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COMT Val/Met and Psychopathic Traits in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and New Evidence of a Developmental Trajectory toward Psychopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031782. [PMID: 35163702 PMCID: PMC8836546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychopathic traits in youth may lead to adult criminal behaviors/psychopathy. The Val158Met polymorphism of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) may influence the risk for psychopathy-related behaviors, while acting as a biomarker for predicting treatment response to dopaminergic medications. The literature shows inconsistent findings, making the interpretation of COMT's role difficult. The aims of this article are (i) to conduct a systematic review to analyze the effects of COMT Val158Met on psychopathic traits in children and adolescents, and (ii) to present new evidence on the developmental trajectory of the association of Val158Met and youth psychopathic traits. For the systematic review, a literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, OVID Medline and PsychINFO with the search terms for psychopathic traits, Val158Met and age of interest. In our genotype study, the COMT Val158Met genotype of 293 youth with European ancestry was analyzed in association with the psychopathy-related behavior scores from the Child Behavior Checklist and the Psychopathy Screening Device. To examine the potential influence of developmental changes, the sample was split into at or above and below age 13, and analyses were performed in males and females separately. The literature search yielded twenty-eight articles to be included in the systematic review, which demonstrated mixed results on the association depending on environmental factors, sex ratios, age groups and behavioral disorder diagnoses. The results from our genotype study revealed that Met homozygous youth in the below age 13 group and conversely Val carrier youth in the above age 13 group were more likely to display psychopathic traits. To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically review the effects of COMT Val158Met on psychopathic traits in childhood and adolescence, and to provide new evidence on the changing effects of Val158Met on psychopathy-related behaviors with development. Elucidating the role of the COMT genotype in conjunction with the child versus adolescent stage of development for psychopathic traits may help predict treatment response, and may lead to early intervention and prevention strategies.
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Nilsen FM, Tulve NS. A systematic review and meta-analysis examining the interrelationships between chemical and non-chemical stressors and inherent characteristics in children with ADHD. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 180:108884. [PMID: 31706600 PMCID: PMC6937727 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Children may be more vulnerable to the combined interactions of chemical and non-chemical stressors from their built, natural, and social environments when compared to adults. Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed childhood neurodevelopmental disorder and is considered a major public health issue, as 75% of childhood cases persist into adulthood. ADHD is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, with the neurotransmitter serotonin regulating these symptoms. Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) aids in serotonin uptake and is often implicated in behavioral and emotional disorders, including ADHD. When children are exposed to cigarette smoke, bisphenol A (BPA), or organophosphate pesticides, MAOA activity is inhibited. Non-chemical stressors, such as traumatic childhood experiences, and lifestyle factors, complicate the relationship between genotype and exposures to chemical stressors. But the co-occurrence among outcomes between exposures to chemical stressors, non-chemical stressors, and the low activity MAOA genotype suggest that mental illness in children may be influenced by multiple interacting factors. In this systematic review, we examine the existing literature that combines exposures to chemical and non-chemical stressors (specifically childhood trauma), MAOA characteristics, and ADHD diagnosis to investigate the interrelationships present. We observe that chemical (lead [Pb], phthalates/plasticizers, persistent organic pollutants, and cigarette smoke) exposure is significantly related to ADHD in children. We also observed that existing literature examining the interaction between MAOA, exposures to chemical stressors, and traumatic experiences and their effect on ADHD outcomes is sparse. We recommend that future studies investigating childhood ADHD include chemical and non-chemical stressors and inherent characteristics to gain a holistic understanding of childhood mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M Nilsen
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Post-Doctoral Participant, U.S. EPA, Office of Research and Development, National Exposure Research Laboratory, 109 TW Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Nicolle S Tulve
- U.S. EPA, Office of Research and Development, National Exposure Research Laboratory, 109 TW Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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Gao Q, Liu L, Li HM, Tang YL, Chen Y, Wang YF, Qian QJ. Interaction Between Season of Birth and COMT Val158Met (rs4680) in ADHD in a Large Sample of Chinese Han Participants. J Atten Disord 2018; 22:886-895. [PMID: 26486601 DOI: 10.1177/1087054715608441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the interaction between catechol-O-methyltransferase gene (COMT) Val108/158Met (rs4680) and season of birth (SOB) on ADHD and its symptoms. METHOD We conducted transmission disequilibrium tests (TDTs) in 976 trios, then further performed the above analyses in subgroups according to SOB. Quantitative analyses were performed for ADHD symptoms evaluated by ADHD Rating Scale-IV in 1,530 ADHD cases. RESULTS Overall, there was no association between COMT and ADHD. After stratification, we found an increased transmission of the Val allele in the trios born in spring, while a decreased transmission was observed in the autumn months. We also observed a significant interaction between Val108/158Met and SOB on ADHD symptoms. Among those born in spring, Met carriers had milder ADHD symptoms compared with Val homozygotes, whereas opposite association was found in those born in autumn. CONCLUSION Our study provided evidence for the modifying effect of SOB on the association between COMT and ADHD along with its symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Gao
- 1 Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.,2 Ministry of Health, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Liu
- 1 Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.,2 Ministry of Health, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Mei Li
- 1 Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.,2 Ministry of Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Lang Tang
- 3 Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yun Chen
- 1 Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.,2 Ministry of Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- 1 Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.,2 Ministry of Health, Beijing, China
| | - Qiu-Jin Qian
- 1 Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China.,2 Ministry of Health, Beijing, China
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Hwang IW, Lim MH, Kwon HJ, Jin HJ. Association of Monoamine Oxidase A (MAOA) Gene uVNTR and rs6323 Polymorphisms with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in Korean Children. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2018; 54:E32. [PMID: 30344263 PMCID: PMC6122096 DOI: 10.3390/medicina54030032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. The genetic cause of ADHD is still unclear, but the dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic pathways have shown a strong association. In particular, monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) plays an important role in the catabolism of these neurotransmitters, suggesting that the MAOA gene is associated with ADHD. Therefore, we evaluated the relationship between the MAOA gene polymorphisms (uVNTR and rs6323) and ADHD. Materials and methods: We collected a total of 472 Korean children (150 ADHD cases and 322 controls) using the Korean version of the Dupaul Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scales (K-ARS). Genotyping was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP. The Behavior Assessment System for Children Second Edition (BASC-2) was used to evaluate the problem behaviors within ADHD children. Results: We observed significant associations between the rs6323 and ADHD in girls (p < 0.05) and the TT genotype was observed as a protective factor against ADHD in the recessive model (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.100⁻0.950, p = 0.022). The 3.5R-G haplotype showed a significant association in ADHD boys (p = 0.043). The analysis of subtype also revealed that the 4.5R allele of uVNTR was a risk factor for the development of ADHD in the combined symptom among girls (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.014⁻3.453, p = 0.031). In the BASC-2 analysis, the MAOA uVNTR polymorphism was associated with activities of daily living in ADHD boys (p = 0.017). Conclusion: These results suggest the importance of the MAOA gene polymorphisms in the development of ADHD in Korean children. A larger sample set and functional studies are required to further elucidate of our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Wook Hwang
- Environmental Health Center, Dankook Medical Hospital, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
| | - Myung Ho Lim
- Environmental Health Center, Dankook Medical Hospital, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
- Department of Psychology, College of Public Welfare, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
| | - Ho Jang Kwon
- Environmental Health Center, Dankook Medical Hospital, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
| | - Han Jun Jin
- Environmental Health Center, Dankook Medical Hospital, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Korea.
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Assessing the interplay between multigenic and environmental influences on adolescent to adult pathways of antisocial behaviors. Dev Psychopathol 2017; 29:1947-1967. [DOI: 10.1017/s0954579417001511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe current investigation utilized a developmental psychopathology approach to test the hypothesis that multigenic (i.e., dopaminergic and serotonergic genes) and multienvironmental factors interactively contribute to developmental pathways of antisocial behavior (ASB). A sample of 8,834 Caucasian individuals from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) were used to (a) examine the developmental pathways of ASB from age 13 to 32 using growth mixture modeling, (b) compute weighted multigenic risk scores (Add Health MRS) for ASB from six well-characterized polymorphisms in dopamine and serotonin genes, and (c) test the interaction between the Add Health MRS and a measures of support (incorporating indicators of both positive and negative support from parents and schools). Four pathways of adolescent to adult ASB emerged from the growth mixture models: low, adolescence-peaked, high decline, and persistent. Add Health MRS predicted the persistent ASB pathway, but not other ASB pathways. Males with high Add Health MRS, but not low MRS, had significantly greater odds of being in the adolescence-peaked pathway relative to the low pathway at low levels of school connectedness. Nonfamilial environmental influences during adolescence may have a cumulative impact on the development of ASB, particularly among males with greater underlying genetic risks.
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Akutagava-Martins GC, Salatino-Oliveira A, Kieling C, Genro JP, Polanczyk GV, Anselmi L, Menezes AM, Gonçalves H, Wehrmeister FC, Barros FC, Callegari-Jacques SM, Rohde LA, Hutz MH. COMT and DAT1 genes are associated with hyperactivity and inattention traits in the 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort: evidence of sex-specific combined effect. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2016; 41:405-412. [PMID: 27327562 PMCID: PMC5082511 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.150270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms are dimensionally distributed in the population. This study aimed to assess the role of the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and of the dopamine transporter (DAT1) genes on ADHD symptoms in the general population. METHODS We investigated 4101 individuals from the 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study using the parent version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at ages 11 and 15 years. The SDQ hyperactivity/inattention scores were the main outcomes. RESULTS Linear regression analyses demonstrated that the increasing number of COMT158Val and DAT1 10R alleles significantly predicted increasing SDQ hyperactivity/inattention scores in boys at both 11 and 15 years of age (β coefficient = 0.049, t = 2.189, p = 0.029, R2 = 0.012, and β coefficient = 0.064, t = 2.832, p = 0.005, R2 = 0.008, respectively). The presence of both COMT158Val and DAT1 10R alleles was also associated with full categorical ADHD diagnosis at 18 years of age in boys (χ2 = 4.561, p = 0.033, odds ratio 2.473, 95% confidence interval 1.048-5.838) from this cohort. We did not observe these associations in girls. LIMITATIONS Our analyses of SDQ hyperactivity/inattention scores were not corrected for SDQ scores of conduct problems because these variables were highly correlated. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates a role for COMT and DAT1 genes on hyperactivity/inattention symptoms and provides further support for ADHD as the extreme of traits that vary in the population. It also confirms previous evidence for sexual dimorphism on COMT and DAT1 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mara H. Hutz
- Correspondence to: M.H. Hutz, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Departamento de Genética, Caixa postal, RS, Brazil;
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Qayyum A, Zai CC, Hirata Y, Tiwari AK, Cheema S, Nowrouzi B, Beitchman JH, Kennedy JL. The Role of the Catechol-o-Methyltransferase (COMT) GeneVal158Met in Aggressive Behavior, a Review of Genetic Studies. Curr Neuropharmacol 2016; 13:802-14. [PMID: 26630958 PMCID: PMC4759319 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x13666150612225836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggressive behaviors have become a major public health problem, and early-onset aggression can lead to outcomes such as substance abuse, antisocial personality disorder among other issues. In recent years, there has been an increase in research in the molecular and genetic underpinnings of aggressive behavior, and one of the candidate genes codes for the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). COMT is involved in catabolizing catecholamines such as dopamine. These neurotransmitters appear to be involved in regulating mood which can contribute to aggression. The most common gene variant studied in the COMT gene is the Valine (Val) to Methionine (Met) substitution at codon 158. We will be reviewing the current literature on this gene variant in aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - James L Kennedy
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 1R8 Canada.
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Unal D, Unal MF, Alikasifoglu M, Cetinkaya A. Genetic Variations in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Subtypes and Treatment Resistant Cases. Psychiatry Investig 2016; 13:427-33. [PMID: 27482244 PMCID: PMC4965653 DOI: 10.4306/pi.2016.13.4.427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2015] [Revised: 12/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE ObjectiveaaWe evaluated the distribution of alpha-2A adrenergic receptor (ADRA2A) and catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among ADHD subtypes and other homogeneous patient populations including treatment-resistant cases and patients with high symptom severity. METHODS Methodsaa121 ADHD patients aged 6-18 years were included in the study. Diagnosis and subtypes designation were confirmed using the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (K-SADS) and symptoms were evaluated using the Conners' Parent (CPRS) and Teacher Rating Scales (CTRS). The response to methylphenidate was assessed objectively using the Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S) and Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAS) as well as the Continuous Performance (CPT) and Trail Making tests (TMT-A, B). Patients were genotyped for ADRA2A (rs1800544) and COMT (rs4680) SNPs by PCR/RFLP and compared to a gender-matched control group. RESULTS Although there was no association of COMT (rs4680) SNP with symptoms or diagnosis, the ADRA2A polymorphism, low socioeconomic status (SES), and comorbid psychiatric diagnosis were all associated with poor response to methylphenidate in logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION Clinicians may consider adjuvant strategies when these negative factors are present to increase the success of tailored ADHD treatments in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilek Unal
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Fatih Unal
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Alikasifoglu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Arda Cetinkaya
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Fernàndez-Castillo N, Cormand B. Aggressive behavior in humans: Genes and pathways identified through association studies. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2016; 171:676-96. [PMID: 26773414 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Aggressive behavior has both genetic and environmental components. Many association studies have been performed to identify genetic factors underlying aggressive behaviors in humans. In this review we summarize the previous work performed in this field, considering both candidate gene (CGAS) and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), excluding those performed in samples where the primary diagnosis is a psychiatric or neurological disorder other than an aggression-related phenotype. Subsequently, we have studied the enrichment of pathways and functions in GWAS data. The results of our searches show that most CGAS have identified associations with genes involved in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission and in hormone regulation. On the other hand, GWAS have not yet identified genome-wide significant associations, but top nominal findings are related to several signaling pathways, such as axon guidance or estrogen receptor signaling, and also to neurodevelopmental processes and synaptic plasticity. Future studies should use larger samples, homogeneous phenotypes and standardized measurements to identify genes that underlie aggressive behaviors in humans. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noèlia Fernàndez-Castillo
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Catalonia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
| | - Bru Cormand
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Catalonia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
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Veroude K, Zhang-James Y, Fernàndez-Castillo N, Bakker MJ, Cormand B, Faraone SV. Genetics of aggressive behavior: An overview. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2016; 171B:3-43. [PMID: 26345359 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) address three types of aggression: frustrative non-reward, defensive aggression and offensive/proactive aggression. This review sought to present the evidence for genetic underpinnings of aggression and to determine to what degree prior studies have examined phenotypes that fit into the RDoC framework. Although the constructs of defensive and offensive aggression have been widely used in the animal genetics literature, the human literature is mostly agnostic with regard to all the RDoC constructs. We know from twin studies that about half the variance in behavior may be explained by genetic risk factors. This is true for both dimensional, trait-like, measures of aggression and categorical definitions of psychopathology. The non-shared environment seems to have a moderate influence with the effects of shared environment being unclear. Human molecular genetic studies of aggression are in an early stage. The most promising candidates are in the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems along with hormonal regulators. Genome-wide association studies have not yet achieved genome-wide significance, but current samples are too small to detect variants having the small effects one would expect for a complex disorder. The strongest molecular evidence for a genetic basis for aggression comes from animal models comparing aggressive and non-aggressive strains or documenting the effects of gene knockouts. Although we have learned much from these prior studies, future studies should improve the measurement of aggression by using a systematic method of measurement such as that proposed by the RDoC initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Veroude
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yanli Zhang-James
- Departments of Psychiatry and of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York.,Departments of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York
| | - Noèlia Fernàndez-Castillo
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Catalonia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
| | - Mireille J Bakker
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bru Cormand
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Catalonia, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
| | - Stephen V Faraone
- Departments of Psychiatry and of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York.,Departments of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York.,K.G. Jebsen Centre for Research on Neuropsychiatric Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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11
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Liu L, Cheng J, Li H, Yang L, Qian Q, Wang Y. The possible involvement of genetic variants of NET1 in the etiology of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder comorbid with oppositional defiant disorder. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2015; 56:58-66. [PMID: 24942521 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) often coexist and shared some genetic influences. Evidence from the existing literature indicated that comorbid with ODD may increase the heterogeneity of ADHD genetics. Our present study sought to investigate the role of norepinephrine transporter gene (NET1) for ADHD comorbid with ODD. METHODS Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of NET1 were genotyped for a total of 1,815 ADHD cases, including 587 subjects (32.3%) with ODD. Chi-square tests were conducted for pseudo case-control study comparing allelic and genotypic distributions between ADHD with and without ODD. Among them, there were 1,249 probands together with their parents composing trios for family-based association studies using transmission disequilibrium tests (TDTs). In addition, 1,337 ADHD probands have detailed information of ODD symptoms and were included for quantitative analyses with genotypes using analyses of covariance (ANCOVA). To consider the overlap and correlation of other comorbidities with ODD and eliminate their potential confounding effect, we further repeated above analyses for 'pure ADHD+ODD' versus 'ADHD-only' after excluding other comorbidities except for ODD. RESULTS The pseudo case-control study showed different allelic and genotypic distributions of SNP rs3785143 between ADHD with ODD and those without ODD. Family-based association tests indicated overtransmission of the T allele of rs3785143 in ADHD with ODD trios, but no biased transmission in those without ODD. ANCOVA showed association between genotypes of rs3785143 with ODD symptoms in ADHD probands, especially with 'Argumentative/Defiant Behavior (ADB)' dimension after controlling gender, age, clinical subtypes and intelligence. Above association still existed after removing the samples with other comorbidities. CONCLUSION NET1 was associated with comorbidity of ODD and ODD symptoms in ADHD probands. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering the comorbidity of ODD in ADHD genetic studies, especially ADHD with ADB. However, further replication in independent sample or different populations is still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University), Beijing, China
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12
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Williams SM. Epistasis in the risk of human neuropsychiatric disease. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1253:71-93. [PMID: 25403528 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2155-3_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disease represents the ideal class of disease to assess the role of epistasis, as more genes are expressed in the brain than in any other tissue. In this chapter, two well-studied neuropsychiatric diseases are examined, Alzheimer's disease (AD) and schizophrenia, which have been shown to have multiple and, often, replicated interactions that associate with clinical endpoints or related phenotypes. In each case, a single gene is represented in a plurality of epistatic interactions, apolipoprotein E (APOE) for AD and catechol-O-methyltransferase for schizophrenia. Interestingly, of the two, only APOE has clear-cut and consistent evidence for a marginal association. Unraveling the underlying reasons is important in understanding both genetic etiology and architecture as well as how to use genetics to provide better personalized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M Williams
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Quantitative Biomedical Sciences, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, 78 College ST, HB 6044, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA,
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GAO Q, LIU L, QIAN Q, WANG Y. Advances in molecular genetic studies of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in China. SHANGHAI ARCHIVES OF PSYCHIATRY 2014; 26:194-206. [PMID: 25317006 PMCID: PMC4194002 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1002-0829.2014.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric condition in children worldwide that typically includes a combination of symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Genetic factors are believed to be important in the development and course of ADHD so many candidate genes studies and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been conducted in search of the genetic mechanisms that cause or influence the condition. This review provides an overview of gene association and pharmacogenetic studies of ADHD from mainland China and elsewhere that use Han Chinese samples. To date, studies from China and elsewhere remain inconclusive so future studies need to consider alternative analytic techniques and test new biological hypotheses about the relationship of neurotransmission and neurodevelopment to the onset and course of this disabling condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian GAO
- Peking University Sixth Hospital Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu LIU
- Peking University Sixth Hospital Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiujin QIAN
- Peking University Sixth Hospital Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yufeng WANG
- Peking University Sixth Hospital Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Buades-Rotger M, Gallardo-Pujol D. The role of the monoamine oxidase A gene in moderating the response to adversity and associated antisocial behavior: a review. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2014; 7:185-200. [PMID: 25114607 PMCID: PMC4124068 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s40458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary factors are increasingly attracting the interest of behavioral scientists and practitioners. Our aim in the present article is to introduce some state-of-the-art topics in behavioral genetics, as well as selected findings in the field, in order to illustrate how genetic makeup can modulate the impact of environmental factors. We focus on the most-studied polymorphism to date for antisocial responses to adversity: the monoamine oxidase A gene. Advances, caveats, and promises of current research are reviewed. We also discuss implications for the use of genetic information in applied settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macià Buades-Rotger
- Department of Personality, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain ; Department of Neurology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - David Gallardo-Pujol
- Department of Personality, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain ; Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior (IR3C), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Ficks CA, Waldman ID. Candidate genes for aggression and antisocial behavior: a meta-analysis of association studies of the 5HTTLPR and MAOA-uVNTR. Behav Genet 2014; 44:427-44. [PMID: 24902785 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-014-9661-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Variation in central serotonin levels due to genetic mutations or experimental modifications has been associated with the manifestation of aggression in humans and animals. Many studies have examined whether common variants in serotonergic genes are implicated in aggressive or antisocial behaviors (ASB) in human samples. The two most commonly studied polymorphisms have been the serotonin transporter linked polymorphic region of the serotonin transporter gene (5HTTLPR) and the 30 base pair variable number of tandem repeats of the monoamine oxidase A gene (MAOA-uVNTR). Despite the aforementioned theoretical justification for these polymorphisms, findings across studies have been mixed and are thus difficult to interpret. A meta-analysis of associations of the 5HTTLPR and MAOA-uVNTR with ASB was conducted to determine: (1) the overall magnitude of effects for each polymorphism, (2) the extent of heterogeneity in effect sizes across studies and the likelihood of publication bias, and (3) whether sample-level or study-level characteristics could explain observed heterogeneity across studies. Both the 5HTTLPR and the MAOA-uVNTR were significantly associated with ASB across studies. There was also significant and substantial heterogeneity in the effect sizes for both markers, but this heterogeneity was not explained by any sample-level or study-level characteristics examined. We did not find any evidence for publication bias across studies for the MAOA-uVNTR, but there was evidence for an oversampling of statistically significant effect sizes for the 5HTTLPR. These findings provide support for the modest role of common serotonergic variants in ASB. Implications regarding the role of serotonin in antisocial behavior and the conceptualization of antisocial and aggressive phenotypes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney A Ficks
- Psychology Department, Emory University, 36 Eagle Row, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA,
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Karmakar A, Maitra S, Verma D, Chakraborti B, Goswami R, Ghosh P, Sinha S, Mohanakumar KP, Usha R, Mukhopadhyay K. Potential contribution of monoamine oxidase a gene variants in ADHD and behavioral co-morbidities: scenario in eastern Indian probands. Neurochem Res 2014; 39:843-52. [PMID: 24652311 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1276-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Revised: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most frequently diagnosed behavioral disorder in children with a high frequency of co-morbid conditions like conduct disorder (CD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). These traits are controlled by neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA), a mitochondrial enzyme involved in the degradation of amines, has been reported to be associated with aggression, impulsivity, depression, and mood changes. We hypothesized that MAOA can have a potential role in ADHD associated CD/ODD and analyzed 24 markers in a group of Indo-Caucasoid subjects. ADHD probands and controls (N = 150 each) matched for ethnicity and gender were recruited following the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders-IV. Appropriate scales were used for measuring CD and ODD traits. Markers were genotyped by PCR-based methods and data obtained analyzed using the Cocaphase program under UNPHASED. Only eight markers were found to be polymorphic. rs6323 "G" allele showed higher frequencies in ADHD (P = 0.0023), ADHD + CD (P = 0.03) and ADHD + ODD (P = 0.01) as compared to controls. Haplotype analysis revealed statistically significant difference for three haplotypes in ADHD cases (P < 0.02). Statistically significant differences were also noticed for haplotypes in ADHD + CD and ADHD + ODD cases (P < 0.01). LD analysis showed significant variation in different groups. Multidimensionality reduction analysis showed independent as well as interactive effects of markers. Genotypes showed correlation with behavioral problems in ADHD and ADHD + CD. We interpret that MAOA gene variants may contribute to the etiology of ADHD as well as associated co-morbid CD and ODD in this ethnic group.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Karmakar
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, 482, Madudah, Plot I-24, Sec.-J, E.M. Bypass, Kolkata, 700107, India
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Gold MS, Blum K, Oscar-Berman M, Braverman ER. Low dopamine function in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: should genotyping signify early diagnosis in children? Postgrad Med 2014; 126:153-77. [PMID: 24393762 DOI: 10.3810/pgm.2014.01.2735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is present in 8% to 12% of children, and 4% of adults worldwide. Children with ADHD can have learning impairments, poor selfesteem, social dysfunction, and an increased risk of substance abuse, including cigarette smoking. Overall, the rate of treatment with medication for patients with ADHD has been increasing since 2008, with ≥ 2 million children now being treated with stimulants. The rise of adolescent prescription ADHD medication abuse has occurred along with a concomitant increase of stimulant medication availability. Of adults presenting with a substance use disorder (SUD), 20% to 30% have concurrent ADHD, and 20% to 40% of adults with ADHD have a history of SUD. Following a brief review of the etiology of ADHD, its diagnosis and treatment, we focus on the benefits of early and appropriate testing for a predisposition to ADHD. We suggest that by genotyping patients for a number of known, associated dopaminergic polymorphisms, especially at an early age, misdiagnoses and/or over-diagnosis can be reduced. Ethical and legal issues of early genotyping are considered. As many as 30% of individuals with ADHD are estimated to either have secondary side-effects or are not responsive to stimulant medication. We also consider the benefits of non-stimulant medication and alternative treatment modalities, which include diet, herbal medications, iron supplementation, and neurofeedback. With the goals of improving treatment of patients with ADHD and SUD prevention, we encourage further work in both genetic diagnosis and novel treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
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The association between the catechol-O-methyltransferase Val108/158Met polymorphism and hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms in youth. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 230:69-76. [PMID: 23715639 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention are major symptoms occurring in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This disorder is highly heritable, multifactorial, polygenic, and associated primarily with dysfunctions of dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and serotonergic systems. OBJECTIVES The present study tested the possible association of the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) Val108/158Met (rs4680) polymorphism with hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms in male youth. METHOD Polymorphism COMT Val108/158Met was analyzed in 807 male unrelated Caucasian young subjects: 231 healthy controls, 195 subjects with moderate hyperactive symptoms and 254 subjects with moderate inattentive symptoms, 111 subjects with severe hyperactive symptoms and 90 subjects with severe inattentive symptoms, all evaluated using Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Questionnaire IV criteria. RESULTS The frequency of the COMT genotypes, alleles, and the homozygous Met/Met genotype versus Val carriers (χ²) test with standardized residuals) differed significantly between subjects without and subjects with hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms. In addition, significantly higher hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive scores were found in subjects with the Met/Met genotype compared to carriers of other COMT genotypes. These significant results were due to the more frequent occurrence of Met/Met genotype or the Met allele in subjects with moderate and severe hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms compared to matched controls. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the Met/Met genotype or the Met allele of the COMT Val108/158Met, contributing to higher dopaminergic activity, are significantly overrepresented in subjects with moderate or severe hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms, and that this polymorphism is significantly associated with hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms in young boys and adolescents.
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Catecholaminergic gene variants: contribution in ADHD and associated comorbid attributes in the eastern Indian probands. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:918410. [PMID: 24163823 PMCID: PMC3791561 DOI: 10.1155/2013/918410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Revised: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Contribution of genes in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been explored in various populations, and several genes were speculated to contribute small but additive effects. We have assessed variants in four genes, DDC (rs3837091 and rs3735273), DRD2 (rs1800496, rs1801028, and rs1799732), DRD4 (rs4646984 and rs4646983), and COMT (rs165599 and rs740603) in Indian ADHD subjects with comorbid attributes. Cases were recruited following the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders-IV-TR after obtaining informed written consent. DNA isolated from peripheral blood leukocytes of ADHD probands (N = 170), their parents (N = 310), and ethnically matched controls (n = 180) was used for genotyping followed by population- and family-based analyses by the UNPHASED program. DRD4 sites showed significant difference in allelic frequencies by case-control analysis, while DDC and COMT exhibited bias in familial transmission (P < 0.05). rs3837091 “AGAG,” rs3735273 “A,” rs1799732 “C,” rs740603 “G,” rs165599 “G” and single repeat alleles of rs4646984/rs4646983 showed positive correlation with co-morbid characteristics (P < 0.05). Multi dimensionality reduction analysis of case-control data revealed significant interactive effects of all four genes (P < 0.001), while family-based data showed interaction between DDC and DRD2 (P = 0.04). This first study on these gene variants in Indo-Caucasoid ADHD probands and associated co-morbid conditions indicates altered dopaminergic neurotransmission in ADHD.
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The neurobiology of oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder: altered functioning in three mental domains. Dev Psychopathol 2012; 25:193-207. [PMID: 22800761 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579412000272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses neurobiological studies of oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder within the conceptual framework of three interrelated mental domains: punishment processing, reward processing, and cognitive control. First, impaired fear conditioning, reduced cortisol reactivity to stress, amygdala hyporeactivity to negative stimuli, and altered serotonin and noradrenaline neurotransmission suggest low punishment sensitivity, which may compromise the ability of children and adolescents to make associations between inappropriate behaviors and forthcoming punishments. Second, sympathetic nervous system hyporeactivity to incentives, low basal heart rate associated with sensation seeking, orbitofrontal cortex hyporeactiviy to reward, and altered dopamine functioning suggest a hyposensitivity to reward. The associated unpleasant emotional state may make children and adolescents prone to sensation-seeking behavior such as rule breaking, delinquency, and substance abuse. Third, impairments in executive functions, especially when motivational factors are involved, as well as structural deficits and impaired functioning of the paralimbic system encompassing the orbitofrontal and cingulate cortex, suggest impaired cognitive control over emotional behavior. In the discussion we argue that more insight into the neurobiology of oppositional defiance disorder and conduct disorder may be obtained by studying these disorders separately and by paying attention to the heterogeneity of symptoms within each disorder.
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Cathechol-O-methyltransferase Val 158 Met polymorphism is associated with disruptive behavior disorders among children and adolescents with ADHD. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2012; 119:729-33. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-012-0766-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Liu L, Guan LL, Chen Y, Ji N, Li HM, Li ZH, Qian QJ, Yang L, Glatt SJ, Faraone SV, Wang YF. Association analyses of MAOA in Chinese Han subjects with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: family-based association test, case-control study, and quantitative traits of impulsivity. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2011; 156B:737-48. [PMID: 21761555 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.31217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) plays a critical role in the metabolism of monoamine neurotransmitters including serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and dopamine (DA). Genetic studies have found an association between MAOA and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), especially impulsivity. However, there has been inconsistency among studies which may be due to the complexity and heterogeneity of ADHD, including its sexual dimorphism and the presence of several subtypes. We conducted transmission disequilibrium tests (TDTs) in 1,253 trios and found no association between five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of MAOA with ADHD in general or in the predominantly inattentive (ADHD-I) or combined types (ADHD-C), but with the predominantly hyperactive/impulsivity type (ADHD-HI). The association with MAOA was restricted to males, especially males with ADHD-HI. Logistic regression analyses of data from 1,824 cases and 957 controls did not indicate any association. We used analysis of covariance to analyze the association between MAOA genotype with the "inhibit" factor of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) in 640 probands and performance on the Stroop test in 810 probands. Probands homozygous for risk alleles found in the TDT test had higher "inhibit" scores on the BRIEF scale which represents more severe impulsivity; this results also was restricted to males. No association was found with Stroop test performance. In conclusion, our results provide some evidence that MAOA may be associated with the ADHD-HI subtype and support the association between MAOA and impulsivity, which may be a potential endophenotype of ADHD. However, the results were strongly influenced by gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Archer T, Oscar-Berman M, Blum K. Epigenetics in Developmental Disorder: ADHD and Endophenotypes. JOURNAL OF GENETIC SYNDROMES & GENE THERAPY 2011; 2:1000104. [PMID: 22224195 PMCID: PMC3250517 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7412.1000104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneity in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with complex interactive operations of genetic and environmental factors, is expressed in a variety of disorder manifestations: severity, co-morbidities of symptoms, and the effects of genes on phenotypes. Neurodevelopmental influences of genomic imprinting have set the stage for the structural-physiological variations that modulate the cognitive, affective, and pathophysiological domains of ADHD. The relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors provide rapidly proliferating insights into the developmental trajectory of the condition, both structurally and functionally. Parent-of-origin effects seem to support the notion that genetic risks for disease process debut often interact with the social environment, i.e., the parental environment in infants and young children. The notion of endophenotypes, markers of an underlying liability to the disorder, may facilitate detection of genetic risks relative to a complex clinical disorder. Simple genetic association has proven insufficient to explain the spectrum of ADHD. At a primary level of analysis, the consideration of epigenetic regulation of brain signalling mechanisms, dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline is examined. Neurotrophic factors that participate in the neurogenesis, survival, and functional maintenance of brain systems, are involved in neuroplasticity alterations underlying brain disorders, and are implicated in the genetic predisposition to ADHD, but not obviously, nor in a simple or straightforward fashion. In the context of intervention, genetic linkage studies of ADHD pharmacological intervention have demonstrated that associations have fitted the "drug response phenotype," rather than the disorder diagnosis. Despite conflicting evidence for the existence, or not, of genetic associations between disorder diagnosis and genes regulating the structure and function of neurotransmitters and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), associations between symptoms-profiles endophenotypes and single nucleotide polymorphisms appear reassuring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor Archer
- Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Box 500, SE-40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marlene Oscar-Berman
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, and Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, and Boston VA Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida College of Medicine, and McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Banaschewski T, Becker K, Scherag S, Franke B, Coghill D. Molecular genetics of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: an overview. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2010; 19:237-57. [PMID: 20145962 PMCID: PMC2839490 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-010-0090-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 01/07/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As heritability is high in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), genetic factors must play a significant role in the development and course of this disorder. In recent years a large number of studies on different candidate genes for ADHD have been published, most have focused on genes involved in the dopaminergic neurotransmission system, such as DRD4, DRD5, DAT1/SLC6A3, DBH, DDC. Genes associated with the noradrenergic (such as NET1/SLC6A2, ADRA2A, ADRA2C) and serotonergic systems (such as 5-HTT/SLC6A4, HTR1B, HTR2A, TPH2) have also received considerable interest. Additional candidate genes related to neurotransmission and neuronal plasticity that have been studied less intensively include SNAP25, CHRNA4, NMDA, BDNF, NGF, NTF3, NTF4/5, GDNF. This review article provides an overview of these candidate gene studies, and summarizes findings from recently published genome-wide association studies (GWAS). GWAS is a relatively new tool that enables the identification of new ADHD genes in a hypothesis-free manner. Although these latter studies could be improved and need to be replicated they are starting to implicate processes like neuronal migration and cell adhesion and cell division as potentially important in the aetiology of ADHD and have suggested several new directions for future ADHD genetics studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.
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