is a longstanding association between substance-use disorders (SUDs) and the psychological construct of impulsivity. In the first section of this review, personality and neurocognitive data pertaining to impulsivity will be summarised in regular users of four classes of substance: stimulants, opiates, alcohol and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Impulsivity in these groups may arise via two alternative mechanisms, which are not mutually exclusive. By one account, impulsivity may occur as a consequence of chronic exposure to substances causing harmful effects on the brain. By the alternative account, impulsivity pre-dates SUDs and is associated with the vulnerability to addiction. We will review the evidence that impulsivity is associated with addiction vulnerability by considering three lines of evidence: (i) studies of groups at high-risk for development of SUDs; (ii) studies of pathological gamblers, where the harmful consequences of the addiction on brain structure are minimised, and (iii) genetic association studies linking impulsivity to genetic risk factors for addiction. Within each of these three lines of enquiry, there is accumulating evidence that impulsivity is a pre-existing vulnerability marker for SUDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Verdejo-García
- Pharmacology Research Unit, Institut Municipal d'Investigació Mèdica, Barcelona Biomedical Research park, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Köhnke MD. Approach to the genetics of alcoholism: A review based on pathophysiology. Biochem Pharmacol 2008; 75:160-77. [PMID: 17669369 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2007.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2007] [Revised: 06/14/2007] [Accepted: 06/15/2007] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol dependence is a common disorder with a heterogenous etiology. The results of family, twin and adoption studies on alcoholism are reviewed. These studies have revealed a heritability of alcoholism of over 50%. After evaluating the results, it was epidemiologically stated that alcoholism is heterogenous complex disorder with a multiple genetic background. Modern molecular genetic techniques allow examining specific genes involved in the pathophysiology of complex diseases such as alcoholism. Strategies for gene identification are introduced to the reader, including family-based and association studies. The susceptibility genes that are in the focus of this article have been chosen because they are known to encode for underlying mechanisms that are linked to the pathophysiology of alcoholism or that are important for the pharmacotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Postulated candidate genes of the metabolism of alcohol and of the involved neurotransmitter systems are introduced. Genetic studies on alcoholism examining the metabolism of alcohol and the dopaminergic, GABAergic, glutamatergic, opioid, cholinergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter systems as well as the neuropeptide Y are presented. The results are critically discussed followed by a discussion of possible consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Köhnke
- Friedrich-Petersen-Klinik Rostock, Semmelweisstrasse 2, 18059 Rostock, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Heinz A, Friedel E, Müller DJ, Puls I, Wrase J. Genetic research with intermediate phenotypes: phenocopies, perspectives and pitfalls. Addiction 2007; 102:1696-7. [PMID: 17935576 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2007.01994.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité-University Medical Center Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lin SC, Wu PL, Ko HC, Wu JYW, Huang SY, Lin WW, Lu RB. Specific personality traits and dopamine, serotonin genes in anxiety-depressive alcoholism among Han Chinese in Taiwan. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2007; 31:1526-34. [PMID: 17707567 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2007.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2007] [Revised: 07/10/2007] [Accepted: 07/10/2007] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cloninger [Cloninger CR. 1987. Neurogenetic adaptive mechanisms in alcoholism. Science 236: 410-416.] had proposed a psychobiological model suggesting that three main personality dimensions distinguish the alcoholism into two subtypes (type I and type II). However, the classification was equivocal for clinical diagnosis. Recently, anxiety-depressive alcohol dependence (ANX/DEP ALC) has been posited as a genetically specific subtype of alcoholism. Its clinical characteristics were similar to individuals with type I alcoholism [Cloninger, C.R. 1987. Neurogenetic adaptive mechanisms in alcoholism. Science 236: 410-6.] such as having a high comorbidity with mood disorder, late-onset and more anxious/depressed traits. We attempted to investigate whether the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and the serotonin transporter promoter region (5-HTTLPR) genes were involved in Novelty Seeking (NS) and Harm Avoidance (HA) of ANX/DEP ALC. METHODS We recruited 46 pure alcohol dependents (Pure ALC) and 87 anxiety-depression alcohol dependents (ANX/DEP ALC). All participants were diagnosed by DSM-IV criteria, genotyped by the PCR method and assessed with Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ). RESULTS Both NS and HA were high in ANX/DEP ALC (p = 0.021; p = 0.001, respectively). The association between NS and ANX/DEP ALC only existed in subjects with DRD2 TaqI A1(+) allele (A1/A1 or A1/A2 genotypes) (p = 0.004) and in those with S/S genotype of 5-HTTLPR (p = 0.005). With the stratification of DRD2 TaqI A1(+) allele, high NS of ANX/DEP ALC existed only in carriers of 5-HTTLPR S/S genotype (p=0.001). Moreover, ANX/DEP ALC was related to high HA only in samples carrying 5-HTTLPR S/L or L/L genotype (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS These findings provided the empirical genetic characterization of the specific personality traits in ANX/DEP ALC among Han Chinese population in Taiwan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Cheng Lin
- Institute of Behavioral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan, ROC
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Dick DM, Plunkett J, Hamlin D, Nurnberger J, Kuperman S, Schuckit M, Hesselbrock V, Edenberg H, Bierut L. Association analyses of the serotonin transporter gene with lifetime depression and alcohol dependence in the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) sample. Psychiatr Genet 2007; 17:35-8. [PMID: 17167343 DOI: 10.1097/ypg.0b013e328011188b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze association of the serotonin transporter gene 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on lifetime depression and alcohol dependence in the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism sample. We conducted family-based association analyses in 1913 Caucasians genotyped for the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism. We found evidence for association of the short allele with depression, but no evidence of association with alcohol dependence. On the basis of the evidence that the effect of this polymorphism may be moderated by stressful life events, we classified individuals for the presence and/or absence of stress, as defined by unemployment, relationship problems, or poor health. The evidence for the association with lifetime depression was limited to the group of individuals who had experienced stress, paralleling the direction of effects originally reported by Caspi and colleagues. No evidence was found for the association with alcohol dependence in either the stress or the no-stress groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Dick
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Covault J, Tennen H, Armeli S, Conner TS, Herman AI, Cillessen AHN, Kranzler HR. Interactive effects of the serotonin transporter 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and stressful life events on college student drinking and drug use. Biol Psychiatry 2007; 61:609-16. [PMID: 16920076 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2006.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2006] [Revised: 05/05/2006] [Accepted: 05/23/2006] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A common functional polymorphism, 5-HTTLPR, in the serotonin transporter gene has been associated with heavy drinking in college students. We examined this polymorphism as it interacted with negative life events to predict drinking and drug use in college students. METHODS Daily reports of drinking and drug use obtained using a daily web-based survey were combined with self-reports of past-year negative life events and 5-HTTLPR genotypes in a regression analysis of alcohol and nonprescribed drug use in a sample of 295 college students. RESULTS Genotype and negative life events significantly interacted in relation to drinking and drug use outcomes. Individuals homozygous for the short (s) allele who experienced multiple negative life events in the prior year reported more frequent drinking and heavy drinking, stronger intentions to drink, and greater nonprescribed drug use. In individuals homozygous for the long (l) allele, drinking and drug use were unaffected by past-year negative life events. Heterozygous subjects showed drinking outcomes that were intermediate to the two homozygous groups. CONCLUSIONS The 5-HTTLPR s-allele is associated with increased drinking and drug use among college students who have experienced multiple negative life events. The s-allele carriers may be at risk for a variety of adverse behavioral outcomes in response to stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Covault
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mannelli P, Patkar AA, Peindl K, Tharwani H, Gopalakrishnan R, Hill KP, Berrettini WH. Polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene and moderators of prolactin response to meta-chlorophenylpiperazine in African-American cocaine abusers and controls. Psychiatry Res 2006; 144:99-108. [PMID: 17000009 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2006.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2005] [Revised: 01/06/2006] [Accepted: 01/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) function is altered in several psychiatric disorders, including cocaine dependence (CD), and its role in impulsive-aggressive behaviors has been widely studied. However, the relationship between psychopathological and behavioral dimensions and mechanisms of 5-HT alterations remains unclear. We investigated the relationship of a polymorphism in the 5' promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) with prolactin (PRL) response to meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (m-CPP) in a sample of 68 African-American individuals, 35 CD subjects and 33 controls. We also examined whether measures of impulsivity, hostility and sensation seeking influenced the relationship between the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and PRL response to m-CPP in this sample. Individuals with the SS genotype showed significantly heightened PRL response to the challenge compared with the LL and LS genotypes. No influence of gender or substance abuse condition was observed. Hostility was associated with blunted PRL response in the total sample. Cocaine abuse was the most significant moderator of DeltaPRL (peak PRL-baseline PRL), and the interaction of genetic, behavioral and psychopathological measures helped predict most of the observed DeltaPRL (62.5%). Although these results need replication, variation in the 5-HTTLPR gene appears to influence measures of 5-HT function and interact with disease state and personality dimensions to account for 5-HT disturbances in African-American populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Mannelli
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hinckers AS, Laucht M, Schmidt MH, Mann KF, Schumann G, Schuckit MA, Heinz A. Low level of response to alcohol as associated with serotonin transporter genotype and high alcohol intake in adolescents. Biol Psychiatry 2006; 60:282-7. [PMID: 16497275 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2005.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2005] [Revised: 10/16/2005] [Accepted: 12/08/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A low level of response to alcohol has been associated with both the genetic constitution of the regulatory region (SLC6A4) of the human serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) transporter (5-HTT) and with future alcohol intake and an increased risk for alcoholism. To date, all studies of relevant polymorphisms have been carried out in populations in the United States. METHODS Data were extracted from a subset (n = 243) of a cohort of children who have been observed since birth through evaluation of the family history of alcoholism and psychosocial risk influences. At age 16 years, the response to alcohol was assessed with the Self-Rating of the Effects of Alcohol (SRE) questionnaire, and the average amount of alcohol intake per month was assessed during the prior 6 months. Additional variables that were measured included the 5-HTT genotype, externalizing behavior, and sociodemographic variables, such as gender and age. RESULTS The level of response to alcohol was significantly lower among carriers of two long alleles of the 5-HTT regulatory region compared with carriers of one or two short alleles (Mann-Whitney U = 5225.0, p = .005). In a multiple regression analysis, the level of response to alcohol and externalizing behavior but not psychosocial factors significantly predicted the average amount of alcohol intake per month. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that, independent of the assessed psychosocial variables, the 5-HTT genotype correlated with the level of response to alcohol and predicted alcohol intake among 16-year-old adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne S Hinckers
- Department of Psychosomatics, Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Marques FZC, Hutz MH, Bau CHD. Influence of the serotonin transporter gene on comorbid disorders among alcohol-dependent individuals. Psychiatr Genet 2006; 16:125-31. [PMID: 16691130 DOI: 10.1097/01.ypg.0000199449.07786.7d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The role of the human serotonin transporter protein (5-HTT) gene in psychiatric disorders suggests that its variation may influence the comorbidity pattern and the heterogeneity of alcoholism. The aim of the present study is to verify possible associations between the 5-HTTLPR control region polymorphism with alcoholism and comorbid disorders. METHODS The polymorphic site was genotyped in 114 patients with alcohol dependence and 218 controls, all of them Brazilians of European descent. A comprehensive diagnostic interview identified the comorbid disorders. RESULTS Study participants with alcohol dependence and controls did not differ in the genotype and allele frequencies (genotypes: chi(2) = 2.52, P = 0.28; alleles: chi(2) = 0.37; P = 0.54). Patients with comorbid major depressive disorder (chi(2) = 6.14, P = 0.01), drug abuse (chi(2) = 6.82, P = 0.01) and nicotine dependence (chi(2) = 4.10, P = 0.04), however, presented a higher frequency of the S allele than patients without these comorbidities. Patients with comorbid depression and drug abuse also presented a higher frequency of the S allele than controls. CONCLUSIONS The present results are consistent with the importance of the 5-HTT gene in psychiatry. They suggest a role of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism in a group of comorbid disorders among alcohol-dependent individuals, supporting a genetic influence in alcoholism heterogeneity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francine Z C Marques
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Alcohol dependence is a complex disorder with a well documented highly hereditary nature. This article reviews the recent advances in our understanding of the direct and indirect genetic influences on alcohol use and dependence. RECENT FINDINGS Recent findings can be summarized as follows: (a) twin studies have defined and estimated the risks of general and specific alcohol-related vulnerabilities. (b) Linkage studies have provided largely inconsistent findings, though several chromosomal regions have been implicated. (c) Quantitative trait loci analyses in animals have identified that the Mpdz gene predisposes to alcohol dependence and withdrawal. (d) Examination of family-based samples has identified several genes including GABRA2 and CHRM2 thought to be associated with alcohol dependence. SUMMARY Despite great advances in understanding of genetic vulnerability in alcohol use disorders, only two gene complexes, ADH and ALDH2, have been identified as having defined effects on alcohol use and liability to dependence in humans. New genes associated with increased risks for the disorder will certainly be added to this list in the near future. Neurobiological analyses of the effects of these genes will surely contribute to further understanding of the cause of alcohol dependence and the interindividual differences in risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susumu Higuchi
- National Hospital Organization, Kurihama Alcoholism Center, Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Choi IG, Kee BS, Son HG, Ham BJ, Yang BH, Kim SH, Lee JS, Son BK, Lee BY, Lee SY, Chai YG, Shin HD. Genetic polymorphisms of alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenase, dopamine and serotonin transporters in familial and non-familial alcoholism. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2006; 16:123-8. [PMID: 16125912 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2005.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2004] [Accepted: 07/12/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
One hundred and eleven male patients with alcohol dependence and 123 nonalcoholic healthy men were tested for the genetic polymorphisms of alcohol dehydrogenase 2 (ADH2), aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), serotonin transporter (5-HTT) and dopamine transporter (DAT1). There were significant differences in genotype frequencies of ADH2 C992G and A13543G SNPs between alcoholic patients with family history of alcohol dependence (familial) and alcoholic patients without family history (non-familial). Genotype and allele frequencies of ALDH2 G1951A SNP in familial or non-familial alcoholic patients differ from normal controls. Neither 5-HTTLPR L/S nor DAT1 G2319A SNP genotypes nor alleles discriminated alcoholic patients from normal controls. These findings suggest that the genetic characteristics of alcohol metabolism in non-familial alcoholics fall between non-alcoholism and familial alcoholics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ihn-Geun Choi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hallym University Han-Gang Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lesch KP. Alcohol dependence and gene x environment interaction in emotion regulation: Is serotonin the link? Eur J Pharmacol 2005; 526:113-24. [PMID: 16288736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2005.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2005] [Accepted: 09/23/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol dependence is characterized by frequent, compulsive and uncontrolled consumption of alcohol associated with behavior of maladaption and destruction. It is an etiologically and clinically heterogeneous syndrome, moderately to highly heritable, and caused by interaction of genes and environment. Alcohol dependence is related to other psychiatric diseases by common neurobiological pathways, including those that modulate reward, behavioral control as well as anxiety and stress response. Alcohol induces adaptive changes in brain function providing the basis for tolerance, craving, withdrawal, and emotional disturbance. The differentiation of psychobiological traits of addictive behavior reflecting neurobiological processes is therefore of particular importance for the dissection of the complex genetic susceptibility to alcohol dependence. A central serotonin (5-HT) deficit is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of alcohol dependence by modulating motivational behavior, neuroadaptive processes, and resulting emotional disturbance. 5-HT-related impulsive, aggressive, and suicidal behavior has been linked to a primordial personality that is susceptible to alcohol dependence. Although variations in many of the genes that encode receptors, enzymes, and transporters of the 5-HT system have been tested as risk factors for alcohol dependence, genetic analyses of 5-HT signaling in alcohol dependence have mainly been focused on the 5-HT transporter (5-HTT) gene. Due to its central role in the fine-tuning serotonergic neurotransmission, a regulatory variant of the 5-HTT, which is associated with anxiety related traits, is not only a key player in the neurobiological mechanism of gene x environment interaction in the etiology of depression, but also contributes to the risk to develop alcohol dependence with antisocial behavior and suicidality. Evidence for a modulatory effect of allelic variation of 5-HTT function on limbic circuit responses to emotional stimuli suggests that genotype-endophenotype correlations may be accessible to molecular functional imaging of the brain. These new developments have broad implications for our understanding how genetic vulnerability to alcohol dependence is manifested in the brain's response to emotional stimuli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klaus-Peter Lesch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Füchsleinstr. 15, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mannelli P, Patkar AA, Murray HW, Certa K, Peindl K, Mattila-Evenden M, Berrettini WH. Polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene and response to treatment in African American cocaine and alcohol-abusing individuals. Addict Biol 2005; 10:261-8. [PMID: 16109588 DOI: 10.1080/13556210500235540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) regulates serotonin transmission and modulates behavioral effects of drug of abuse. A polymorphism in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) yielding a short (S) and long (L) allele has been associated with severity of substance abuse. The aims of the study were to investigate whether 5-HTTLPR genotypes differed in their response to treatment in cocaine- and alcohol-abusing patients. Polymerase chain reaction-based genotyping of a 44 base pair insertion/deletion polymorphism was performed in 141 African American cocaine-dependent patients with concurrent alcohol use who were entering a 12-week behaviorally oriented outpatient treatment program. In treatment, end of treatment and 6-month follow-up outcome measures included changes in Addiction Severity Index (ASI) scores, urine drug screens, days in treatment, individual/group sessions, dropout and completion rates. As expected, there was a reduction in substance abuse by the end of treatment and follow-up (F = 5.15, p = 0.000). However, there were no differences in the reduction in cocaine use across the LL, LS and SS genotypes. Interestingly, individuals with the S allele showed greater severity of alcohol use at admission (F = 4.84, p = 0.03), and the SS genotype showed less improvement in alcohol measures than the LL at follow-up (F = 3.68, p = 0.03), after controlling for baseline variables. While we found no association of the 5-HTTLPR variants with severity of cocaine abuse or any cocaine-related outcome measures, the data suggested that the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism may distinguish responders from non-responders to behavioral treatment in terms of alcohol use. Further investigations are required to determine the role of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism in influencing treatment - outcome among substance abusers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Mannelli
- Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27704, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nilsson KW, Sjöberg RL, Damberg M, Alm PO, Ohrvik J, Leppert J, Lindström L, Oreland L. Role of the serotonin transporter gene and family function in adolescent alcohol consumption. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2005; 29:564-70. [PMID: 15834221 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000159112.98941.b0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND That the extent to which a particular individual will engage in problematic behaviors such as delinquency, violence, or drug abuse is determined by the way psychosocial, situational, and hereditary factors interact is widely accepted. However, only recently have researchers begun to investigate the interactions between specific genotypes and psychosocial factors in relation to behavior. The purpose of the present study was to investigate possible interactions between a polymorphism in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene and family relations on adolescent alcohol consumption. METHODS A cross-sectional study with a randomized sample from a total population of 16- and 19-year-old adolescents from a Swedish county was conducted. Eighty-one male and 119 female adolescents, who volunteered to participate after having answered a questionnaire, were randomly selected from quartiles of volunteers representing various degrees of psychosocial risk behavior. RESULTS 5-HTT genotype (p=0.029) and family relations (p=0.022) predicted alcohol consumption independently as well as through an interaction with one another (p=0.05). The model explained 11% of the variance in alcohol consumption. In a binary logistic model, we found that adolescents with the LS variant of the 5-HTT gene and with family relations being "neutral" or "bad" had a 12- to 14-fold increased risk for high intoxication frequency. CONCLUSIONS In sum, our results show that a functional polymorphism of the 5-HTT genotype, family relations, and interactions between these variables predict adolescent alcohol consumption in a randomized sample of adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kent W Nilsson
- From the Centre for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, Central Hospital Västerås, Västerås, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kweon YS, Lee HK, Lee CT, Lee KU, Pae CU. Association of the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism with Korean male alcoholics. J Psychiatr Res 2005; 39:371-6. [PMID: 15804387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2004.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2004] [Revised: 10/10/2004] [Accepted: 10/11/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the association between the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and alcoholism in the Korean population. In addition, in order to reduce the clinical heterogeneity, sub-analysis was carried out according to some clinical variables such as a family history of alcoholism, aggressive/violent behavior and the age of onset of alcoholism. One hundred and forty-five patients meeting the DSM-VI criteria for alcohol dependence and 201 healthy controls were examined. Genotyping was performed using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method. The frequency of the L-allele of 5-HTTLPR was significantly higher in the alcohol dependent patients than in the normal controls (chi(2)=19.11, df=1, p<0.001). Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the allelic distribution between the subgroups defined by a family history of alcoholism (chi(2)=4.005, df=1, p=0.045). This study suggests a putative role of the 5-HTTLPR for alcoholism in the Korean population. However, a replication study with larger different ethnic samples and a refinement of the subtype of alcoholism is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Sil Kweon
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Uijongbu St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, 65-1, Geumo-Dong, Uijongbu city, Gyeonggi-do 480-130, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Munafò MR, Lingford-Hughes AR, Johnstone EC, Walton RT. Association between the serotonin transporter gene and alcohol consumption in social drinkers. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2005; 135B:10-4. [PMID: 15729746 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.30162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Relatively few studies have investigated the role of the 5HTT gene in intermediate phenotypes such as alcohol consumption in non-alcohol dependent populations. A recent study reported an association with alcohol consumption in a student population. We attempted to replicate these findings and extend on this work in a representative, ethnically homogenous, non-alcohol dependent sample of social drinkers in the United Kingdom. The short allele of the 5HTT gene was significantly associated with increased alcohol consumption (P = 0.03). There was suggestive evidence of a genotype-sex interaction (P = 0.04). Post-hoc tests indicated higher alcohol consumption in men with one or more copies of the short allele, while in women consumption was highest among heterozygotes compared to both homozygote groups. Age at time of data collection and cigarette consumption were entered as covariates. These results replicate recent previous findings and suggest a possibility that this association may differ in men and women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcus R Munafò
- Cancer Research UK General Practice Research Group, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Feinn R, Nellissery M, Kranzler HR. Meta-analysis of the association of a functional serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism with alcohol dependence. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2005; 133B:79-84. [PMID: 15635638 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.30132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) has been shown to regulate alcohol consumption in both animals and humans. Since activity of the 5-HT transporter protein (5-HTT) regulates 5-HT levels, the gene encoding this protein may contribute to the risk of alcohol dependence (AD). Studies of the association to AD of a functional insertion-deletion polymorphism in the 5-HTT-linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) have yielded inconsistent results. We conducted a meta-analysis of data from 17 published studies (including 3,489 alcoholics and 2,325 controls) investigating the association between 5-HTTLPR alleles and AD. The frequency of the short (S) allele at 5-HTTLPR was significantly associated with AD [odds ratio (OR) = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.03-1.33). Moreover, a greater association with the S allele was seen among individuals with AD complicated by either a co-morbid psychiatric condition or an early-onset or more severe AD subtype [OR = 1.34 (95% CI = 1.11-1.63)]. Allelic variation at 5-HTTLPR contributes to risk for AD, with the greatest effect observed among individuals with a co-occurring clinical feature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Feinn
- Department of Psychiatry, Alcohol Research Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030-2103, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hu X, Oroszi G, Chun J, Smith TL, Goldman D, Schuckit MA. An Expanded Evaluation of the Relationship of Four Alleles to the Level of Response to Alcohol and the Alcoholism Risk. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2005; 29:8-16. [PMID: 15654286 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000150008.68473.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 389] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcoholism is a complex, genetically influenced disorder the cause of which may be better understood through the study of genetically influenced phenotypes that mediate the risk. One such intermediate phenotype is the low level of response (LR) to alcohol. This project used a case-control approach to search for genes that may contribute to LR. METHODS Data were available from alcohol challenges at approximately age 20 and regarding the development of alcohol use disorders over the subsequent 20 years for 85 men, including 40 reported in a previous genetic analysis. LR was evaluated using oral consumption of 0.75 ml/kg of alcohol, after which changes in subjective feelings of intoxication and body sway were measured. Alcohol abuse and dependence were diagnosed by DSM-III-R criteria through structured interviews administered to both the participant and an informant (usually the spouse) 10, 15, and 20 years after initial testing. Four polymorphisms were evaluated, including the serotonin transporter HTTLPR promoter ins/del, GABAAalpha6 Pro385Ser, NPY Leu7Pro, and catalase 262C>T. Two of these, HTTLPR and GABAAalpha6 Pro385Ser, had been previously associated with LR and alcoholism in a preliminary study. RESULTS The HTTLPR L allele was significantly related to both the LR and alcoholism in an allele-dosage (stepwise) manner. Furthermore, the association remained when L alleles were subdivided into recently reported functional subtypes: the lowest LR was associated with genotypes correlated with the highest serotonin transporter expression. The GABAAalpha6 Ser385 allele showed a nonsignificant trend for association to a low LR, as had been previously observed, although the Ser385 allele is uncommon, and only 18 heterozygotes were in the current group. However, the six men with both LL and Pro385/Ser385 genotypes had the lowest LR, and each had developed alcoholism during follow-up. Neither NPY nor catalase was associated with either LR or alcoholic outcomes, although the sample did not have sufficient power for definitive conclusions. CONCLUSIONS This report strengthens the support for a relationship between the HTTLPR L and GABAAalpha6 Ser385 alleles to low alcohol LR and to alcoholism in a prospectively studied cohort evaluated for LR in young adulthood and before the onset of alcohol dependence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianzhang Hu
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Fromme K, de Wit H, Hutchison KE, Ray L, Corbin WR, Cook TAR, Wall TL, Goldman D. Biological and behavioral markers of alcohol sensitivity. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2004; 28:247-56. [PMID: 15112932 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000113420.28472.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This article summarizes a symposium that was organized by Dr. Kim Fromme and presented at the 2003 annual meeting of the Research Society on Alcoholism in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The four presentations illustrate the emerging technologies and methods that are now being used to investigate the genetic basis of differential sensitivity to alcohol and their behavioral manifestations. Combining human genotyping with laboratory measures of behavior and subjective reports, these presentations represent state-of-the-art approaches to crossing the bridge from the Decade of the Brain to the Decade of Behavior. Dr. De Wit's paper describes her research on the neurobiological basis for individual differences in sensitivity to the stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. Evidence suggests that activity of the dopaminergic and GABAergic neurotransmitters underlie these stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. Both Drs. Hutchison's and Corbin's papers describe their research on polymorphisms for the serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) as a determinant of the subjective effects of alcohol challenge. Dr. Hutchinson's and Ms. Ray's findings indicate that individuals with the short form of the SLC6A4 alleles (S) demonstrated a low level of response to alcohol, thus supporting previous research that the S allele may be associated with increased risk for alcohol dependence. In contrast, Dr. Corbin did not find a reliable association between the SLC6A4 genotype and subjective response to alcohol. Mr. Cook's and Dr. Wall's paper adds another dimension to this article by presenting research on both the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH2) genetic variants and their association with the alcohol-related flushing response that is prevalent in Asian populations. Dr. David Goldman provides concluding remarks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Fromme
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Huang SY, Lin WW, Ko HC, Lee JF, Wang TJ, Chou YH, Yin SJ, Lu RB. Possible interaction of alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase genes with the dopamine D2 receptor gene in anxiety-depressive alcohol dependence. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2004; 28:374-84. [PMID: 15084894 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000117832.62901.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene in the development of alcohol abuse or dependence is controversial. The controversy is due in part to the disparate definitions pertaining to the control groups used and to the definitions of subtypes in alcohol dependence. In the Han Chinese population, the alcohol dehydrogenase 1B*2/*2 (ADH1B*2/*2) genotype and the aldehyde dehydrogenase 2*2 (ALDH2*2) allele have been considered as protective factors against alcohol abuse or dependence. Moreover, the ADH1B and ALDH2 genes might be involved in dopamine metabolism. We hypothesized that the ADH1B and ALDH2 genes might interact with the DRD2 gene and that the association between the DRD2 gene and alcohol dependence might be affected by different ADH1B and ALDH2 genotypes. This study examined whether the DRD2 gene is associated with specific subtypes of alcohol dependence and evaluated the relationship between the DRD2 gene and alcohol-metabolizing genes in a specific subtype of alcohol dependence. METHODS Of the 465 Han Chinese subjects who were recruited for the study, 71 were classified with pure alcohol dependence, 113 with both alcohol dependence and anxiety-depression (ANX/DEP ALC), and 129 with anxiety-depression but without alcohol dependence (ANX/DEP). The remaining 152 subjects were supernormal controls. All subjects were interviewed with the Chinese version of the modified Schedule of Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Lifetime; all alcohol dependence, anxiety, and major depressive diagnoses were made according to DSM-IV criteria. RESULTS The DRD2 gene was not found to be associated with pure alcohol dependence or ANX/DEP, but was found to be associated with ANX/DEP ALC. Furthermore, the association between the DRD2 gene and ANX/DEP ALC was shown to be under the control of the ALDH2*1/*1 and ADH1B*1/*2 genotypes. CONCLUSIONS ANX/DEP ALC is a specific subtype of alcohol dependence. Because ANX/DEP ALC was associated with the DRD2 gene only under the stratification of ADH1B*1/*2 or ALDH2*1/*1, the DRD2 gene might interact with the ADH1B gene and the ALDH2 gene, respectively, in the development of ANX/DEP ALC in the Taiwan Han Chinese population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- San-Yuan Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Tri-Service General Hospital, Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Seasonal changes in mood and behavior (seasonality) may be closely related to alcoholism. Some patients with alcoholism have a seasonal pattern to their alcohol misuse. They may be self-medicating an underlying seasonal affective disorder (SAD) with alcohol or manifesting a seasonal pattern to alcohol-induced depression. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the etiology and pathogenesis of alcoholism and SAD, operating, at least in part, through the brain serotonergic system. Family and molecular genetic studies suggest that there may be a genetic link between seasonality and alcoholism. Certain environmental and social factors may contribute to the development of seasonality in patients with alcoholism. The fact that SAD and alcoholism may be comorbid shows the importance of a thorough diagnostic interview. Both mental health and drug and alcohol professionals should be provided with education to assist with appropriate identification, management, and referral of patients presenting with comorbid alcoholism and SAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leo Sher
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Enoch MA. Pharmacogenomics of alcohol response and addiction. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOGENOMICS : GENOMICS-RELATED RESEARCH IN DRUG DEVELOPMENT AND CLINICAL PRACTICE 2003; 3:217-32. [PMID: 12930156 DOI: 10.2165/00129785-200303040-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholism is a complex psychiatric disorder that has high heritability (50-60%) and is relatively common; in the US the lifetime prevalence of alcohol dependence is 20% in men and 8% in women. Current psychosocial and pharmacological therapies have relatively modest effects. Treatment is complicated by the fact that alcoholism is often co-morbid with other disorders, including anxiety, depression, and antisocial personality disorder. Approximately 80% of alcoholics smoke cigarettes and there is considerable genetic overlap between nicotine and alcohol addiction. Convergent evidence supports the classification of alcoholics into two broad categories: type 1 - later onset with feelings of anxiety, guilt, and high harm avoidance; and type 2 - early age of onset, usually men, impulsive, antisocial, and with low levels of brain serotonin. The pharmacogenomics of alcohol response is well established; genetic variants for the principal enzymes of alcohol metabolism influence drinking behavior and protect against alcoholism. Vulnerability to alcoholism is likely to be due to multiple interacting genetic loci of small to modest effects. First-line therapeutic targets for alcoholism are neurotransmitter pathway genes implicated in alcohol use. Of particular interest are the 'reward pathway' (serotonin, dopamine, GABA, glutamate, and beta endorphin) and the behavioral stress response system (corticotrophin-releasing factor and neuropeptide Y). Common functional polymorphisms in these genes are likely to be predictive (although each with small effect) of individualized pharmacological responses. Genetic studies, including case-control association studies and genome wide linkage studies, have identified associations between alcoholism and common functional polymorphisms in several candidate genes. Meanwhile, the current pharmacological therapies for alcoholism are effective in some alcoholics but not all. Some progress has been made in elucidating the pharmacogenomic responses to these drugs, particularly in the context of the type 1/type 2 classification system for alcoholics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary-Anne Enoch
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-8110, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Johann M, Bobbe G, Putzhammer A, Wodarz N. Comorbidity of Alcohol Dependence With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Differences in Phenotype With Increased Severity of the Substance Disorder, but Not in Genotype (Serotonin Transporter and 5-Hydroxytryptamine-2c Receptor). Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2003; 27:1527-34. [PMID: 14574222 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000090143.00703.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nearly 50% of subjects with continuing symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adulthood have been reported to show a comorbid substance use disorder. Both ADHD and alcohol dependence have a high genetic load and might even share overlapping sources of genetic liability. Recently, the functional relevant polymorphism within the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTT) and the 5-hydroxytryptamine-2c (5-HT2c) receptor Cys23Ser have been proposed as candidate genes for both entities. METHODS We investigated phenotype and 5-HTT/5-HT2c genotype characteristics in 314 alcoholics of German descent. RESULTS There was no significant difference in 5-HTT genotype or 5-HT2c allele distribution between alcoholics and matched controls. Sixty-seven alcoholics fulfilled DSM-IV criteria of ADHD with ongoing symptoms in adulthood and had a Wender Utah Rating Scale score greater than 90. Thirty had ADHD plus antisocial personality disorder. The subgroup of alcoholics with ADHD (ADHD+) showed a significantly higher daily and record ethanol intake per month, an earlier age at onset of alcohol dependence, and a higher frequency of suicidal ideation, court proceedings, and antisocial personality disorder. In our sample, more than 50% of type 2 alcoholics according to Cloninger consist of the ADHD+ and/or antisocial personality disorder-positive subjects. There were no differences in 5-HTT genotype or 5-HT2c allele distribution between the ADHD+ subgroups and alcoholics without comorbidity and matched controls, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Comorbidity of alcoholism and ADHD forms a distinct phenotype that shows an increased severity of the substance disorder. This phenotype contributes substantially to the so-called type 2 alcoholics according to Cloninger. In our sample, the functional relevant 5-HTT promoter and the 5-HT2c receptor Cys23Ser polymorphism do not contribute to the supposed common genetic predisposition of ADHD and alcohol dependence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Johann
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Nellissery M, Feinn RS, Covault J, Gelernter J, Anton RF, Pettinati H, Moak D, Mueller T, Kranzler HR. Alleles of a functional serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism are associated with major depression in alcoholics. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2003; 27:1402-8. [PMID: 14506400 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000085588.11073.bb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotonergic neurotransmission has been implicated in the pathogenesis of both alcohol dependence and mood disorders and may therefore be important in understanding the pathophysiology of comorbid alcohol dependence and major depression. Studies of the association of these disorders with a functional polymorphism in the promoter region of the gene encoding the serotonin transporter protein (locus SLC6A4) have yielded inconsistent results. Because the convergence of these disorders may provide a refined phenotype, we examined the association of serotonin (5-HT) transporter linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) alleles to comorbid alcohol dependence and major depression. METHODS A sample of 296 European American and 16 African American patients with comorbid alcohol dependence and major depression was recruited from treatment studies. The control group included 260 European Americans and 43 African Americans; all were screened to exclude the presence of a mood or substance use disorder. DNA isolated from whole blood was polymerase chain reaction-amplified, and genotypes were assigned on the basis of agarose gel size fractionation. RESULTS The frequency of the short allele in the patient group was in the range of those previously reported for samples with unipolar depression but was significantly more common than among controls (short allele frequency of cases, 45.8%; controls, 39.8%; chi(2)(1) = 4.02; p = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS With respect to the frequency of the short allele at the SLC6A4 locus (5-HTTLPR), major depression in alcoholics is similar to major depression in nonalcoholics. Further efforts to characterize depressed alcoholics and to examine genetic predictors of response to antidepressant treatment seem warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Nellissery
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington 06030-2103, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Dick DM, Foroud T. Candidate genes for alcohol dependence: a review of genetic evidence from human studies. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2003; 27:868-79. [PMID: 12766633 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000065436.24221.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Dick
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, 975 W. Walnut Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-0525, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Song J, Koller DL, Foroud T, Carr K, Zhao J, Rice J, Nurnberger JI, Begleiter H, Porjesz B, Smith TL, Schuckit MA, Edenberg HJ. Association of GABA(A) receptors and alcohol dependence and the effects of genetic imprinting. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2003; 117B:39-45. [PMID: 12555233 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.10022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
GABA receptor genes have been postulated as candidates affecting the risk for alcoholism. The potential association between genes encoding five subunits of the GABA(A) receptors and alcoholism (alcohol dependence) was analyzed in the multiplex alcoholic pedigrees collected by the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) using family-based association tests. We found consistent, although weak, linkage disequilibrium between GABRB1 (located on chromosome 4) and alcoholism (P < 0.03). Genes encoding GABRA1 and GABRA6, on chromosome 5, did not provide evidence for association with alcoholism. GABRA5 and GABRB3, on chromosome 15, were reported to be expressed uniparentally from the paternal chromosome. Analyses of paternal transmission of alleles of GABRA5 provided evidence for association with alcoholism, particularly in the Caucasian population and with the stricter ICD-10 definition of alcoholism (P < 0.004). Evidence of association was also observed during paternal transmission with GABRB3 in the Caucasian population (P < 0.007). Maternal transmissions provided no evidence for association. These data are consistent with an association between the expressed alleles in the GABA(A)-gene cluster on chromosome 15 and alcoholism that is modulated by genetic imprinting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiuzhou Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202-5122, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Hill EM, Stoltenberg SF, Bullard KH, Li S, Zucker RA, Burmeister M. Antisocial alcoholism and serotonin-related polymorphisms: association tests. Psychiatr Genet 2002; 12:143-53. [PMID: 12218658 DOI: 10.1097/00041444-200209000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Central serotonin dysfunction appears to be related to a subtype of alcoholism with antisocial impulsive features (type II; antisocial alcoholism). The serotonergic deficit may be associated with greater impulsivity, which in turn facilitates both alcohol dependence and antisocial behavior. The present study tested association of antisocial impulsive alcoholism with candidate genes related to serotonergic neurotransmission, using families. Eight markers were assayed using polymerase chain reaction: tryptophan hydroxylase (intron 7), the serotonin transporter SLC6A4 (VNTR 9/12), HTTLPR, the three serotonin receptor types HTR1B (G861C), HTR2A (T102C) and HTR2C (Cys23Ser), monoamine oxidase A (T1460C), and (CA)(n). Eligible probands had early age of onset of alcoholism, child conduct disorder, and two or more symptoms of adult Antisocial Personality Disorder. This sample included 35 probands, their parents, and some siblings (n = 116). Association tests were conducted using the Haplotype Relative Risk method for antisocial alcoholism diagnosis and the George-Elston regression method (the S.A.G.E. program ASSOC) for quantitative antisocial alcoholism severity. Haplotype Relative Risk analyses were not significant at the 0.05 level for any of the markers. Trends suggestive for future research occurred for tryptophan hydroxylase and HTR2A. Quantitative ASSOC analyses showed significant marker effects (P < 0.05) for both monoamine oxidase A markers, which were in linkage disequilibrium. Antisocial alcoholism symptom severity was higher with monoamine oxidase A C homozygotes or hemizygotes, indicating that low monoamine oxidase activity may be important. Future studies are needed to examine joint and interactive effects of serotonin-related markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Hill
- Department of Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, Michigan 48219, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kranzler H, Lappalainen J, Nellissery M, Gelernter J. Association Study of Alcoholism Subtypes with a Functional Promoter Polymorphism in the Serotonin Transporter Protein Gene. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2002. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2002.tb02675.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
41
|
Lotrich FE, Pollock BG, Ferrell RE. Polymorphism of the serotonin transporter: implications for the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOGENOMICS : GENOMICS-RELATED RESEARCH IN DRUG DEVELOPMENT AND CLINICAL PRACTICE 2002; 1:153-64. [PMID: 12083964 DOI: 10.2165/00129785-200101030-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to treat a number of psychiatric disorders related to mood and anxiety, and variations in the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene may be involved in a number of these. A polymorphic site in the promoter region is associated with differences in 5-HTT gene expression. Studies suggest that the short allele of the 5-HTT promoter (5-HTTPR) site can adversely influence the antidepressant response to SSRIs, and is associated with anxiety-related traits, depression, and impulsive disorders such as alcohol abuse. Several studies do not replicate these findings; potential confounding factors include age, gender, and population stratification. Other 5-HTT polymorphisms also exist. For example, individuals with the short allele of a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) polymorphism, located in the second intron, may have reduced responsiveness to SSRIs, and the STin2.12 allele at this site has been associated with bipolar disorder. Findings both supporting and inconsistent with these conclusions are reviewed. The clinical effects of the polymorphisms may be associated with effects on platelets, neural 5-HTT levels, and indices of serotonergic function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F E Lotrich
- Department of Psychiatry, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinics, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
Seasonal changes in mood and behavior (seasonality) are common throughout the population. Alcohol use and alcohol-related problems are also very common in society. Recent data suggest that seasonality is closely related to alcoholism. Some patients with alcoholism have a seasonal pattern to their alcohol abuse. Patients with alcoholism may be self-medicating an underlying seasonal affective disorder (SAD) with alcohol or manifesting a seasonal pattern to alcohol-induced depression. Family studies also suggest that there is a relationship between alcoholism and SAD. The author proposes that there is a genetic link between seasonality and alcoholism. This relationship is complex and involves various factors. It could be an inherited personality dimension, i.e., certain personality types may predispose to both seasonality and excessive alcohol consumption. SAD may be a subtype of mood disorder that is closely related to alcoholism. More studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms involved in the relationship between seasonality and alcohol use.
Collapse
|
43
|
Patkar AA, Berrettini WH, Hoehe M, Thornton CC, Gottheil E, Hill K, Weinstein SP. Serotonin transporter polymorphisms and measures of impulsivity, aggression, and sensation seeking among African-American cocaine-dependent individuals. Psychiatry Res 2002; 110:103-15. [PMID: 12057823 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-1781(02)00098-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Considerable evidence indicates that serotonergic mechanisms, particularly the serotonin transporter (5HTT), may mediate central effects of cocaine and may also be involved in impulsive and aggressive behavior. We investigated whether polymorphisms in the 5HTT gene were related to traits of impulsivity, sensation seeking, and aggression among cocaine abusers. Standardized measures of these personality traits were obtained in a sample of 105 severely affected cocaine-dependent African-American subjects and 44 African-American controls. Two polymorphisms of the 5HTT gene were examined involving the 5' promoter (5HTTLPR) region and a 17 base pair variable-number-tandem-repeat (VNTR) marker among cocaine patients. No significant relationships were observed between polymorphic variants of the 5HTTLPR and VNTR regions and scores on any of the trait measures. Similarly, demographic variables and measures of severity of substance use and depression were unrelated to allele frequencies or genotype distributions of the variants among cocaine patients. As expected, cocaine patients scored significantly higher on total scores of impulsivity, aggression, and sensation seeking compared to controls. The findings do not seem to support an association between these polymorphisms in the 5HTT gene and impulsive-aggressive traits among cocaine-dependent African-American individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin A Patkar
- Division of Substance Abuse Programs, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Naranjo CA, Chu AY, Tremblay LK. Neurodevelopmental liabilities in alcohol dependence: central serotonin and dopamine dysfunction. Neurotox Res 2002; 4:343-61. [PMID: 12829424 DOI: 10.1080/10298420290034231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholism is a complex disorder with symptoms ranging from abuse to dependence, often comorbid with depression, antisocial personality, or anxiety. Neurodevelopmental causes of the disorder are unknown but inferences are possible from current knowledge. Neurobiological studies implicate multiple brain changes, which may be characterized as premorbid or morbid. These studies have also examined specific aspects of the alcohol dependence syndrome, including alcohol reinforcement and craving. Here, we review the evidence for vulnerability factors in alcohol dependence, with an emphasis on central serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA). Serotonin dysfunction likely contributes to the development of alcoholism since studies of alcohol-preferring rodents show decreased 5-HT function on many measures. We have shown that serotonin-enhancing drugs reduce consumption and craving in mild to moderate alcoholics, yet similar studies in severely dependent individuals remain inconclusive. Studies indicate that serotonin dysfunction may contribute to the development of dependence via impaired impulse control and/or mood regulation. The mesocorticolimbic dopamine pathway represents another important pathophysiological target in alcoholism. Differences in D(2) receptor density, dopamine sensitivity, and gene expression have been linked to consumption, reinforcement, craving, and relapse. However, while DA agonists reduce self-administration in animals, we found no effect in humans with long-acting bromocriptine, a D(2) agonist. Dopamine may contribute differentially to the development of dependence via its effects on alcohol wanting, reinforcement, and reward memory. Although animal experiments show consistent roles for serotonin and dopamine in alcohol dependence, human studies are not always concordant. Such discrepancies highlight the complexity of dependence-related behaviors in humans and of identifying vulnerabilities to alcoholism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio A Naranjo
- Psychopharmacology Research Program, Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont., Canada.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Stoltenberg SF, Twitchell GR, Hanna GL, Cook EH, Fitzgerald HE, Zucker RA, Little KY. Serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism, peripheral indexes of serotonin function, and personality measures in families with alcoholism. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS 2002; 114:230-4. [PMID: 11857587 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.10187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A functional polymorphism in the regulatory region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) is considered to be a plausible candidate gene for anxiety-related personality traits and for alcoholism. Empirical support for the association between 5-HTTLPR and psychological traits has been somewhat inconsistent; however, observations of the functional dominance of the low-activity s-allele over the l-allele have been more consistent. When studying the influence of particular genes on psychological traits, it seems useful also to assess more biological intermediate traits that may mediate the effects of those genes on the traits of interest. The present study examined relationships between 5-HTTLPR genotype, whole blood serotonin (5-HT) level, and platelet 5-HT binding in 150 Caucasian subjects from 50 biological families. Individuals with the s-allele had lower average platelet 5-HT binding availability than those with the l/l genotype (P<0.025). Whole blood 5-HT level was not associated with 5-HTTLPR genotype. In adult men, those with the s-allele had higher mean scores on the NEO-FFI personality trait of openness than did those with the l/l genotype (P=0.002). The effect was not statistically significant in women (P=0.42), although it was in the same direction. Our findings do not support an association of 5-HTTLPR genotype with alcoholism diagnosis, alcoholism subtype, or the personality trait of neuroticism. The results of this pilot study suggest that further work should examine the mediation of the genetic effects on personality traits by biochemical measures and their moderation by gender.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott F Stoltenberg
- University of Michigan Addiction Research Center and Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Rezvani AH, Parsian A, Overstreet DH. The Fawn-Hooded (FH/Wjd) rat: a genetic animal model of comorbid depression and alcoholism. Psychiatr Genet 2002; 12:1-16. [PMID: 11901354 DOI: 10.1097/00041444-200203000-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The Fawn-Hooded (FH/Wjd) rat is an inbred strain of rat that has been reported to exhibit both high immobility in the forced swim test and high voluntary ethanol intake, measures that have been periodically linked with depression and alcoholism in humans. The present paper will first present a survey of the literature and previously unpublished findings that bear on the question of whether FH/Wjd rats should be considered genetic animal models of depression and alcoholism. Subsequently, behavioral studies of the FH/Wjd rats, the non-drinking ACI/N strain, and their F1 and F2 intercrosses will be described. Under free choice conditions, the FH/Wjd rat drinks up to 6 g/kg 10% ethanol per day. This intake was sufficient to render the rats tolerant to the hypothermic effects of injected ethanol (2.5 g/kg). Rats that had been voluntarily drinking for at least 6 weeks also exhibited withdrawal-induced anxiety in the social interaction, elevated plus maze, and ultrasonic vocalization tasks. The FH/Wjd rat exhibits a 25-30% increase in alcohol intake when the alcohol is returned after a 24-h period of deprivation. It responds to drugs that are effective in humans with a reduction in alcohol intake. Therefore, the FH/Wjd rat meets most of the criteria for an animal model of alcoholism. Chronic antidepressant treatments correct several of the abnormalities exhibited by the FH/Wjd rats, including the exaggerated immobility in the forced swim test. Therefore, the FH/Wjd rats also fulfill some of the criteria for an animal model of depression. On the contrary, inbred ACI/N rats do not drink much alcohol voluntarily and are quite active in the forced swim test. The FH/Wjd and ACI/N rats were intercrossed to obtain the F1 and F2 progenies, which were then tested for alcohol intake and immobility. Alcohol intake and immobility were distributed in different patterns in the F1 and F2 progenies. Alcohol intake was intermediate in the F1 progeny, while immobility was closer to the FH/Wjd parents. In the F2 progeny, chi-square analyses indicated that the distributions were significantly different. In addition, there were no significant litter effects, indicating that maternal effects did not appear to occur. There were also no significant differences among rats with different coat colors, suggesting that the Fawn-Hooded phenotype can be separated from the measures of alcohol intake and immobility. We conclude that the FH/Wjd rat is a genetic animal model of depression and alcoholism, but that the two measures reflective of these states are under separate genetic controls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir H Rezvani
- Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Martinez D, Broft A, Laruelle M. Imaging neurochemical endophenotypes: promises and pitfalls. Pharmacogenomics 2001; 2:223-37. [PMID: 11535111 DOI: 10.1517/14622416.2.3.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
A large number of polymorphisms in genes coding for neurotransmitter receptors and transporters have been associated with neuropsychiatric conditions, although few of these associations have been consistently replicated. These proteins are critical targets of psychoactive drugs and the clarification of the functional significance of these polymorphisms might offer important leads for drug development and therapeutic applications. Brain imaging techniques such as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) provide the means to monitor the expression and function of many of these proteins in the living human brain. This paper reviews brain imaging studies designed to evaluate the significance of polymorphisms in genes coding for important drug targets (e.g., the serotonin transporter [SERT], the dopamine transporter [DAT] and the dopamine D(2) receptor) in terms of expression or function. These studies illustrate the unique opportunities, as well as the pitfalls, generated by combining genetic analysis with brain imaging studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Martinez
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, Box #31, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Matsushita S, Yoshino A, Murayama M, Kimura M, Muramatsu T, Higuchi S. Association study of serotonin transporter gene regulatory region polymorphism and alcoholism. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS 2001; 105:446-50. [PMID: 11449397 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.1405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have indicated associations between a functional biallelic repetitive element in the 5' regulatory region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) and alcoholic subjects who have either dissocial personality disorder or severe withdrawal symptoms. To replicate these associations under the hypothesis that genetic polymorphism plays some role in the susceptibility or vulnerability of some subgroup of alcoholics, the associations between alcoholic subjects' genetic polymorphisms, clinical characteristics, and personality traits were examined. This case control study comprised 697 alcoholic and 270 control subjects. A questionnaire focusing on family and social background, history of drinking and alcohol withdrawal, DSM-III-R criteria for the evaluation of psychiatric conditions, and Feighner's criteria for the lifetime diagnosis and assessment of overall severity of alcoholism was administered to 373 alcoholic subjects. Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) and Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS) were used to evaluate the other 324 alcoholics. The frequency of the homozygous short allele was significantly higher in alcoholic binge drinkers than in nonbinge drinking alcoholics. There were no significant differences in the frequencies of either the 5-HTTLPR genotype or the short vs. long allele in alcoholic and control subjects. The alcoholics' 5-HTTLPR genotype and allele frequencies did not differ significantly by the severity of withdrawal symptoms or by the number of positive Feighner's diagnostic criteria. Although these results indicate an association between 5-HTTLPR and a subgroup of alcoholics characterized by binge drinking, the authors found no differences in SSS and TCI subscale scores for alcoholics with different 5-HTTLPR genotypes. Future studies of the association in other alcoholic population should take into account personality traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Matsushita
- National Institute on Alcoholism, Kurihama National Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Twitchell GR, Hanna GL, Cook EH, Stoltenberg SF, Fitzgerald HE, Zucker RA. Serotonin Transporter Promoter Polymorphism Genotype Is Associated With Behavioral Disinhibition and Negative Affect in Children of Alcoholics. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2001. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2001.tb02302.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
50
|
Abstract
Disturbances of the serotonergic pathway have been implicated in many psychiatric disorders, including alcoholism, aggression, schizophrenia and depression. The personality dimension of harm avoidance is correlated positively with the activity of mesolimbic serotonergic neurons. The goal of this study was to determine the role of the genes in this pathway in the development of type II alcoholism. A sample of alcoholics and normal controls were screened with the variations in tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), serotonin receptors (5-HT2A and 5-HT2C), serotonin transporter (5-HTT), and monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) genes. The results of association studies for type II alcoholics were the most significant with 5-HTT (P = 0.011) and MAO-A (P = 0.029) genes. However, after correction for multiple comparisons, none of the results reached the significance level. These data indicate that the genes in the serotonergic pathway may be involved in the development of type II alcoholism but the gene effects are very small.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Parsian
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|