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Kolter JF, Hildenbrand MF, Popp S, Nauroth S, Bankmann J, Rother L, Waider J, Deckert J, Asan E, Jakob PM, Lesch KP, Schmitt-Böhrer A. Serotonin transporter genotype modulates resting state and predator stress-induced amygdala perfusion in mice in a sex-dependent manner. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247311. [PMID: 33606835 PMCID: PMC7895400 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) is a key molecule of serotoninergic neurotransmission and target of many anxiolytics and antidepressants. In humans, 5-HTT gene variants resulting in lower expression levels are associated with behavioral traits of anxiety. Furthermore, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies reported increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) during resting state (RS) and amygdala hyperreactivity. 5-HTT deficient mice as an established animal model for anxiety disorders seem to be well suited for investigating amygdala (re-)activity in an fMRI study. We investigated wildtype (5-HTT+/+), heterozygous (5-HTT+/-), and homozygous 5-HTT-knockout mice (5-HTT-/-) of both sexes in an ultra-high-field 17.6 Tesla magnetic resonance scanner. CBF was measured with continuous arterial spin labeling during RS, stimulation state (SS; with odor of rats as aversive stimulus), and post-stimulation state (PS). Subsequently, post mortem c-Fos immunohistochemistry elucidated neural activation on cellular level. The results showed that in reaction to the aversive odor CBF in total brain and amygdala of all mice significantly increased. In male 5-HTT+/+ mice amygdala RS CBF levels were found to be significantly lower than in 5-HTT+/- mice. From RS to SS 5-HTT+/+ amygdala perfusion significantly increased compared to both 5-HTT+/- and 5-HTT-/- mice. Perfusion level changes of male mice correlated with the density of c-Fos-immunoreactive cells in the amygdaloid nuclei. In female mice the perfusion was not modulated by the 5-Htt-genotype, but by estrous cycle stages. We conclude that amygdala reactivity is modulated by the 5-Htt genotype in males. In females, gonadal hormones have an impact which might have obscured genotype effects. Furthermore, our results demonstrate experimental support for the tonic model of 5-HTTLPR function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jann F. Kolter
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Markus F. Hildenbrand
- Department of Magnetic Resonance and X-Ray Imaging, Fraunhofer Development Center X-Ray Technology, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Sandy Popp
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Nauroth
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Julian Bankmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Rother
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Waider
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Deckert
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Esther Asan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Peter M. Jakob
- Department of Experimental Physics 5, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Klaus-Peter Lesch
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Angelika Schmitt-Böhrer
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center of Mental Health, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
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2
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Sun X, Li C, Zhong X, Dong D, Ming Q, Gao Y, Xiong G, Cheng C, Zhao H, Wang X, Yao S. Influence of psychosocial stress on activation in human brain regions: moderation by the 5-HTTLPR genetic locus. Physiol Behav 2020; 220:112876. [PMID: 32194071 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.112876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Variants of the serotonin transporter linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) of the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 have been related with the onset of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Homozygotes for the short 5-HTTLPR variant, referred to as the SS genotype, have greater cortisol responses to experimentally induced psychosocial stress. In the current study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to compare regional brain activations across 5-HTTLPR genotypes in subjects performing the Montreal Imaging Stress Task (MIST). Subjects with an SS genotype had significant greater increases in cortisol concentrations after the task than subjects with at least one long 5-HTTLPR allele. Additionally, relative to L carriers, the SS group had greater activation in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex(dmPFC), dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, anterior insula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiang Sun
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Chuting Li
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Xue Zhong
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Daifeng Dong
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Qingsen Ming
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sochoow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yidian Gao
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Ge Xiong
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Chang Cheng
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Haofei Zhao
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Xiang Wang
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders
| | - Shuqiao Yao
- Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders.
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3
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Zhang N, Qin J, Yan J, Zhu Y, Xu Y, Zhu X, Ju S, Li Y. Increased ASL-CBF in the right amygdala predicts the first onset of depression in healthy young first-degree relatives of patients with major depression. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2020; 40:54-66. [PMID: 31272311 PMCID: PMC6928554 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x19861909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Healthy first-degree relatives of patients with major depression are at an elevated risk of developing depression, and regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) alterations are observed in patients with depression. Therefore, in a 33-month follow-up study, we used arterial spin labeling-magnetic resonance imaging (ASL-MRI) to investigate quantitative CBF before and after the diagnosis of depression in healthy young adults with and without first-degree relatives with major depression (FH + and FH-, respectively). In cross-sectional and longitudinal CBF comparisons, CBF in the right amygdala was increased or decreased. Additionally, a significant correlation was observed between the altered CBF in the right amygdala and the scores on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) in the FH + group. Furthermore, logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses showed that increased CBF in the right amygdala at baseline predicted the subsequent onset of depression in the FH + group. Our results suggest that among healthy young adults with a familial risk of depression, those who exhibit increased CBF in the amygdala are susceptible to developing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningning Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jiasheng Qin
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jinchuan Yan
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yan Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yuhao Xu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiaolan Zhu
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shenghong Ju
- Department of Radiology, Zhongda Affiliated Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuefeng Li
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Radiology, Zhongda Affiliated Hospital of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Holz NE, Zohsel K, Laucht M, Banaschewski T, Hohmann S, Brandeis D. Gene x environment interactions in conduct disorder: Implications for future treatments. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 91:239-258. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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5
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Fleurkens P, van Minnen A, Becker ES, van Oostrom I, Speckens A, Rinck M, Vrijsen JN. Automatic approach-avoidance tendencies as a candidate intermediate phenotype for depression: Associations with childhood trauma and the 5-HTTLPR transporter polymorphism. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193787. [PMID: 29547643 PMCID: PMC5856265 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression risk genes in combination with childhood events have been associated with biased processing as an intermediate phenotype for depression. The aim of the present conceptual replication study was to investigate the role of biased automatic approach-avoidance tendencies as a candidate intermediate phenotype for depression, in the context of genes (5-HTTLPR polymorphism) and childhood trauma. A naturalistic remitted depressed patients sample (N = 209) performed an Approach-Avoidance Task (AAT) with facial expressions (angry, sad, happy and neutral). Childhood trauma was assessed with a questionnaire. Genotype groups were created based on allele frequency: LaLa versus S/Lg-carriers. The latter is associated with depression risk. We found that remitted S/Lg-carriers who experienced childhood trauma automatically avoided sad facial expressions relatively more than LaLa homozygotes with childhood trauma. Remitted LaLa-carriers who had not experienced childhood trauma, avoided sad faces relatively more than LaLa homozygotes with childhood trauma. We did not find a main effect of childhood trauma, nor differential avoidance of any of the other facial expressions. Although tentative, the results suggest that automatic approach-avoidance tendencies for disorder-congruent materials may be a fitting intermediate phenotype for depression. The specific pattern of tendencies, and the relation to depression, may depend on the genetic risk profile and childhood trauma, but replication is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Fleurkens
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Agnes van Minnen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Psychotrauma Expertise Centrum (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Eni S. Becker
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Iris van Oostrom
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Speckens
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mike Rinck
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Janna N. Vrijsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Pro Persona: Institution for Integrated Mental Health Care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Liu X, Hildebrandt A, Recio G, Sommer W, Cai X, Wilhelm O. Individual Differences in the Speed of Facial Emotion Recognition Show Little Specificity but Are Strongly Related with General Mental Speed: Psychometric, Neural and Genetic Evidence. Front Behav Neurosci 2017; 11:149. [PMID: 28848411 PMCID: PMC5554373 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Facial identity and facial expression processing are crucial socio-emotional abilities but seem to show only limited psychometric uniqueness when the processing speed is considered in easy tasks. We applied a comprehensive measurement of processing speed and contrasted performance specificity in socio-emotional, social and non-social stimuli from an individual differences perspective. Performance in a multivariate task battery could be best modeled by a general speed factor and a first-order factor capturing some specific variance due to processing emotional facial expressions. We further tested equivalence of the relationships between speed factors and polymorphisms of dopamine and serotonin transporter genes. Results show that the speed factors are not only psychometrically equivalent but invariant in their relation with the Catechol-O-Methyl-Transferase (COMT) Val158Met polymorphism. However, the 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 serotonin polymorphism was related with the first-order factor of emotion perception speed, suggesting a specific genetic correlate of processing emotions. We further investigated the relationship between several components of event-related brain potentials with psychometric abilities, and tested emotion specific individual differences at the neurophysiological level. Results revealed swifter emotion perception abilities to go along with larger amplitudes of the P100 and the Early Posterior Negativity (EPN), when emotion processing was modeled on its own. However, after partialling out the shared variance of emotion perception speed with general processing speed-related abilities, brain-behavior relationships did not remain specific for emotion. Together, the present results suggest that speed abilities are strongly interrelated but show some specificity for emotion processing speed at the psychometric level. At both genetic and neurophysiological levels, emotion specificity depended on whether general cognition is taken into account or not. These findings keenly suggest that general speed abilities should be taken into account when the study of emotion recognition abilities is targeted in its specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Institute of Electronics, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,Department of Psychology, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität GreifswaldGreifswald, Germany
| | - Andrea Hildebrandt
- Department of Psychology, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität GreifswaldGreifswald, Germany
| | - Guillermo Recio
- Differential Psychology and Psychological Assessment, Universität HamburgHamburg, Germany
| | - Werner Sommer
- Department of Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlin, Germany
| | - Xinxia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Institute of Electronics, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Oliver Wilhelm
- Institute of Psychology and Education, Univeristy of UlmUlm, Germany
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7
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Luo Q, Holroyd T, Mitchell D, Yu H, Cheng X, Hodgkinson C, Chen G, McCaffrey D, Goldman D, Blair RJ. Heightened amygdala responsiveness in s-carriers of 5-HTTLPR genetic polymorphism reflects enhanced cortical rather than subcortical inputs: An MEG study. Hum Brain Mapp 2017; 38:4313-4321. [PMID: 28580622 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.23616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Short allele carriers (S-carriers) of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) show an elevated amygdala response to emotional stimuli relative to long allele carriers (LL-homozygous). However, whether this reflects increased responsiveness of the amygdala generally or interactions between the amygdala and the specific input systems remains unknown. It is argued that the amygdala receives input via a quick subcortical and a slower cortical pathway. If the elevated amygdala response in S-carriers reflects generally increased amygdala responding, then group differences in amygdala should be seen across the amygdala response time course. However, if the difference is a secondary consequence of enhanced amygdala-cortical interactions, then group differences might only be present later in the amygdala response. Using magnetoencephalography (MEG), we found an enhanced amygdala response to fearful expressions starting 40-50 ms poststimulus. However, group differences in the amygdala were only seen 190-200 ms poststimulus, preceded by increased superior temporal sulcus (STS) responses in S-carriers from 130 to 140 ms poststimulus. An enhanced amygdala response to angry expressions started 260-270 ms poststimulus with group differences in the amygdala starting at 160-170 ms poststimulus onset, preceded by increased STS responses in S-carriers from 150 to 160 ms poststimulus. These suggest that enhanced amygdala responses in S-carriers might reflect enhanced STS-amygdala connectivity in S-carriers. Hum Brain Mapp 38:4313-4321, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Luo
- Unit on Affective Cognitive Neuroscience, NIMH/NIMH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tom Holroyd
- MEG Core Facility, NIMH/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Derek Mitchell
- Departments of Psychiatry and Anatomy & Cell Biology, Brain and Mind Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Henry Yu
- Unit on Affective Cognitive Neuroscience, NIMH/NIMH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Xi Cheng
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biosciences Branch, NIAID/NIH, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Gang Chen
- Scientific and Statistical Computing Core, NIMH/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daniel McCaffrey
- Unit on Affective Cognitive Neuroscience, NIMH/NIMH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David Goldman
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, NIAAA/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - R James Blair
- Unit on Affective Cognitive Neuroscience, NIMH/NIMH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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8
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Raab K, Kirsch P, Mier D. Understanding the impact of 5-HTTLPR, antidepressants, and acute tryptophan depletion on brain activation during facial emotion processing: A review of the imaging literature. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 71:176-197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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9
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Hildebrandt A, Kiy A, Reuter M, Sommer W, Wilhelm O. Face and emotion expression processing and the serotonin transporter polymorphism 5-HTTLPR/rs22531. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2016; 15:453-64. [PMID: 27079569 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 03/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Face cognition, including face identity and facial expression processing, is a crucial component of socio-emotional abilities, characterizing humans as highest developed social beings. However, for these trait domains molecular genetic studies investigating gene-behavior associations based on well-founded phenotype definitions are still rare. We examined the relationship between 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 polymorphisms - related to serotonin-reuptake - and the ability to perceive and recognize faces and emotional expressions in human faces. For this aim we conducted structural equation modeling on data from 230 young adults, obtained by using a comprehensive, multivariate task battery with maximal effort tasks. By additionally modeling fluid intelligence and immediate and delayed memory factors, we aimed to address the discriminant relationships of the 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 polymorphisms with socio-emotional abilities. We found a robust association between the 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 polymorphism and facial emotion perception. Carriers of two long (L) alleles outperformed carriers of one or two S alleles. Weaker associations were present for face identity perception and memory for emotional facial expressions. There was no association between the 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 polymorphism and non-social abilities, demonstrating discriminant validity of the relationships. We discuss the implications and possible neural mechanisms underlying these novel findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Hildebrandt
- Department of Psychology, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald
| | - A Kiy
- Department of Psychology, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald
| | - M Reuter
- Department of Psychology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn.,Center for Economics & Neuroscience (CENs), Laboratory of Neurogenetics, University of Bonn
| | - W Sommer
- Department of Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
| | - O Wilhelm
- Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Germany
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Mills M, Wieda O, Stoltenberg SF, Dodd MD. Emotion moderates the association between HTR2A (rs6313) genotype and antisaccade latency. Exp Brain Res 2016; 234:2653-65. [PMID: 27161551 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-016-4669-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The serotonin system is heavily involved in cognitive and emotional control processes. Previous work has typically investigated this system's role in control processes separately for cognitive and emotional domains, yet it has become clear the two are linked. The present study, therefore, examined whether variation in a serotonin receptor gene (HTR2A, rs6313) moderated effects of emotion on inhibitory control. An emotional antisaccade task was used in which participants looked toward (prosaccade) or away (antisaccade) from a target presented to the left or right of a happy, angry, or neutral face. Overall, antisaccade latencies were slower for rs6313 C allele homozygotes than T allele carriers, with no effect of genotype on prosaccade latencies. Thus, C allele homozygotes showed relatively weak inhibitory control but intact reflexive control. Importantly, the emotional stimulus was either present during target presentation (overlap trials) or absent (gap trials). The gap effect (slowed latency in overlap versus gap trials) in antisaccade trials was larger with angry versus neutral faces in C allele homozygotes. This impairing effect of negative valence on inhibitory control was larger in C allele homozygotes than T allele carriers, suggesting that angry faces disrupted/competed with the control processes needed to generate an antisaccade to a greater degree in these individuals. The genotype difference in the negative valence effect on antisaccade latency was attenuated when trial N-1 was an antisaccade, indicating top-down regulation of emotional influence. This effect was reduced in C/C versus T/_ individuals, suggesting a weaker capacity to downregulate emotional processing of task-irrelevant stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Mills
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
| | - Olivia Wieda
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Scott F Stoltenberg
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Michael D Dodd
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 238 Burnett Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
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11
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Faja S, Dawson G, Aylward E, Wijsman EM, Webb SJ. Early event-related potentials to emotional faces differ for adults with autism spectrum disorder and by serotonin transporter genotype. Clin Neurophysiol 2016; 127:2436-47. [PMID: 27178863 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2016.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test differences in neural sensitivity to facial expressions, including expressions with open versus closed mouths, exhibited by (1) adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to neurotypical adults, and by (2) short versus long serotonin transporter allele (SLC6A4) carriers. METHODS Event related potentials (ERPs) to happy, fearful, and neutral expressions were collected from neurotypical adults (n=25) and adults with ASD (n=27)-of whom 32 had short and 13 had homozygous long SLC6A4 alleles. RESULTS In the neurotypical group, we confirmed that the N170, VPP and EPN, but not the P1, were influenced by emotional expressions, and determined the EPN was the earliest component modulated by open mouth. Compared to the neurotypical group, individuals with ASD exhibited differences in EPN amplitude in response to open versus closed mouths and in hemispheric distribution. Across groups, short serotonin transporter allele carriers had reduced P1 amplitude compared to long allele carriers. CONCLUSIONS Individuals with ASD exhibited a different pattern of neural response when encoding and recognizing facial expressions at the EPN component. Across groups, SLC6A4 allele type modulated early sensory attention at the P1. SIGNIFICANCE These results provide insight into the nature of early responses to emotional information according to genetic variation and clinical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Faja
- University of Washington, Department of Psychology, Box 351525, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Geraldine Dawson
- University of Washington, Department of Psychology, Box 351525, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Box 356560, Room BB1644, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Elizabeth Aylward
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Ellen M Wijsman
- University of Washington, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Genetics, Box 356420, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; University of Washington, Department of Biostatistics, Box 357232, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sara Jane Webb
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Box 356560, Room BB1644, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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12
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Schneck N, Miller JM, Delorenzo C, Kikuchi T, Sublette ME, Oquendo MA, Mann JJ, Parsey RV. Relationship of the serotonin transporter gene promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) genotype and serotonin transporter binding to neural processing of negative emotional stimuli. J Affect Disord 2016; 190:494-498. [PMID: 26561939 PMCID: PMC5021308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2015.10.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lower-expressing (S') alleles of the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) are linked to mood and anxiety related psychopathology. However, the specific neural mechanism through which these alleles may influence emotional and cognitive processing remains unknown. We examined the relationship between both 5-HTTLPR genotype and in vivo 5-HTT binding quantified via PET with amygdala reactivity to emotionally negative stimuli. We hypothesized that 5-HTT binding in both raphe nuclei (RN) and amygdala would be inversely correlated with amygdala reactivity, and that number of S' alleles would correlate positively with amygdala reactivity. METHODS In medication-free patients with current major depressive disorder (MDD; N=21), we determined 5-HTTLPR genotype, employed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine amygdala responses to negative emotional stimuli, and used positron emission tomography with [(11)C]DASB to examine 5-HTT binding. RESULTS [(11)C]DASB binding in RN and amygdala was inversely correlated with amygdala response to negative stimuli. 5-HTTLPR S' alleles were not associated with amygdala response to negative emotional stimuli. LIMITATIONS Primary limitations are small sample size and lack of control group. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with findings in healthy volunteers, 5-HTT binding is associated with amygdala reactivity to emotional stimuli in MDD. 5-HTT binding may be a stronger predictor of emotional processing in MDD as compared with 5-HTTLPR genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam Schneck
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Jeffrey M. Miller
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Christine Delorenzo
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Toshiaki Kikuchi
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - M. Elizabeth Sublette
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maria A. Oquendo
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - J. John Mann
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ramin V. Parsey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, United States
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Hawn SE, Overstreet C, Stewart KE, Amstadter AB. Recent advances in the genetics of emotion regulation: a review. Curr Opin Psychol 2015; 3:108-116. [PMID: 27588302 PMCID: PMC5004926 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2014.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent attention has been given to the role of emotion regulation in the development and maintenance of psychopathology, and the psychosocial literature on emotion regulation has been growing rapidly over the past decade. However, knowledge about the genetic etiology of emotion regulation facets has been slower to develop. The present paper aims to briefly introduce the various constructs that fall under the umbrella of emotion regulation; provide an overview of behavioral genetic methods; summarize the empirical studies of emotion regulation twin studies; introduce molecular genetic methods; review the recent molecular genetic studies on emotion regulation; and provide future directions for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sage E Hawn
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Cassie Overstreet
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Karen E Stewart
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Ananda B Amstadter
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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14
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A potential ethnic difference in the association between 5-HTTLPR polymorphisms and the brain default mode network. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11434-014-0185-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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15
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Papousek I, Reiser EM, Schulter G, Fink A, Holmes EA, Niederstätter H, Nagl S, Parson W, Weiss EM. Serotonin transporter genotype (5-HTTLPR) and electrocortical responses indicating the sensitivity to negative emotional cues. Emotion 2013; 13:1173-81. [PMID: 24040881 PMCID: PMC3948098 DOI: 10.1037/a0033997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Growing literature indicates that emotional reactivity and regulation are strongly linked to genetic modulation of serotonergic neurotransmission. However, until now, most studies have focused on the relationship between genotypic markers, in particular the serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR), and neural structures using MRI. The current study aimed to bridge the gap between the relevant MRI literature on the effects of the 5-HTTLPR genotype and the research tradition focusing on transient lateralized changes of electrocortical activity in the prefrontal cortex using electroencephalography (EEG). Lateral shifts of EEG alpha asymmetry in response to an aversive film consisting of scenes of real injury and death were assessed in healthy participants (n = 165). To evaluate the specificity of the 5-HTTLPR effect, participants were also tested for the COMT Val158Met polymorphism which is linked to dopamine inactivation. While viewing the film, individuals homozygous for the 5-HTTLPR short allele displayed a clear lateral shift of dorsolateral frontal activity to the right, which was virtually absent in participants carrying the long allele. The heightened electrocortical response to the aversive stimulation and its direction indicates a greater propensity of s/s homozygotes to experience withdrawal oriented affect in response to negative emotion cues in the environment. Moreover, together with previous research the findings support the notion of a link between the serotonergic system and self-regulation related to avoidance motivation, and a link between the dopaminergic system and self-regulation related to approach motivation.
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16
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Yildirim BO, Derksen JJ. Systematic review, structural analysis, and new theoretical perspectives on the role of serotonin and associated genes in the etiology of psychopathy and sociopathy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2013; 37:1254-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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17
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El-Hage W, Zelaya F, Radua J, Gohier B, Alsop D, Phillips M, Surguladze S. Resting-state cerebral blood flow in amygdala is modulated by sex and serotonin transporter genotype. Neuroimage 2013; 76:90-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2013.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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18
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Metzger CD, Walter M, Graf H, Abler B. SSRI-related modulation of sexual functioning is predicted by pre-treatment resting state functional connectivity in healthy men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2013; 42:935-947. [PMID: 23771550 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-013-0103-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Revised: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction related to treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is a common reason for discontinuation of otherwise effective antidepressant treatment regimens. Thus, identification of subjects at risk for this side effect remains a crucial challenge. After demonstrating task-related neural correlates of impaired sexual functioning under treatment with the SSRI paroxetine (Abler et al., 2011), we studied (1) if resting state brain function before treatment predicts subsequent development of treatment-related modulation of sexual function, and (2) which neural circuits relate to different aspects of the impairment. Effects of paroxetine and bupropion administration over 1 week on subjective sexual functioning were investigated in 17 healthy male volunteers in a placebo-controlled, randomized cross-over design using the Massachusetts General Hospital Sexual Function Questionnaire. Data from a 10 min eyes-closed resting state scan were used to analyze functional connectivity under placebo in previously identified brain regions, focussing on the sublenticular extended amygdala (SLEA), dopaminergic midbrain, and anterior cingulate cortex. Resting state functional connectivities of the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC), midbrain, and insula to the SLEA sufficiently predicted the development of subjective SSRI-related decreased sexual functioning and distinguished vulnerable from resilient subjects. Furthermore, connectivity with the midbrain particularly predicted orgasm-related deficits, while connectivity with pgACC predicted sexual satisfaction. Linking SSRI-related subjective sexual functioning to pre-treatment resting state connectivities in cortico-subcortical network of sexual processing, we demonstrated the potential of novel, non-invasive and passive brain imaging techniques to guide therapeutic decisions and adjust treatment protocols in psychiatric disorders and sexual medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coraline D Metzger
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Centre for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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19
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Murphy SE, Norbury R, Godlewska BR, Cowen PJ, Mannie ZM, Harmer CJ, Munafò MR. The effect of the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) on amygdala function: a meta-analysis. Mol Psychiatry 2013; 18:512-20. [PMID: 22488255 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2012.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Revised: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 01/30/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The 5-HTTLPR polymorphism has been widely regarded as a potential genetic risk factor for affective disorders. Consistent with this, this polymorphism has been associated with altered amygdala responses at rest and in response to aversive stimuli. However, the strength of this association remains uncertain. We sought to synthesize existing data on the association between the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and amygdala activation and ascertain the strength of evidence for this association. Meta-analytic techniques were applied to data from relevant published studies and unpublished data sets to obtain an estimate of the likely magnitude of effect of any association. The large number of studies allowed us to apply a formal test of publication bias, as well as explore the impact of various study-level characteristics on the magnitude of the observed effect size. Our meta-analysis indicated that there is a statistically significant but small effect of 5-HTTLPR on left and right amygdala activity. However, there was considerable between-study heterogeneity, which could not be fully accounted for by the study design and sample characteristics that we investigated. In addition, there was evidence of excess statistical significance among published studies. These findings indicate that the association between the 5-HTTLPR and amygdala activation is smaller than originally thought, and that the majority of previous studies have been considerably under powered to reliably demonstrate an effect of this size.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Murphy
- Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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20
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Bogdan R, Hyde LW, Hariri AR. A neurogenetics approach to understanding individual differences in brain, behavior, and risk for psychopathology. Mol Psychiatry 2013; 18:288-99. [PMID: 22614291 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2012.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Neurogenetics research has begun to advance our understanding of how genetic variation gives rise to individual differences in brain function, which, in turn, shapes behavior and risk for psychopathology. Despite these advancements, neurogenetics research is currently confronted by three major challenges: (1) conducting research on individual variables with small effects, (2) absence of detailed mechanisms, and (3) a need to translate findings toward greater clinical relevance. In this review, we showcase techniques and developments that address these challenges and highlight the benefits of a neurogenetics approach to understanding brain, behavior and psychopathology. To address the challenge of small effects, we explore approaches including incorporating the environment, modeling epistatic relationships and using multilocus profiles. To address the challenge of mechanism, we explore how non-human animal research, epigenetics research and genome-wide association studies can inform our mechanistic understanding of behaviorally relevant brain function. Finally, to address the challenge of clinical relevance, we examine how neurogenetics research can identify novel therapeutic targets and for whom treatments work best. By addressing these challenges, neurogenetics research is poised to exponentially increase our understanding of how genetic variation interacts with the environment to shape the brain, behavior and risk for psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bogdan
- Laboratory of NeuroGenetics, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA.
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21
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Booij L, Wang D, Lévesque ML, Tremblay RE, Szyf M. Looking beyond the DNA sequence: the relevance of DNA methylation processes for the stress-diathesis model of depression. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2013; 368:20120251. [PMID: 23440465 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2012.0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and serotonergic (5-HT) system are known to be intertwined with mood. Alterations in these systems are often associated with depression. However, neither are sufficient to cause depression in and of themselves. It is now becoming increasingly clear that the environment plays a crucial role, particularly, the perinatal environment. In this review, we posit that early environmental stress triggers a series of epigenetic mechanisms that adapt the genome and programme the HPA axis and 5-HT system for survival in a harsh environment. We focus on DNA methylation as it is the most stable epigenetic mark. Given that DNA methylation patterns are in large part set within the perinatal period, long-term gene expression programming by DNA methylation is especially vulnerable to environmental insults during this period. We discuss specific examples of genes in the 5-HT system (serotonin transporter) and HPA axis (glucocorticoid receptor and arginine vasopressin enhancer) whose DNA methylation state is associated with early life experience and may potentially lead to depression vulnerability. We conclude with a discussion on the relevance of studying epigenetic mechanisms in peripheral tissue as a proxy for those occurring in the human brain and suggest avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Booij
- Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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22
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Long H, Liu B, Hou B, Wang C, Li J, Qin W, Wang D, Zhou Y, Kendrick KM, Yu C, Jiang T. The long rather than the short allele of 5-HTTLPR predisposes Han Chinese to anxiety and reduced connectivity between prefrontal cortex and amygdala. Neurosci Bull 2013; 29:4-15. [PMID: 23319313 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-013-1299-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The short allele of the serotonin-transporter gene is associated with higher risk for anxiety and depression in Caucasians, but this association is still unclear in Asians. Here, we addressed this issue using behavioral and multi-modal MRI approaches in a large group of healthy Han Chinese participants (n = 233). In contrast to findings in Caucasians, we found that long-allele (L) carriers had higher anxiety scores. In another group (n = 64) experiencing significant levels of depression or anxiety, the L-allele frequency was also significantly higher. In healthy participants, L-carriers had reduced functional and anatomical connectivity between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex (PFC), which was correlated with anxiety or depression scores. Our findings demonstrated that in Chinese Han participants, in contrast to Caucasians, the L-allele confers vulnerability to anxiety or depression and weakens top-down emotional control between the PFC and amygdala. Therefore, ethnic background should be taken into account in generelated studies and their potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Long
- LIAMA Center for Computational Medicine, National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
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23
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Walsh ND, Dalgleish T, Dunn VJ, Abbott R, St Clair MC, Owens M, Fairchild G, Kerslake WS, Hiscox LV, Passamonti L, Ewbank M, Ban M, Calder AJ, Goodyer IM. 5-HTTLPR-environment interplay and its effects on neural reactivity in adolescents. Neuroimage 2012; 63:1670-80. [PMID: 23034517 PMCID: PMC3480648 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2012.07.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is not known how 5-HTTLPR genotype × childhood adversity (CA) interactions that are associated with an increased risk for affective disorders in population studies operate at the neural systems level. We hypothesized that healthy adolescents at increased genetic and environmental risk for developing mood disorders (depression and anxiety) would demonstrate increased amygdala reactivity to emotional stimuli compared to those with only one such risk factor or those with none. Participants (n = 67) were classified into one of 4 groups dependent on being homozygous for the long or short alleles within the serotonin-transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) of the SLC6A4 gene and exposure to CA in the first 11 years of life (present or absent). A functional magnetic resonance imaging investigation was undertaken which involved viewing emotionally-salient face stimuli. In addition, we assessed the role of other variables hypothesized to influence amygdala reactivity, namely recent negative life-events (RNLE) assessed at ages 14 and 17, current anxiety symptoms and psychiatric history. We replicated prior findings demonstrating moderation by gene variants in 5-HTTLPR, but found no support for an effect of CA on amygdala reactivity. We also found a significant effect of RNLE aged 17 with amygdala reactivity demonstrating additive, but not interactive effects with 5-HTTLPR. A whole-brain analysis found a 5-HTTLPR × CA interaction in the lingual gyrus whereby CA appears to differentially modify neural reactivity depending on genotype. These results demonstrate that two different forms of environmental adversities interplay with 5-HTTLPR and thereby differentially impact amygdala and cortical reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas D Walsh
- Developmental and Life-course Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 8AD, UK.
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24
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Alexander N, Klucken T, Koppe G, Osinsky R, Walter B, Vaitl D, Sammer G, Stark R, Hennig J. Interaction of the serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region and environmental adversity: increased amygdala-hypothalamus connectivity as a potential mechanism linking neural and endocrine hyperreactivity. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 72:49-56. [PMID: 22418015 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2012.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Revised: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 01/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene by environment (G×E) interaction between genetic variation in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region [5-HTTLPR]) and stressful life events (SLEs) has been extensively studied in the context of depression. Recent findings suggest increased neural and endocrine stress sensitivity as a possible mechanism conveying elevated vulnerability to psychopathology. Furthermore, these G×E mediated alterations very likely reflect interrelated biological processes. METHODS In the present functional magnetic resonance imaging study, amygdala reactivity to fearful stimuli was assessed in healthy male adults (n = 44), who were previously found to differ with regard to endocrine stress reactivity as a function of 5-HTTLPR × SLEs. Furthermore, functional connectivity between the amygdala and the hypothalamus was measured as a potential mechanism linking elevated neural and endocrine responses during stressful/threatening situations. The study sample was carefully preselected regarding 5-HTTLPR genotype and SLEs. RESULTS We report significant G×E interaction on neural response patterns and functional amygdala-hypothalamus connectivity. Specifically, homozygous carriers of the 5-HTTLPR S' allele with a history of SLEs (S'S'/high SLEs group) displayed elevated bilateral amygdala activation in response to fearful faces. Within the same sample, a comparable G×E interaction effect has previously been demonstrated regarding increased cortisol reactivity, indicating a cross-validation of heightened biological stress sensitivity. Furthermore, S'S'/high SLEs subjects were characterized by an increased functional coupling between the right amygdala and the hypothalamus, thus indicating a potential link between neural and endocrine hyperreactivity. CONCLUSIONS The present findings contribute to the ongoing debate on 5-HTTLPR × SLEs interaction and are discussed with respect to clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Alexander
- Department of Biological Psychology, Technische Universität, Dresden, Germany.
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25
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Stoltenberg SF, Anderson C, Nag P, Anagnopoulos C. Association between the serotonin transporter triallelic genotype and eating problems is moderated by the experience of childhood trauma in women. Int J Eat Disord 2012; 45:492-500. [PMID: 22271509 PMCID: PMC3397386 DOI: 10.1002/eat.20976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated a potential interaction between the triallelic polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) promoter and the experience of childhood trauma on the number of problem eating behaviors. METHOD The study sample was comprised of 439 (64.7% female) Caucasian college students (mean age = 22.49, SD = 6.12). Participants completed questionnaires that assessed eating problems and experience of trauma in childhood (ages 0-12) and donated cheek cells for 5-HTTLPR and rs25531 genotyping. RESULTS Women carrying a lower expressing allele (i.e., L(G) or S) who were exposed to higher levels of childhood trauma reported significantly higher mean numbers of eating problems (gender × genotype × trauma interaction, p = .006). DISCUSSION These results are consistent with findings that the lower expressing alleles of the SLC6A4 promoter are associated with increased sensitivity to the negative impact of childhood stressors on adult behavioral outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott F. Stoltenberg
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska
,Correspondence to: Scott F. Stoltenberg, 238 Burnett Hall, PO Box 880308, Lincoln, NE, 68588-0308;
| | - Cynthia Anderson
- Department of Biology, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota
| | - Parthasarathi Nag
- Department of Mathematics, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota
| | - Cheryl Anagnopoulos
- Department of Psychology, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota
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26
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Abstract
The human serotonin transporter (SERT) gene possesses a 43-base pair (bp) insertion-deletion promoter polymorphism, the h5-HTTLPR. Genotype at this locus correlates with variation in anxiety-related personality traits and risk for major depressive disorder in many studies. Yet, the complex effects of the h5-HTTLPR, in combination with closely associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), continue to be debated. Moreover, although SERT is of high clinical significance, transporter function in vivo remains difficult to assess. Rhesus express a promoter polymorphism related to the h5-HTTLPR. The rh5-HTTLPR has been linked to differences in stress-related behavior and cognitive flexibility, although allelic variations in serotonin uptake have not been investigated. We studied the serotonin system as it relates to the 5-HTTLPR in rhesus peripheral blood cells. Sequencing of the rh5-HTTLPR revealed a 23-bp insertion, which is somewhat longer than originally reported. Consistent with previous reports, no SNPs in the rh5-HTTLPR and surrounding genomic regions were detected in the individuals studied. Reductions in serotonin uptake rates, cell surface SERT binding, and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid/serotonin ratios, but not SERT mRNA levels, were associated with the rh5-HTTLPR short allele. Thus, serotonin uptake rates are differentiable with respect to the 5-HTTLPR in an easily accessible native peripheral tissue. In light of these findings, we foresee that primary blood cells, in combination with high sensitivity functional measurements enabled by chronoamperometry, will be important for investigating alterations in serotonin uptake associated with genetic variability and antidepressant responsiveness in humans.
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Interaction of catechol O-methyltransferase and serotonin transporter genes modulates effective connectivity in a facial emotion-processing circuitry. Transl Psychiatry 2012; 2:e70. [PMID: 22832732 PMCID: PMC3309546 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2011.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging genetic studies showed exaggerated blood oxygenation level-dependent response in limbic structures in carriers of low activity alleles of serotonin transporter-linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) as well as catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT) genes. This was suggested to underlie the vulnerability to mood disorders. To better understand the mechanisms of vulnerability, it is important to investigate the genetic modulation of frontal-limbic connectivity that underlies emotional regulation and control. In this study, we have examined the interaction of 5-HTTLPR and COMT genetic markers on effective connectivity within neural circuitry for emotional facial expressions. A total of 91 healthy Caucasian adults underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging experiments with a task presenting dynamic emotional facial expressions of fear, sadness, happiness and anger. The effective connectivity within the facial processing circuitry was assessed with Granger causality method. We have demonstrated that in fear processing condition, an interaction between 5-HTTLPR (S) and COMT (met) low activity alleles was associated with reduced reciprocal connectivity within the circuitry including bilateral fusiform/inferior occipital regions, right superior temporal gyrus/superior temporal sulcus, bilateral inferior/middle prefrontal cortex and right amygdala. We suggest that the epistatic effect of reduced effective connectivity may underlie an inefficient emotion regulation that places these individuals at greater risk for depressive disorders.
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28
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Foland-Ross LC, Hardin MG, Gotlib IH. Neurobiological markers of familial risk for depression. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2012; 14:181-206. [PMID: 22573472 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2012_213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Major depression is associated with a wide range of neurobiological disturbances, including anomalies in the structure and function of cortical and subcortical gray matter and dysregulation of the HPA axis. In this chapter, we review research demonstrating that many of these abnormalities are also present in never-depressed offspring of adults with recurrent depression and discuss how such findings might reflect dysfunctional neuroregulatory systems that precede the onset of this disorder. We also briefly discuss candidate genes and environmental factors that have been posited to be directly involved in the transmission of neural and HPA-axis abnormalities from depressed parents to their offspring, and we review how, by obtaining a better understanding of the neurobiological markers of depression risk, we can facilitate the development of targeted strategies for the prevention and treatment of major depression.
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Passamonti L, Crockett MJ, Apergis-Schoute AM, Clark L, Rowe JB, Calder AJ, Robbins TW. Effects of acute tryptophan depletion on prefrontal-amygdala connectivity while viewing facial signals of aggression. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 71:36-43. [PMID: 21920502 PMCID: PMC3368260 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2011.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Revised: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduced levels of serotonin (5-HT) within prefrontal cortex (PFC)-amygdala circuits have long been implicated in impulsive aggression. However, whether lowering 5-HT alters the dynamic interplay between the PFC and the amygdala has not been directly tested in humans. It is known that manipulating 5-HT via acute tryptophan depletion (ATD) causes variable effects on brain responses to a variety of emotional stimuli, but it remains unclear whether ATD affects functional connectivity in neural networks involved in processing social signals of aggression (e.g., angry faces). METHODS Thirty healthy individuals were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled ATD study. On each treatment, brain responses to angry, sad, and neutral faces were measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging. Two methods (psycho-physiological-interaction in a general linear model and dynamic causal modeling) were used to assess the impact of ATD on the functional connectivity between PFC and amygdala. RESULTS Data from 19 subjects were available for the final analyses. A whole-brain psycho-physiological-interaction in a general linear model showed that ATD significantly modulated the connectivity between the amygdala and two PFC regions (ventral anterior cingulate cortex and ventrolateral PFC) when processing angry vs. neutral and angry vs. sad but not sad vs. neutral faces. Dynamic causal modeling corroborated and extended these findings by showing that 5-HT depletion reduced the influence of processing angry vs. neutral faces on circuits within PFC and on PFC-amygdala pathways. CONCLUSIONS We provide strong support for neurobiological accounts positing that 5-HT significantly influences PFC-amygdala circuits implicated in aggression and other affective behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Passamonti
- Unità di Ricerca Neuroimmagini, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Catanzaro, Italy.
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