1
|
Tironi M, Charpentier Mora S, Cavanna D, Borelli JL, Bizzi F. Physiological Factors Linking Insecure Attachment to Psychopathology: A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1477. [PMID: 34827476 PMCID: PMC8615918 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although many studies have documented associations between insecure attachment and psychopathology, attachment may not confer risk for psychopathology independently, but rather through its interaction with emotional, social, and biological factors. Understanding the variables through which attachment may lead to psychopathology is therefore important. Within this domain of research, the role of physiological factors is poorly investigated. What are the relevant domains and why, when, or for whom do they influence mental disorders relating to attachment? The current systematic review aims to answer these questions. Results reveal that physiological indices of emotional regulation play a role in explaining and/or determining the relationship between attachment and psychopathology. Specifically: (1) combined with insecure attachment, higher skin conductance level (SCL), lower cardiac slowing, and respiratory sinus arrhythmia modulation (RSA) contribute to different psychopathological indicators and behavioral/psychological dysfunctions, although the latter predicts a contradictory pattern of findings; (2) insecure-avoidant attachment is more consistently linked with stress and emotional dysregulation when combined with RSA, while anxious attachment confers risk of depressive symptoms when combined with SCL. We concluded our discussion of the results of seven studies by outlining a plan to move the field forward. We discuss the quality of the assessment, methodological limitations, and future directions, highlighting the need to extend the research to clinical samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tironi
- Department of Educational Science, University of Genoa, Corso Podestà 2, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (M.T.); (S.C.M.); (D.C.)
| | - Simone Charpentier Mora
- Department of Educational Science, University of Genoa, Corso Podestà 2, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (M.T.); (S.C.M.); (D.C.)
| | - Donatella Cavanna
- Department of Educational Science, University of Genoa, Corso Podestà 2, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (M.T.); (S.C.M.); (D.C.)
| | - Jessica L. Borelli
- Department of Psychology and Social Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA;
| | - Fabiola Bizzi
- Department of Educational Science, University of Genoa, Corso Podestà 2, 16128 Genoa, Italy; (M.T.); (S.C.M.); (D.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Crawford H, Scerif G, Wilde L, Beggs A, Stockton J, Sandhu P, Shelley L, Oliver C, McCleery J. Genetic modifiers in rare disorders: the case of fragile X syndrome. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 29:173-183. [PMID: 32862204 PMCID: PMC7852869 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-00711-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods employed in genome-wide association studies are not feasible ways to explore genotype-phenotype associations in rare disorders due to limited statistical power. An alternative approach is to examine relationships among specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), selected a priori, and behavioural characteristics. Here, we adopt this strategy to examine relationships between three SNPs (5-HTTLPR, MAOA, COMT) and specific clinically-relevant behaviours that are phenotypic of fragile X syndrome (FXS) but vary in severity and frequency across individuals. Sixty-four males with FXS participated in the current study. Data from standardised informant measures of challenging behaviour (defined as physical aggression, property destruction, stereotyped behaviour, and self-injury), autism symptomatology, attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder characteristics, repetitive behaviour and mood/interest and pleasure were compared between each SNP genotype. No association was observed between behavioural characteristics and either 5-HTTLPR (serotonin) or MAOA (monoamine oxidase) genotypes. However, compared to the COMT (dopamine) AG and GG genotypes, the AA genotype was associated with greater interest and pleasure in the environment, and with reduced risk for property destruction, stereotyped behaviour and compulsive behaviour. The results suggest that common genetic variation in the COMT genotype affecting dopamine levels in the brain may contribute to the variability of challenging and repetitive behaviours and interest and pleasure in this population. This study identifies a role for additional genetic risk in understanding the neural and genetic mechanisms contributing to phenotypic variability in neurodevelopmental disorders, and highlights the merit of investigating SNPs that are selected a priori on a theoretical basis in rare populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Crawford
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK.
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK.
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Gaia Scerif
- Attention, Brain and Cognitive Development Group, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lucy Wilde
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Andrew Beggs
- Surgical Research Laboratory, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joanne Stockton
- Surgical Research Laboratory, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Pria Sandhu
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Lauren Shelley
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joseph McCleery
- Department of Psychology, Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jiménez KM, Pereira-Morales AJ, Adan A, Lopez-Leon S, Forero DA. Anxiety-related Endophenotypes and Hazardous Alcohol Use in Young Adults are Associated with a Functional Polymorphism in the SLC6A4 Gene. Open Neurol J 2019. [DOI: 10.2174/1874205x01913010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
A functional polymorphism (5-HTTLPR, rs4795541) in the serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) gene has been shown as an important candidate for several psychiatric and behavioral traits.
Objective:
The objective of this study was to examine the possible interaction of this polymorphism with physical neglect in childhood on the presentation of anxiety traits and hazardous alcohol consumption in young Colombian subjects.
Methods:
272 young adults (mean age: 21.3 years) were evaluated with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, the Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale, the Big Five Inventory, the Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale, the Alcohol, Smoking, Substance Involvement Screening Test and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. Genotyping for the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism was carried out using conventional PCR. A linear regression model, corrected by age and gender, was used.
Results:
We found that individuals with the L/L genotype showed higher scores on physical neglect (p=0.0047), anxiety symptoms (p=0.028), neuroticism (p=0.019) and perceived stress (p=0.035). L/L genotype was a risk factor for hazardous alcohol use in young adults (OR=3.06, p=0.0003). No GxE interactions were observed in our data.
Conclusion:
Our results provide novel evidence for the role of a functional polymorphism in the SLC6A4 gene on the relationship of childhood trauma, anxiety-related traits and risky consumption of alcohol.
Collapse
|
4
|
Lindberg MA, Zeid D. Tests of the Attachment and Developmental Dynamic Systems Theory of Crime (ADDSTOC): Toward a Differential RDoC Diagnostic and Treatment Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2018; 62:3746-3774. [PMID: 29303015 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x17750353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The Attachment and Developmental Dynamic Systems Theory of Crime was tested on 206 male inmates. They completed measures tapping attachments, clinical issues, adverse childhood events, peer crime, and crime addictions. A significant path model was found, going from insecure parental attachments to adverse childhood events, and then on to the behavioral crime addiction and criminal peers scales. Peer crime was also predicted by insecure parent attachments and the crime addiction scale. Finally, the crime addiction, peer crime, and insecure parental attachment scales predicted frequencies of criminal behavior. The model also fit a sample of 239 female inmates. The notions of crime addiction, in this context of adverse events and insecure parental attachments, offered newer and more powerful explanations than previously offered by social learning theories on why some individuals are more likely to associate with peers engaging in criminal behavior, and also how these combine to predict degrees of criminal behavior. By moving beyond main effects models, it was found that a focus on systems of interactions was robust in theory and application. However, profile data from the Attachment and Clinical Issues Questionnaire showed that individual differences in Research Domain Criteria diagnoses are fundamental to treatment settings. Such approaches to reducing rates of recidivism and substance abuse should also enhance outcomes in many domains, including HIV prevention, costs to health care, and at the same time increase overall public safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dana Zeid
- 2 The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kim J, Park A. A systematic review: Candidate gene and environment interaction on alcohol use and misuse among adolescents and young adults. Am J Addict 2018; 27:345-363. [PMID: 29992684 PMCID: PMC6511325 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.12755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Youth drinking is a pervasive public health concern with serious negative developmental implications. Candidate gene and environment interaction studies (cGxE) show that environmental effects on drinking behaviors may differ by individuals' genotypes. Yet little is known about whether genetic and environmental effects on drinking behaviors are developmentally specific. METHODS This systematic review evaluated 42 cGxE studies of drinking in adolescence and young adulthood. RESULTS Although there are mixed findings, studies of cGxE effects involving DRD4, 5-HTTLPR, DRD2, and OPRM1 genotypes showed relatively consistent patterns. The effects of under-controlled environments (eg, low levels of parental monitoring) on early and middle adolescent drinking appeared to differ across DRD2 or OPRM1 genotypes. Effects of alcohol-facilitating environments (eg, heavy drinking peers) on late adolescent and young adult drinking appeared to differ across DRD4 or OPRM1 genotypes. Interactions between 5-HTTLPR genotype with stressful environments (eg, negative life events) were found throughout adolescence and young adulthood, although there were some inconsistencies regarding the risk-conferring allele. There was limited evidence for other cGxE effects due to the small number of studies. CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE This review suggests that GxE findings may advance our knowledge regarding which developmentally specific conditions result in the expression of candidate genes that influence youth alcohol use and misuse. However, since a significant number of studies had small sample sizes and most studies had small effect sizes, findings need replication across independent studies with large samples. (Am J Addict 2018;XX:1-19).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jueun Kim
- Department of Counseling Psychology, Handong Global University, Pohang, South Korea
| | - Aesoon Park
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fairbairn CE, Briley DA, Kang D, Fraley RC, Hankin BL, Ariss T. A meta-analysis of longitudinal associations between substance use and interpersonal attachment security. Psychol Bull 2018; 144:532-555. [PMID: 29494194 DOI: 10.1037/bul0000141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Substance use has long been associated with close relationship distress. Although the direction of influence for this association has not been established, it has often been assumed that substance use is the causal agent and that close relationship distress is the effect. But research seeking to establish temporal precedence in this link has produced mixed findings. Further, theoretical models of substance use and close relationship processes present the plausibility of the inverse pathway-that insecure close relationships may serve as a vulnerability factor for the development of later substance problems. The current review applies an attachment-theoretical framework to the association between close social bonds and substance use and substance-related problems. Targeting longitudinal studies of attachment and substance use, we examined 665 effect sizes drawn from 34 samples (total N = 56,721) spanning time frames ranging from 1 month to 20 years (M = 3.8 years). Results revealed a significant prospective correlation between earlier attachment and later substance use (r = -.11, 95% CI [-.14, -0.08]). Further, cross-lagged coefficients were calculated which parsed auto-regressive effects, indicating that lower attachment security temporally preceded increases in substance use (r = -.05, 95% CI [-.06, -.04]). Analyses further indicated that the pathway from earlier attachment to later substance use was significantly stronger than that from earlier substance use to later attachment. Results also revealed several moderators of the attachment-substance use link. These findings suggest that insecure attachment may be a vulnerability factor for substance use, and indicate close relationship quality as a promising line of inquiry in research on substance use disorder risk. (PsycINFO Database Record
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel A Briley
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Dahyeon Kang
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - R Chris Fraley
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Benjamin L Hankin
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Talia Ariss
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Otten R, van der Zwaluw CS, Engels RC. Testing bidirectional relationships between alcohol use and depressive symptoms: What is the role of the serotonin transporter gene? Alcohol 2018; 66:69-75. [PMID: 29220746 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol abuse often co-exists with a major depressive disorder. In order to understand the development of this comorbidity, it is important to concentrate on the preceding process. It has been suggested that the link between alcohol use and depressive symptoms is a result of an interaction with genetic factors. The aim of this study was to longitudinally examine the effect of the 5-HTTLPR genotype on the association between depressive symptoms and alcohol use in a Dutch community sample. Following a stepwise approach, bivariate correlations, longitudinal regression analyses, and latent growth curve analyses were separately conducted for 316 males and 321 females. A positive correlation between depressive symptoms and alcohol use was shown in female carriers of the 5-HTTLPR short allele. In addition, latent growth curve analyses showed a positive association between alcohol use and the intercept of depressive symptoms (but not the slope), but only in female carriers of the 5-HTTLPR short allele. These findings show that alcohol use may be positively related, at least cross-sectionally, to depressive symptoms in female carriers of the 5-HTTLPR S allele, and indicate that moderators such as SLC6A4 genotype and sex need to be taken into account when examining associations between depressive symptoms and drinking behavior. In order to gain insight into the longitudinal association between alcohol use and depressive symptoms, studies should concentrate on earlier stages and focus on more fine-grained research designs that allow day-to-day changes in both alcohol use and depressive symptoms.
Collapse
|
8
|
Hart H, Lim L, Mehta MA, Curtis C, Xu X, Breen G, Simmons A, Mirza K, Rubia K. Altered Functional Connectivity of Fronto-Cingulo-Striatal Circuits during Error Monitoring in Adolescents with a History of Childhood Abuse. Front Hum Neurosci 2018; 12:7. [PMID: 29434543 PMCID: PMC5797423 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2018.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment is associated with error hypersensitivity. We examined the effect of childhood abuse and abuse-by-gene (5-HTTLPR, MAOA) interaction on functional brain connectivity during error processing in medication/drug-free adolescents. Functional connectivity was compared, using generalized psychophysiological interaction (gPPI) analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data, between 22 age- and gender-matched medication-naïve and substance abuse-free adolescents exposed to severe childhood abuse and 27 healthy controls, while they performed an individually adjusted tracking stop-signal task, designed to elicit 50% inhibition failures. During inhibition failures, abused participants relative to healthy controls exhibited reduced connectivity between right and left putamen, bilateral caudate and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and between right supplementary motor area (SMA) and right inferior and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Abuse-related connectivity abnormalities were associated with longer abuse duration. No group differences in connectivity were observed for successful inhibition. The findings suggest that childhood abuse is associated with decreased functional connectivity in fronto-cingulo-striatal networks during error processing. Furthermore that the severity of connectivity abnormalities increases with abuse duration. Reduced connectivity of error detection networks in maltreated individuals may be linked to constant monitoring of errors in order to avoid mistakes which, in abusive contexts, are often associated with harsh punishment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heledd Hart
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lena Lim
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Imperial College London-Nanyang Technological University Singapore, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mitul A. Mehta
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Curtis
- MRC SGDP Centre, NIHR BRC for Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and SLaM NHS Trust, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xiaohui Xu
- MRC SGDP Centre, NIHR BRC for Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and SLaM NHS Trust, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerome Breen
- MRC SGDP Centre, NIHR BRC for Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and SLaM NHS Trust, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Simmons
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kah Mirza
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katya Rubia
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hellberg SN, Levit JD, Robinson MJ. Under the influence: Effects of adolescent ethanol exposure and anxiety on motivation for uncertain gambling-like cues in male and female rats. Behav Brain Res 2018; 337:17-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
10
|
Reduced functional connectivity of fronto-parietal sustained attention networks in severe childhood abuse. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188744. [PMID: 29190830 PMCID: PMC5708742 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment is associated with attention deficits. We examined the effect of childhood abuse and abuse-by-gene (5-HTTLPR, MAOA, FKBP5) interaction on functional brain connectivity during sustained attention in medication/drug-free adolescents. Functional connectivity was compared, using generalised psychophysiological interaction (gPPI) analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data, between 21 age-and gender-matched adolescents exposed to severe childhood abuse and 27 healthy controls, while they performed a parametrically modulated vigilance task requiring target detection with a progressively increasing load of sustained attention. Behaviourally, participants exposed to childhood abuse had increased omission errors compared to healthy controls. During the most challenging attention condition abused participants relative to controls exhibited reduced connectivity, with a left-hemispheric bias, in typical fronto-parietal attention networks, including dorsolateral, rostromedial and inferior prefrontal and inferior parietal regions. Abuse-related connectivity abnormalities were exacerbated in individuals homozygous for the risky C-allele of the single nucleotide polymorphism rs3800373 of the FK506 Binding Protein 5 (FKBP5) gene. Findings suggest that childhood abuse is associated with decreased functional connectivity in fronto-parietal attention networks and that the FKBP5 genotype moderates neurobiological vulnerability to abuse. These findings represent a first step towards the delineation of abuse-related neurofunctional connectivity abnormalities, which hopefully will facilitate the development of specific treatment strategies for victims of childhood maltreatment.
Collapse
|
11
|
Chronic and remitting trajectories of depressive symptoms in the elderly. Characterisation and risk factors. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2017; 26:146-156. [PMID: 26768574 PMCID: PMC5517623 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796015001122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In elderly general population sub-syndromal clinically significant levels of depressive symptoms are highly prevalent and associated with high co-morbidity and increased mortality risk. However changes in depressive symptoms over time and etiologic factors have been difficult to characterise notably due to methodological shortcomings. Our objective was to differentiate trajectories of depressive symptoms over 10 years in community-dwelling elderly men and women using statistical modelling methods which take into account intra-subject correlation and individual differences as well as to examine current and life-time risk factors associated with different trajectories. METHODS Participants aged 65 and over were administered standardised questionnaires and underwent clinical examinations at baseline and after 2, 4, 7 and 10 years. Trajectories over time of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scores were modelled in 517 men and 736 women separately with latent class mixed models which include both a linear mixed model to describe latent classes of trajectories and a multinomial logistic model to characterise the latent trajectories according to baseline covariates (socio-demographic, lifestyle, clinical, genetic characteristics and stressful life events). RESULTS In both genders two different profiles of symptom changes were observed over the 10-year follow-up. For 9.1% of men and 25% of women a high depressive symptom trajectory was found with a trend toward worsening in men. The majority of the remaining men and women showed decreasing symptomatology over time, falling from clinically significant to very low levels of depressive symptoms. In large multivariate class membership models, mobility limitations [odds ratio (OR) = 4.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.6-12.9 and OR = 4.9, 95% CI 2.3-10.7, in men and women respectively], ischemic pathologies (OR = 2.9, 95% CI 1.0-8.3 and OR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.0-9.9), and recent stressful events (OR = 4.5, 95% CI 1.1-18.5, OR = 3.2, 95% CI 1.6-6.2) were associated with a poor symptom course in both gender as well as diabetes in men (OR = 3.5, 95% CI 1.1-10.9) and childhood traumatic experiences in women (OR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.6-5.8). CONCLUSIONS This prospective study was able to differentiate patterns of chronic and remitting depressive symptoms in elderly people with distinct symptom courses and risk factors for men and women. These findings may inform prevention programmes designed to reduce the chronic course of depressive symptomatology.
Collapse
|
12
|
Lindberg MA, Fugett A, Adkins A, Cook K. Tests of Theories of Crime in Female Prisoners. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OFFENDER THERAPY AND COMPARATIVE CRIMINOLOGY 2017; 61:282-309. [PMID: 26092108 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x15590809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Several general theories of crime were tested with path models on 293 female prisoners in a U.S. State prison. The theories tested included Social Bond and Control, Thrill/Risk Seeking, and a new attachment-based Developmental Dynamic Systems model. A large battery of different instruments ranging from measures of risk taking, to a crime addiction scale, to Childhood Adverse Events, to attachments and clinical issues were used. The older general theories of crime did not hold up well under the rigor of path modeling. The new dynamic systems model was supported that incorporated adverse childhood events leading to (a) peer crime, (b) crime addiction, and (c) a measure derived from the Attachment and Clinical Issues Questionnaire (ACIQ) that takes individual differences in attachments and clinical issues into account. The results were discussed in terms of new approaches to Research Defined Criteria of Diagnosis (RDoC) and new approaches to intervention.
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Genetic factors contribute to more than 50% of the variation in the vulnerability to alcohol dependence (AD). Although significant advances have been made in medications for AD, these medications do not work for all people. Precise tailoring of medicinal strategies for individual alcoholic patients is needed to achieve optimal outcomes. This review updates the most promising information on genetic variants in AD, which may be useful for improving diagnostic, therapeutic, and monitoring strategies. We describe genetic candidates of various neurotransmitter and enzyme systems. In addition to biological and allelic associations with AD, genetic effects on AD-related phenotypes and treatment responses have also been described. Gene-gene and gene-environment interactions have been considered. Potential applications of genomewide and epigenetic approaches for identifying genetic biomarkers of AD have been discussed. Overall, the application of genetic findings in precision medicine for AD will likely involve an integrated approach that distinguishes effect sizes of specific genetic predictors with regard to sex, pharmacotherapy, ethnicity, and AD-related aspects and considers gene-gene and gene-environment interactions. Our work may pave the way toward more precise treatment for AD that could ultimately improve clinical management and interventions.
Collapse
|
14
|
Plemenitas A, Kastelic M, o Porcelli S, Serretti A, Dolžan V, Kores Plesnicar B. Alcohol Dependence and Genetic Variability in the Serotonin Pathway among Currently and Formerly Alcohol-Dependent Males. Neuropsychobiology 2016; 72:57-64. [PMID: 26352193 DOI: 10.1159/000437432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genes involved in the serotonin pathway may determine the susceptibility to alcohol dependence and its severity. The present study explored whether specific polymorphisms in the serotonin pathway could be associated with alcohol dependence or alcohol-related psychopathological symptoms. METHODS The cohort comprised 101 currently and 100 formerly alcohol-dependent males, as well as 97 male healthy blood donors. The following questionnaires were employed: the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, the Zung Depression and Anxiety Scale, the Brief Social Phobia Scale, the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale and Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale, and the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory. Subjects were genotyped for bi- and triallelic SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR,HTR1A rs6295, and HTR1B rs13212041. RESULTS Statistical differences in bi- and triallelic SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR genotype distribution were observed between the 3 groups investigated (p = 0.008 and p = 0.023, respectively); however, no gene-dose effect was observed. The severity of the alcohol problems was higher in currently alcohol-dependent subjects with the 5-HTTLPR LL (p = 0.039) and L′L′ genotypes (p = 0.027). Formerly dependent subjects with the 5-HTTLPR S′S′ genotype showed more social anxiety, depressive, and anxiety traits (p = 0.009, p = 0.006, and p = 0.036, respectively). Healthy controls with the 5-HTTLPR SS genotype showed more traits of social anxiety (p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that bi- and triallelic SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR has some effects on the severity of alcohol dependence. Triallelic 5-HTTLPR was associated with social anxiety, anxiety, and depressive traits in alcohol-dependent subjects.
Collapse
|
15
|
Margret CP, Ries RK. Assessment and Treatment of Adolescent Substance Use Disorders: Alcohol Use Disorders. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2016; 25:411-30. [PMID: 27338964 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol drinking in childhood and adolescence is a serious public health concern. Adolescence is a vulnerable period for risk-taking tendencies. Understanding the influences of problematic alcohol use is important for evolving interventions. Alcohol use in early years foreshadows a lifetime risk for psychiatric and substance use disorders. Early screening and assessment can alter tragic sequelae. We discuss clinical aspects such as confidentiality, differential levels of care, and criteria for best fitting treatments. Given the prevalence of drinking and its impact on psychiatric and substance use disorders, the need for further study and prevention are emphasized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Patrica Margret
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle Children's Hospital, 4575 Sand Point Way Northeast, Suite 105, Seattle, WA 98105, USA.
| | - Richard K Ries
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington, 401 Broadway, 1st floor, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tests of the Attachment and Clinical Issues Questionnaire as It Applies to Alcohol Dependence. J Addict Med 2016; 9:286-95. [PMID: 25974379 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although many major theories tie the addictions to specific pathways and neurochemical systems evolutionarily implicated in food and social behavioral systems, there is a paucity of instruments from the psychological level that can measure these important attachment, social, and emotional counterparts. Two studies were designed to examine whether the Attachment and Clinical Issues Questionnaire (ACIQ) could help fill this limitation in psychological measurement. METHODS In study 1, the ACIQ was given to patients in a substance abuse unit and control participants funneled to match from a larger population. To address the issue of their hypothesized tendency to blame everything on past experiences, study 2 tested whether the above results would be replicated with high school students predicted to develop alcohol dependence. RESULTS In study 1, on the patient population, significant differences were found on the attachment and clinical scales in predicted directions. In study 2, on the high school students, the central predictions were again confirmed with this different and larger population, but with interesting developmental differences. CONCLUSIONS The 2 studies using different populations and definitions of alcohol dependence converged on similar results. The ACIQ was found to be a robust battery for measuring attachment and clinical issues displayed by both patient populations and high school students only predicted to develop alcohol dependence. The results were further discussed in terms of how they move us toward Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) approaches to diagnosis and treatment, paying attention to important individual differences in attachments, and clinical issues.
Collapse
|
17
|
A review of 5-HT transporter linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism and associations with alcohol use problems and sexual risk behaviors. J Community Genet 2016; 7:1-10. [PMID: 26338666 PMCID: PMC4715809 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-015-0253-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use and sexual risk behaviors are multidimensional phenomena involving many genetic and environmental factors. 5-HT transporter linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism constitutes an important factor affecting alcohol use problems and risky sexual behaviors. This paper narratively reviews studies on 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and its associations with alcohol use problems and sexual risk behaviors. We searched the electronic databases, PubMed, Ovid, and Google Scholar for articles using MeSH terms. Relevant articles were reviewed and eligible articles were selected for the study. Many studies have reported a significant but moderate association between 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and alcohol use problems. These studies have implicated the presence of at least one S allele to be associated with significant increases in alcohol use problems. Similarly, some studies associate the S allele with increased sexual risk behaviors. Effective alcohol cessation initiatives and STI/HIV prevention programs should be modified to account for 5-HTTLPR polymorphism before planning interventions; genetic effects could moderate the intervention effect.
Collapse
|
18
|
Fonseca DJ, Mateus HE, Gálvez JM, Forero DA, Talero-Gutierrez C, Velez-van-Meerbeke A. Lack of association of polymorphisms in six candidate genes in colombian adhd patients. Ann Neurosci 2015; 22:217-21. [PMID: 26526368 PMCID: PMC4627201 DOI: 10.5214/ans.0972.7531.220405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neuropsychiatric condition. The disorder has a multifactorial background, with heritability estimates of around 76%, suggesting an important role of genetic factors. Candidate genes include those related to dopaminergic (e.g. DRD4, DRD5, SLC6A3 and DBH)and serotoninergic (e.g.HTR1B and SLC6A4) pathways. PURPOSE To explore the association of common polymorphisms in six genes (DRD4, DRD5, SLC6A3, DBH, HTR1B and SLC6A4) and the susceptibility to ADHD in a Colombian sample population. METHODS trios and 152 healthy controls were recruited. Genotyping of the six polymorphisms was performed using described PCR-based protocols. A TDT analysis was used to test if there was preferential allelic transmission for any of the six polymorphisms. Additionally, a case-control analysis was performed to test for association of the serotoninergic (HTR1B and SLC6A4) polymorphisms with ADHD. RESULTS Through the TDT analysis there was no preferential allelic transmission for any of the studied variants. Case-control analysis did not show association. CONCLUSION This is the first study in Latin America to describe six polymorphisms in a group of patients with ADHD. There was no evidence of association for any of the studied polymorphic variants in this Colombian ADHD sample. Further research, with larger sample sizes and study of endophenotypes, is needed in this population to confirm and extend the results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora J Fonseca
- Research group Geniuros. School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universidad del Rosario. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Heidi E Mateus
- Research group Geniuros. School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universidad del Rosario. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Jubby M Gálvez
- Research group Geniuros. School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universidad del Rosario. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Diego A Forero
- Laboratory of NeuroPsychiatric Genetics, Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claudia Talero-Gutierrez
- Neuroscience Research Group NEUROS. School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universidad del Rosario. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Alberto Velez-van-Meerbeke
- Neuroscience Research Group NEUROS. School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universidad del Rosario. Bogotá, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Thompson MD, Kenna GA. Variation in the Serotonin Transporter Gene and Alcoholism: Risk and Response to Pharmacotherapy. Alcohol Alcohol 2015; 51:164-71. [PMID: 26311211 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agv090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
SLC6A4, the gene encoding the serotonin transporter protein (5-HTT), has been extensively examined as a risk factor for alcohol dependence (AD). More recently, variability in the transporter gene was identified to be a potential moderator of treatment response to serotonergic medications such as ondansetron and sertraline. There is an insertion-deletion polymorphism in the promoter region (5-HTTLPR) of the SLC6A4, with the most common alleles being a 14-repeat short (S) allele and a 16-repeat long (L) allele. The S allele has often been associated with AD. By contrast, the L allele has been associated with pharmacological responsiveness in some individuals with AD. Differences in clinical phenotype may determine the utility of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism as a moderator of pharmacological interventions for AD. We review the AD typology and disease onset in the context of pharmacogenetic and genomic studies that examine the utility of 5-HTTLPR in improving treatment outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miles D Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - George A Kenna
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Xing D, Huang Y, Chen H, Zhu Y, Dagne GA, Baldwin J. Bayesian inference for two-part mixed-effects model using skew distributions, with application to longitudinal semicontinuous alcohol data. Stat Methods Med Res 2015; 26:1838-1853. [PMID: 26092477 DOI: 10.1177/0962280215590284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Semicontinuous data featured with an excessive proportion of zeros and right-skewed continuous positive values arise frequently in practice. One example would be the substance abuse/dependence symptoms data for which a substantial proportion of subjects investigated may report zero. Two-part mixed-effects models have been developed to analyze repeated measures of semicontinuous data from longitudinal studies. In this paper, we propose a flexible two-part mixed-effects model with skew distributions for correlated semicontinuous alcohol data under the framework of a Bayesian approach. The proposed model specification consists of two mixed-effects models linked by the correlated random effects: (i) a model on the occurrence of positive values using a generalized logistic mixed-effects model (Part I); and (ii) a model on the intensity of positive values using a linear mixed-effects model where the model errors follow skew distributions including skew- t and skew-normal distributions (Part II). The proposed method is illustrated with an alcohol abuse/dependence symptoms data from a longitudinal observational study, and the analytic results are reported by comparing potential models under different random-effects structures. Simulation studies are conducted to assess the performance of the proposed models and method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongyuan Xing
- 1 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Yangxin Huang
- 1 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Henian Chen
- 1 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Yiliang Zhu
- 1 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Getachew A Dagne
- 1 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Julie Baldwin
- 2 Department of Community and Family Health, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kim J, Park A, Glatt SJ, Eckert TL, Vanable PA, Scott-Sheldon LAJ, Carey KB, Ewart CK, Carey MP. Interaction effects between the 5-hydroxy tryptamine transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) genotype and family conflict on adolescent alcohol use and misuse. Addiction 2015; 110:289-99. [PMID: 25294733 DOI: 10.1111/add.12753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate whether the effects of family conflict on adolescent drinking differed as a function of 5-hydroxy tryptamine transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) genotype cross-sectionally and prospectively in two independent samples of adolescents. DESIGN Path analysis and multi-group analysis of two prospective datasets were conducted. SETTINGS United States and United Kingdom. PARTICIPANTS Sample 1 was 175 adolescents in the United States (mean age = 15 at times 1 and 2 with a 6-month interval); Sample 2 was 4916 adolescents in the United Kingdon (mean age = 12 at time 1 and 15 at time 2). MEASUREMENTS In both samples, demographics, tri-allelic 5-HTTLPR genotype and perceived family conflict were assessed at time 1. Alcohol use (frequency of drinking) and alcohol misuse (frequency of intoxication, frequency of drinking three or more drinks, maximum number of drinks) were assessed at times 1 and 2. FINDINGS A significant gene-environment interaction on alcohol misuse at time 1 was found in both sample 1 (β = 0.57, P = 0.001) and sample 2 (β = 0.19, P = 0.01), indicating that the 5-HTTLPR low-activity allele carriers exposed to higher levels of family conflict were more likely to engage in alcohol misuse than non-carriers. A significant gene-environment interaction effect on change in alcohol misuse over time was found only in sample 1 (β = 0.48, P = 0.04) but not in sample 2. CONCLUSIONS Compared with non-carriers, adolescents carrying the 5-HTTLPR low-activity allele are more susceptible to the effects of family conflict on alcohol misuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jueun Kim
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen ACH, Davis CM, Kahler CW, Kuerbis AN, Covault J, Kranzler HR, Morgenstern J. 5-HTTLPR moderates naltrexone and psychosocial treatment responses in heavy drinking men who have sex with men. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2014; 38:2362-8. [PMID: 25070809 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 05/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A functional polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene has been widely studied as a risk factor and moderator of treatment for a variety of psychopathologic conditions. To evaluate whether 5-HTTLPR moderates the effects of treatment to reduce heavy drinking, we studied 112 high-functioning European-American men who have sex with men (MSM). Subjects participated in a randomized clinical trial of naltrexone (NTX) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for problem drinking. METHODS Subjects were treated for 12 weeks with 100 mg/d of oral NTX or placebo (PBO). All participants received medical management with adjusted brief behavioral compliance enhancement treatment (BBCET) alone or in combination with modified behavioral self-control therapy (MBSCT; an amalgam of motivational interviewing and CBT). Participants were genotyped for the tri-allelic 5-HTTLPR polymorphism (i.e., low-activity S' or high-activity L' alleles). RESULTS During treatment, the number of weekly heavy drinking days (HDD; defined as 5 or more standard drinks per day) was significantly lower in subjects with the L'L' (N = 26, p = 0.015) or L'S' (N = 52, p = 0.016) genotype than those with the S'S' (N = 34) genotype regardless of treatment type. There was a significant interaction of genotype with treatment: For subjects with the S'S' genotype, the effects of MBSCT or NTX on HDD were significantly greater than the minimal intervention (i.e., BBCET or PBO, p = 0.007 and p = 0.049, respectively). In contrast, for subjects with 1 or 2 L' alleles, the effects of the more intensive psychosocial treatment (MBSCT) or NTX did not significantly differ from BBCET or PBO. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary findings support the utility of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism for personalizing treatment selection in problem drinkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C H Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York; Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc., New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Olsson CA, Moyzis RK, Williamson E, Ellis JA, Parkinson-Bates M, Patton GC, Dwyer T, Romaniuk H, Moore EE. Gene-environment interaction in problematic substance use: interaction between DRD4 and insecure attachments. Addict Biol 2013; 18:717-26. [PMID: 22126256 DOI: 10.1111/j.1369-1600.2011.00413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the combined effect of an exon III variable number tandem repeat in the dopamine receptor gene (DRD4) and insecure attachment style on risk for tobacco, cannabis and alcohol use problems in young adulthood. It was hypothesized that (1) individuals with 5, 6, 7 or 8 repeats (labelled 7R+) would be at increased risk for problematic drug use, and (2) risk for drug use would be further increased in individuals with 7R+ repeats who also have a history of insecure parent-child attachment relations. Data were drawn from the Victorian Adolescent Health Cohort Study, an eight-wave longitudinal study of adolescent and young adult development. DRD4 genotypes were available for 839 participants. Risk attributable to the combined effects of 7R+ genotype and insecure attachments was evaluated within a sufficient causes framework under the assumptions of additive interaction using a two-by-four table format with a common reference group. 7R+ alleles were associated with higher tobacco, cannabis and alcohol use (binging). Insecure attachments were associated with higher tobacco and cannabis use but lower alcohol use. For tobacco, there was evidence of interaction for anxious but not avoidant attachments. For cannabis, there was evidence of interaction for both anxious and avoidant attachments, although the interaction for anxious attachments was more substantial. There is no evidence of interaction for binge drinking. Results are consistent with a generic reward deficit hypothesis of drug addiction for which the 7R+ disposition may play a role. Interaction between 7R+ alleles and attachment insecurity may intensify risk for problematic tobacco and cannabis use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Craig A Olsson
- Department of Psychology, Deakin University, Australia Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hemmings SMJ, Martin LI, Klopper M, van der Merwe L, Aitken L, de Wit E, Black GF, Hoal EG, Walzl G, Seedat S. BDNF Val66Met and DRD2 Taq1A polymorphisms interact to influence PTSD symptom severity: a preliminary investigation in a South African population. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2013; 40:273-80. [PMID: 23103549 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2012.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the role that selected variants in serotonin transporter (5-HTT), dopamine receptor 2 (DRD2) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) genes play in PTSD symptom severity in an at-risk population. We also investigated the interaction between the genetic variants to determine whether these variables and the interactions between the variables influenced the severity of PTSD symptoms. METHODS PTSD symptoms were quantitatively assessed using the Davidson Trauma Scale (DTS) in 150 participants from an at-risk South African population. All participants were genotyped for the 5-HTTLPR, DRD2 Taq1A and BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms. Gene-gene interactions were investigated using various linear models. All analyses were adjusted for age, gender, major depressive disorder diagnosis, level of resilience, level of social support and alcohol dependence. RESULTS A significant interaction effect between DRD2 Taq1A and BDNF Val66Met variants on DTS score was observed. On the background of the BDNF Val66Val genotype, DTS score increased significantly with the addition of a DRD2 Taq1A A1 allele. However, on the BDNF Met66 allele background, the addition of an A1 allele was found to reduce total DTS score. CONCLUSIONS This study provides preliminary evidence for an epistatic interaction between BDNF Val66Met and DRD2 Taq1A polymorphisms on the severity of PTSD symptoms, where both too little and too much dopamine can result in increased PTSD symptom severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sian M J Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Serotonin transporter genotype by environment: Studies on alcohol use and misuse in non-human and human primates. Transl Neurosci 2013. [DOI: 10.2478/s13380-013-0121-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractMuch evidence indicates that gene-by-environment interactions (GxE) play a role in alcohol misuse. It has been proposed that interactions between serotonin and stress confer vulnerability for alcohol misuse. The present review examined studies of the interaction between the serotonin transporter linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) genotype and stressful life events and alcohol-related phenotypes, in rhesus monkeys and humans. Ten studies were found that had investigated the interaction of 5-HTTLPR and various measures of stress and alcohol use or misuse, two studies of rhesus monkeys, and eight of humans. The results are contradictory. Important differences were reported in study samples, experimental designs, measures used to assess environmental variables, definitions and measurements of alcohol-related phenotypes, and in the statistical analyses. These differences may explain the contradictory results. Guidelines for future studies are suggested. Results are discussed in light of findings from molecular, non-human animal, and clinical studies. The review highlights the need for future studies examining associations of interactions between the serotonin transporter gene and environmental factors and alcohol misuse, especially in samples followed over time.
Collapse
|
26
|
Kranzler HR, Scott D, Tennen H, Feinn R, Williams C, Armeli S, Taylor RE, Briggs-Gowan MJ, Covault J. The 5-HTTLPR polymorphism moderates the effect of stressful life events on drinking behavior in college students of African descent. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2012; 159B:484-90. [PMID: 22488930 PMCID: PMC3682418 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Covault et al. [Covault et al. (2007); Biol Psychiatry 61(5): 609-616] reported that the common functional polymorphism, 5-HTTLPR, in the serotonin transporter gene moderated the association between past-year stressful events and daily reports of drinking in a sample of European-American (EA) college students. We examined this effect in college students of African descent. Students recruited at a Historically Black University (n = 564) completed web-based measures of past-year stressful life experiences and daily reports of drinking and heavy drinking over a 30-day period. Participants were genotyped for the tri-allelic 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and dichotomized as low-activity S' allele carriers or high-activity L' homozygotes. Generalized linear models were used to examine the effects of life stress, genotype, and their interaction on the two drinking measures. In students who completed 15 or more daily surveys (n = 393), there was a significant interaction of past-year stressful events, 5-HTTLPR genotype, and gender on the number of drinking days (P = 0.002). Similar findings were obtained in relation to heavy drinking days (P = 0.007). Men showed a main effect of past-year stressful events on both drinking outcomes (P's < 0.001), but no main or moderator effects of genotype. In women, the S' allele moderated the impact of past-year life stressors on the frequency of drinking and heavy drinking days (P's < 0.001). In college students of African descent, past-year stressful events were associated with more frequent drinking and heavy drinking, an effect that was moderated by the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism. However, in contrast to the findings in EA students, in the current sample, 5-HTTLPR moderated the association only among women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry R. Kranzler
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and VISN4 MIRECC, Philadelphia VAMC, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Denise Scott
- Alcohol Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Howard University, Washington, DC 20060
| | - Howard Tennen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030,Department of Community Medicine and Healthcare, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030
| | - Richard Feinn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030
| | - Carla Williams
- Alcohol Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Howard University, Washington, DC 20060
| | - Stephen Armeli
- Department of Psychology, Fairleigh-Dickinson University, Teaneck, NJ 07666
| | - Robert E. Taylor
- Alcohol Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Howard University, Washington, DC 20060
| | | | - Jonathan Covault
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030,To whom correspondence should be addressed at: Department of Psychiatry, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030-1410, Phone: 860-679-7560, Fax: 860-679-1296,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Herman AI, Balogh KN. Polymorphisms of the serotonin transporter and receptor genes: susceptibility to substance abuse. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2012; 3:49-57. [PMID: 22933845 PMCID: PMC3427938 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s25864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) is an important neurotransmitter implicated in regulating substance-use disorder (SUD) acquisition, maintenance, and recovery. During the past several years, an abundance of research has begun discovering and describing specific 5-HT genetic polymorphisms associated with SUDs. Genetic variations in the 5-HT system, such as SLC6A4, HTR1B, HTR2A, HTR2C, HTR3 (HTR3A, HTR3B, HTR3C, HTR3D, and HTR3E), likely play a role contributing to SUD patient heterogeneity. The 5-HT transporter-linked polymorphic region S allele, located in SLC6A4, has now been modestly associated with alcohol dependence in two large meta-analyses. Additional 5-HT genes may also play a role but have not been extensively investigated. A limited number of SUD treatment studies have included 5-HT gene variation as moderating treatment outcomes, but the results have been equivocal. Future research on 5-HT addiction genetics should adopt whole-genome sequencing technology, utilize large study samples, and collect data from multiple ethnic groups. Together, these methods will build on the work already conducted with the aim of utilizing 5-HT genetics in SUD treatment settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aryeh I Herman
- Department of Psychiatry, VA Connecticut Healthcare/Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Carli V, Mandelli L, Zaninotto L, Roy A, Recchia L, Stoppia L, Gatta V, Sarchiapone M, Serretti A. A protective genetic variant for adverse environments? The role of childhood traumas and serotonin transporter gene on resilience and depressive severity in a high-risk population. Eur Psychiatry 2012; 26:471-8. [PMID: 21684723 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2011.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 04/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic aspects may influence the effect of early adverse events on psychological well being in adulthood. In particular, a common polymorphism within the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR short/long) has been associated to the risk for stress-induced psychopathology. In the present study we investigated the role of childhood traumas and 5-HTTLPR on measures of psychological resilience and depression in a sample of individuals at a high risk for psychological distress (763 male prisoners). The 5-HTTLPR genotype did not influence resilience and depressive severity. However, a significant interaction was observed between 5-HTTLPR and childhood traumas on both resilience and depressive severity. In particular, among subjects exposed to severe childhood trauma only, the long-allele was associated to lower resilience scores and increased current depressive severity as compared to short/short homozygous. Sex specific effects, difference in type and duration of stressors and the specific composition of the sample may explain discrepancy with many studies reporting the short-allele as a vulnerability factor for reactivity to stress. We here speculated that in males the long-allele may confer lower resilience and therefore higher vulnerability for depressive symptoms in subjects exposed to early stress and currently living in stressful environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Carli
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pompili M, Serafini G, Innamorati M, Biondi M, Siracusano A, Di Giannantonio M, Giupponi G, Amore M, Lester D, Girardi P, Möller-Leimkühler AM. Substance abuse and suicide risk among adolescents. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2012; 262:469-485. [PMID: 22290639 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-012-0292-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper was to review the literature concerning the relationship between suicide and substance abuse behaviours among adolescents, focusing on epidemiology, comorbidity and preventive programmes. We performed a Pubmed/Medline, Scopus, PsycLit and PsycInfo search to identify all papers and book chapters during the period between 1980 and 2011. Adolescents with substance abuse disorder who attempt or complete suicide can be characterized as having mood disorders, stressful life events, interpersonal problems, poor social support, lonely lives and feelings of hopelessness. The research supports the existence of a strong relationship between suicide and substance abuse. Preventive programmes should be based on the detection of risk factors associated with both suicide and substance abuse disorder. Management programmes should combine different therapeutic strategies such as peer-to-peer education, school-based programmes, psychotherapy and pharmacological treatment. Evidence suggests that targeted suicide prevention programmes can be delivered which reduce the burden associated with substance abuse and suicide in youths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Functions, Suicide Prevention Center, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Differential susceptibility in youth: evidence that 5-HTTLPR x positive parenting is associated with positive affect 'for better and worse'. Transl Psychiatry 2011; 1:e44. [PMID: 22833190 PMCID: PMC3309487 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2011.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Positive affect has been implicated in the phenomenological experience of various psychiatric disorders, vulnerability to develop psychopathology and overall socio-emotional functioning. However, developmental influences that may contribute to positive affect have been understudied. Here, we studied youths' 5-HTTLPR genotype and rearing environment (degree of positive and supportive parenting) to investigate the differential susceptibility hypothesis (DSH) that youth carrying short alleles of 5-HTTLPR would be more influenced and responsive to supportive and unsupportive parenting, and would exhibit higher and lower positive affect, respectively. Three independent studies tested this gene-environment interaction (GxE) in children and adolescents (age range 9-15 years; total N=1874). In study 1 (N=307; 54% girls), positive/supportive parenting was assessed via parent report, in study 2 (N=197; 58% girls) via coded observations of parent-child interactions in the laboratory and in study 3 (N=1370; 53% girls) via self report. Results from all the three studies showed that youth homozygous for the functional short allele of 5-HTTLPR were more responsive to parenting as environmental context in a 'for better and worse' manner. Specifically, the genetically susceptible youth (that is, S'S' group) who experienced unsupportive, non-positive parenting exhibited low levels of positive affect, whereas higher levels of positive affect were reported by genetically susceptible youth under supportive and positive parenting conditions. These GxE findings are consistent with the DSH and may inform etiological models and interventions in developmental psychopathology focused on positive emotion, parenting and genetic susceptibility.
Collapse
|
31
|
Fergusson DM, Boden JM, Horwood LJ. Structural models of the comorbidity of internalizing disorders and substance use disorders in a longitudinal birth cohort. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2011; 46:933-42. [PMID: 20617429 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-010-0268-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2009] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study examined the associations between internalizing disorders and substance use disorders using structural equation models to examine the relative contributions of common fixed confounding factors and direct causal pathways, and to determine the direction of causality. METHODS Data were gathered during the course of the Christchurch Health and Development Study, a 25-year longitudinal study of a birth cohort of New Zealand children (n = 953). Measures included DSM-IV symptom criteria for major depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse/dependence, nicotine dependence, and illicit drug abuse/dependence, ages 18, 21, and 25. RESULTS Structural equation modeling showed that for depression and substance use disorder, the best-fitting model was the one in which the associations were explained by a combination of common fixed factors and direct causal pathways from substance use to depression. A similar pattern emerged for anxiety disorders and (1) nicotine dependence, and (2) illicit drug abuse/dependence. The comorbidity of anxiety disorder and alcohol abuse/dependence was best explained by a model that included common fixed factors and a reciprocal pathway between these disorders. Decomposition of the correlations between internalizing disorders and substance use disorders showed that most of the correlation arose from direct causal pathways between disorders. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that the comorbidity between internalizing disorders and substance use disorders can be attributed to both common fixed factors and direct causal pathways between substance use disorder and internalizing disorder. The evidence suggests that, in most cases, the most plausible explanation of causality is the one in which substance use disorder increases the risk of internalizing disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David M Fergusson
- Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Merenäkk L, Mäestu J, Nordquist N, Parik J, Oreland L, Loit HM, Harro J. Effects of the serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR) and α2A-adrenoceptor (C-1291G) genotypes on substance use in children and adolescents: a longitudinal study. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2011; 215:13-22. [PMID: 21140256 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-010-2109-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2010] [Accepted: 11/19/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE Twin studies suggest that substance use initiation in children and adolescents is determined primarily by environmental influences, whereas the establishment of use patterns is strongly controlled by genetic factors. The present study analysed the effects of the serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism [5-HT transporter gene-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR)] and the α(2A)-adrenoceptor C-1291G genotype (ADRA2A C-1291G) as well as their interaction effects on alcohol, tobacco and drug use from preadolescence to the late adolescence. METHODS Initial sample of 9-year-old children of Estonian Children Personality Behaviour and Health Study (n = 583) was recalled at ages 15 and 18. Participants reported in all waves how frequently they smoked and used alcohol and illicit drugs. RESULTS 5-HTTLPR had age-dependent effects on alcohol, tobacco and drug use: substance use did not differ by genotype at age 9, but at age 15, the participants with the short (s)/s genotype had higher tobacco use, and at age 18, they were more active alcohol, drug and tobacco users. Effects of ADRA2A C-1291G on drug use were dependent on gender, age and 5-HTTLPR. Males (age 18) with ADRA2A CG genotype, when compared to other participants, tended to have higher drug use especially when they had s/s genotype of 5-HTTLPR. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal that expression of genetic vulnerability for substance use in children and adolescents may depend on age, gender, interaction of genes, and type of substance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liis Merenäkk
- Department of Public Health, Estonian Centre of Behavioural and Health Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kogan SM, Beach SRH, Philibert RA, Brody GH, Chen YF, Lei MK. 5-HTTLPR status moderates the effect of early adolescent substance use on risky sexual behavior. Health Psychol 2011; 29:471-6. [PMID: 20836601 DOI: 10.1037/a0020594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A longitudinal, prospective design was used to investigate a moderation effect in the association between early adolescent substance use and risky sexual behavior 2 years later. A genetic vulnerability factor, a variable nucleotide repeat polymorphism (VNTR) in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4, known as 5-HTTLPR, was hypothesized to moderate the link between substance use at age 14 and risky sexual behavior at age 16. This VNTR has been associated with risk-taking behavior. DESIGN African American youths in rural Georgia (N = 185) provided 2 waves of data on their substance use and sexual behavior. Genetic data were obtained via saliva samples. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Substance use and sexual risk behavior were assessed using youth self-report items developed for this investigation. RESULTS Multiple regression analyses indicated that the presence of 1 or 2 copies of the short allele of the VNTR interacted with substance use to predict sexual behavior. Substance use had little effect on sexual behavior for youths without the short allele; this effect was greatly increased for youths with the short allele. CONCLUSION Genetic vulnerability affected the implications of early onset substance use for later sexual behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Kogan
- Center for Family Research, University of Georgia, 1095 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30605-4527, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
van der Zwaluw CS, Kuntsche E, Engels RCME. Risky alcohol use in adolescence: the role of genetics (DRD2, SLC6A4) and coping motives. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2011; 35:756-64. [PMID: 21244440 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01393.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drinking to cope (i.e., drinking to forget or alleviate negative feelings) has been found to be associated with adolescents' heavy drinking and alcohol-related problems. Additionally, it is widely accepted that genetic factors are involved in alcohol use and dependence. Studies are only beginning to reveal, however, which specific genotypes are related to drinking behaviors, and it is unknown whether they may interact with coping motives in predicting adolescents' risky drinking. The aim of this study was to examine relationships between the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2) Taq1A polymorphism (rs1800497), a serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) polymorphism (5-HTTLPR), coping motives, and adolescents' binge drinking and alcohol-related problems. METHODS Participants in this cross-sectional study were 282 Dutch adolescents (mean age 17.4, 47% men) who had consumed alcohol at least once in their life. RESULTS Coping motives were positively related to both binge drinking and alcohol-related problems, while DRD2 and SLC6A4 genotypes were not. DRD2, but not the SLC6A4 genotype, interacted with coping motives. The link between coping motives and alcohol outcomes was stronger among those carrying the DRD2 risk (A1) allele. CONCLUSIONS This study extends the present literature by providing additional insight into the etiological factors of adolescent drinking behavior. An interaction between a vulnerability gene (DRD2) and a cognitive factor (coping drinking) was found to be related to adolescents' binge drinking and alcohol-related problems.
Collapse
|
35
|
Tartter MA, Ray LA. The Serotonin Transporter Polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and Alcohol Problems in Heavy Drinkers: Moderation by Depressive Symptoms. Front Psychiatry 2011; 2:49. [PMID: 21852976 PMCID: PMC3151606 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heavy alcohol use in young adults has been prospectively associated with a host of psychosocial and alcohol-related problems. Recent studies have supported the interaction between serotonin transporter polymorphism and adverse environmental factors, as a predictor of alcohol use and the development of alcohol dependence. The current study examined the role of depressive symptoms in combination with the serotonin transporter polymorphism as a predictor of alcohol use and alcohol-related problems. Results revealed a significant genotype by depressive symptom interaction, such that heavier alcohol use was associated with depressive symptoms in L allele homozygotes but not among S allele carriers. These results remained significant after controlling for ethnicity and gender effects. These findings extend the emerging literature supporting 5-HTTLPR genotype as a risk factor for alcohol-related problems in the context of co-occurring symptoms of depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly A Tartter
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Gene-environment (G × E) interaction research is an emerging area in psychiatry, with the number of G × E studies growing rapidly in the past two decades. This article aims to give a comprehensive introduction to the field, with an emphasis on central theoretical and practical problems that are worth considering before conducting a G × E interaction study. On the theoretical side, we discuss two fundamental, but controversial questions about (1) the validity of statistical models for biological interaction and (2) the utility of G × E research for psychiatric genetics. On the practical side, we focus on study characteristics that potentially influence the outcome of G × E interaction studies and discuss strengths and pitfalls of different study designs, including recent approaches like Genome-Environment Wide Interaction Studies (GEWIS). Finally, we discuss recent developments in G × E interaction research on the most heavily investigated example in psychiatric genetics, the interaction between a serotonin transporter gene promoter variant (5-HTTLPR) and stress on depression.
Collapse
|
37
|
Hankin BL, Jenness J, Abela JRZ, Smolen A. Interaction of 5-HTTLPR and idiographic stressors predicts prospective depressive symptoms specifically among youth in a multiwave design. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2011; 40:572-85. [PMID: 21722029 PMCID: PMC3164979 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2011.581613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
5-HTTLPR, episodic stressors, depressive and anxious symptoms were assessed prospectively (child and parent report) every 3 months over 1 year (5 waves of data) among community youth ages 9 to 15 (n = 220). Lagged hierarchical linear modeling analyses showed 5-HTTLPR interacted with idiographic stressors (increases relative to the child's own average level over time), but not nomothetic stressors (higher stress exposure relative to the sample), to predict prospective elevations in depressive, but not anxious, symptoms. Youth with copies of the S or L(G) alleles of 5-HTTLPR, who experienced more stressors relative to their typical level, exhibited prospective increases in depressive symptoms over time. These findings suggest that 5-HTTLPR confers susceptibility to depression via stress reactivity.
Collapse
|
38
|
Fox HC, Bergquist KL, Peihua G, Rajita S. Interactive effects of cumulative stress and impulsivity on alcohol consumption. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2010; 34:1376-85. [PMID: 20491738 DOI: 10.1111/j.1530-0277.2010.01221.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol addiction may reflect adaptations to stress, reward, and regulatory brain systems. While extensive research has identified both stress and impulsivity as independent risk factors for drinking, few studies have assessed the interactive relationship between stress and impulsivity in terms of hazardous drinking within a community sample of regular drinkers. METHODS One hundred and thirty regular drinkers (56M/74F) from the local community were assessed for hazardous and harmful patterns of alcohol consumption using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). All participants were also administered the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) as a measure of trait impulsivity and the Cumulative Stress/Adversity Checklist (CSC) as a comprehensive measure of cumulative adverse life events. Standard multiple regression models were used to ascertain the independent and interactive nature of both overall stress and impulsivity as well as specific types of stress and impulsivity on hazardous and harmful drinking. RESULTS Recent life stress, cumulative traumatic stress, overall impulsivity, and nonplanning-related impulsivity as well as cognitive and motor-related impulsivity were all independently predictive of AUDIT scores. However, the interaction between cumulative stress and total impulsivity scores accounted for a significant amount of the variance, indicating that a high to moderate number of adverse events and a high trait impulsivity rating interacted to affect greater AUDIT scores. The subscale of cumulative life trauma accounted for the most variance in AUDIT scores among the stress and impulsivity subscales. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the interactive relationship between stress and impulsivity with regard to hazardous drinking. The specific importance of cumulative traumatic stress as a marker for problem drinking is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helen C Fox
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, The Yale Stress Center, New Haven, Connecticut 06519, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wermter AK, Laucht M, Schimmelmann BG, Banaschewski T, Sonuga-Barke EJS, Rietschel M, Becker K. From nature versus nurture, via nature and nurture, to gene x environment interaction in mental disorders. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2010; 19:199-210. [PMID: 20024596 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-009-0082-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2009] [Accepted: 11/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
It is now generally accepted that complex mental disorders are the results of interplay between genetic and environmental factors. This holds out the prospect that by studying G x E interplay we can explain individual variation in vulnerability and resilience to environmental hazards in the development of mental disorders. Furthermore studying G x E findings may give insights in neurobiological mechanisms of psychiatric disorder and so improve individualized treatment and potentially prevention. In this paper, we provide an overview of the state of field with regard to G x E in mental disorders. Strategies for G x E research are introduced. G x E findings from selected mental disorders with onset in childhood or adolescence are reviewed [such as depressive disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obesity, schizophrenia and substance use disorders]. Early seminal studies provided evidence for G x E in the pathogenesis of depression implicating 5-HTTLPR, and conduct problems implicating MAOA. Since then G x E effects have been seen across a wide range of mental disorders (e.g., ADHD, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance abuse disorder) implicating a wide range of measured genes and measured environments (e.g., pre-, peri- and postnatal influences of both a physical and a social nature). To date few of these G x E effects have been sufficiently replicated. Indeed meta-analyses have raised doubts about the robustness of even the most well studied findings. In future we need larger, sufficiently powered studies that include a detailed and sophisticated characterization of both phenotype and the environmental risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Kathrin Wermter
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University of Marburg, Hans-Sachs-Strasse 6, Marburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Buchmann AF, Schmid B, Blomeyer D, Becker K, Treutlein J, Zimmermann US, Jennen-Steinmetz C, Schmidt MH, Esser G, Banaschewski T, Rietschel M, Schumann G, Laucht M. Impact of age at first drink on vulnerability to alcohol-related problems: testing the marker hypothesis in a prospective study of young adults. J Psychiatr Res 2009; 43:1205-12. [PMID: 19332346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2009.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2008] [Revised: 01/08/2009] [Accepted: 02/23/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
There is ample evidence that the early initiation of alcohol use is a risk factor for the development of later alcohol-related problems. The purpose of the current study was to examine whether this association can be explained by indicators of a common underlying susceptibility or whether age at drinking onset may be considered as an independent predictor of later drinking behavior, suggesting a potential causal relationship. Participants were drawn from a prospective cohort study of the long-term outcomes of early risk factors followed up from birth onwards. Structured interviews were administered to 304 participants to assess age at first drink and current drinking behavior. Data on risk factors, including early family adversity, parental alcohol use, childhood psychopathology and stressful life events, were repeatedly collected during childhood using standardized parent interviews. In addition, information on genotype was considered. Results confirmed previous work demonstrating that hazardous alcohol consumption is related to early-adolescent drinking onset. A younger age of first drink was significantly predicted by 5-HTTLPR genotype and the degree of preceding externalizing symptoms, and both factors were related to increased consumption or harmful alcohol use at age 19. However, even after controlling for these potential explanatory factors, earlier age at drinking onset remained a strong predictor of heavy alcohol consumption in young adulthood. The present longitudinal study adds to the current literature indicating that the early onset - adult hazardous drinking association cannot solely be attributed to shared genetic and psychopathologic risk factors as examined in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arlette F Buchmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Laucht M, Treutlein J, Schmid B, Blomeyer D, Becker K, Buchmann AF, Schmidt MH, Esser G, Jennen-Steinmetz C, Rietschel M, Zimmermann US, Banaschewski T. Impact of psychosocial adversity on alcohol intake in young adults: moderation by the LL genotype of the serotonin transporter polymorphism. Biol Psychiatry 2009; 66:102-9. [PMID: 19358979 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2009.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2008] [Revised: 02/17/2009] [Accepted: 02/22/2009] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence from animal studies supports a role for serotonin transporter gene promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) gene-environment interaction (G x E) in the development of excessive alcohol intake. Few studies in humans have been conducted on this topic, yielding inconsistent results. The present study aims to further explore G x E between 5-HTTLPR and exposure to psychosocial adversity on alcohol consumption in a high-risk community sample of young adults. METHODS Data were collected as part of the Mannheim Study of Children at Risk, an ongoing epidemiological cohort study following the outcome of early risk factors from birth into young adulthood. At age 19 years, 309 participants (142 male participants, 167 female participants) were genotyped for the biallelic and triallelic 5-HTTLPR and were administered a 45-day alcohol timeline follow-back interview, providing measures of the total number of drinks and the number of binge drinking days. Psychosocial adversity was assessed at birth (family adversity) and at age 19 (negative life events). RESULTS In contrast to various previous reports, a significant G x E emerged, indicating that, when exposed to high psychosocial adversity, individuals with the LL genotype of 5-HTTLPR exhibited more hazardous drinking than those carrying the S allele or those without exposure to adversity. This effect, which was confined to male participants, held both for different classifications of 5-HTTLPR and different types of adversity. CONCLUSIONS One explanation for the discrepant results might be heterogeneity in alcohol phenotypes. While the L allele relates more strongly to early-onset alcoholism, the S allele may be linked more closely to alcohol use associated with anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Laucht
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Saraceno L, Munafó M, Heron J, Craddock N, van den Bree MBM. Genetic and non-genetic influences on the development of co-occurring alcohol problem use and internalizing symptomatology in adolescence: a review. Addiction 2009; 104:1100-21. [PMID: 19438423 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2009.02571.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Alcohol problem use during adolescence has been linked to a variety of adverse consequences, including cigarette and illicit drug use, delinquency, adverse effects on pubertal brain development and increased risk of morbidity and mortality. In addition, heavy alcohol-drinking adolescents are at increased risk of comorbid psychopathology, including internalizing symptomatology (especially depression and anxiety). A range of genetic and non-genetic factors have been implicated in both alcohol problem use as well as internalizing symptomatology. However, to what extent shared risk factors contribute to their comorbidity in adolescence is poorly understood. DESIGN We conducted a systematic review on Medline, PsycINFO, Embase and Web of Science to identify epidemiological and molecular genetic studies published between November 1997 and November 2007 that examined risk factors that may be shared in common between alcohol problem use and internalizing symptomatology in adolescence. FINDINGS Externalizing disorders, family alcohol problems and stress, as well as the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) S-allele, the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) low-activity alleles and the dopamine D2 receptor (DDR2) Taq A1 allele have been associated most frequently with both traits. An increasing number of papers are focusing upon the role of gene-gene (epistasis) and gene-environment interactions in the development of comorbid alcohol problem use and internalizing symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS Further research in adolescents is warranted; the increasing availability of large longitudinal genetically informative studies will provide the evidence base from which effective prevention and intervention strategies for comorbid alcohol problems and internalizing symptomatology can be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Saraceno
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Interaction between the 5-HTTLPR serotonin transporter polymorphism and environmental adversity for mood and anxiety psychopathology: evidence from a high-risk community sample of young adults. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2009; 12:737-47. [PMID: 19154632 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145708009875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research examining gene-environment interaction (GxE) with regard to vulnerability to depression and anxiety has yielded conflicting results. The present study was designed to further investigate GxE between 5-HTTLPR and exposure to environmental adversity, using different phenotypic and genotypic characterizations as well as different types of adversity within a prospective study design. Data were available from an ongoing epidemiological cohort study following the outcome of early risk factors from birth to adulthood. At age 19 yr, 309 participants (142 males, 167 females) were characterized on measures of depression and anxiety through interview and questionnaire (DSM-IV diagnosis, Beck Depression Inventory, Harm Avoidance). Environmental adversity was assessed at birth (family adversity), and at age 19 yr (stressful life events). Bi- and tri-allelic 5-HTTLPR genotypes were obtained from genomic DNA. Results indicated that depression and anxiety in 19-yr-olds were strongly associated with both family adversity and stressful life events. Individuals with the LL genotype of 5-HTTLPR who were exposed to high family adversity displayed significantly higher rates of depressive or anxiety disorders and had more depressive symptoms than those without either condition. This GxE replicates recent findings from an epidemiological cohort study of adolescents but is in contrast to many previous reports suggesting an interaction with the S allele. No evidence for GxE was obtained with regard to current stressful life events and trait anxiety. One possible source for the conflicting findings might be attributed to heterogeneity in depression phenotypes and environmental adversity.
Collapse
|
44
|
van der Zwaluw CS, Engels RCME. Gene-environment interactions and alcohol use and dependence: current status and future challenges. Addiction 2009; 104:907-14. [PMID: 19466917 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2009.02563.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM To discuss the current status of gene-environment interaction research with regard to alcohol use and dependence. Further, we highlight the difficulties concerning gene-environment studies. METHODS Overview of the current evidence for gene-environment interactions in alcohol outcomes, and of the associated challenges in gene-environment studies. RESULTS Attention to the causative roles of gene-environment interactions in alcohol use and dependence is increasing. Studies with twin designs are beginning to examine gene-shared environment effects, and animal studies have investigated gene-environment interaction effects on alcohol intake in primates. Thirteen studies incorporated gene-environment interactions in examining alcohol use or dependence in humans. These studies held a variety of candidate genes and environmental risk factors and their heterogeneity made it impossible to draw firm general conclusions. CONCLUSIONS Challenges for future gene-environment studies are abundant, and consist of, for example, the development of clear theoretical assumptions about neurobiological mechanisms and the recruitment of large longitudinal samples that already start in childhood. Replication is essential to prevent an overload of false-positive results. Despite the difficulties, it is crucial to include gene-environment interactions in future studies in order to unravel the aetiological factors of human alcohol outcomes.
Collapse
|
45
|
Zhang K, Xu Q, Xu Y, Yang H, Luo J, Sun Y, Sun N, Wang S, Shen Y. The combined effects of the 5-HTTLPR and 5-HTR1A genes modulates the relationship between negative life events and major depressive disorder in a Chinese population. J Affect Disord 2009; 114:224-31. [PMID: 18848359 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2008.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2008] [Revised: 07/17/2008] [Accepted: 07/17/2008] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotonin transporter (5-HTT) and 5-HT receptor (5-HTR) involved in the neurotransmission of 5-HT may play an important role in the development of major depression disorder (MDD). Several lines of evidence suggested that the gene-environment interaction may confer susceptibility to depression. The aim of this study is to analyze the combined effect of four serotonin-related genes and two environmental factors on MDD in a Chinese population. METHODS This study recruited a total of 401 patients with MDD and 391 age- and gender-matched control subjects. They were all Chinese Han origin. Negative life events and objective social supports were assessed using standard rating scales. Six polymorphisms in the four serotonin-related genes (5-HTT, 5-HTR1A, 5-HTR1B and 5-HTR2A) were selected to detect. The analyses of the gene-environment interactions were performed by the Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction (MDR). RESULTS Allelic associations between patients with MDD and controls were observed for the polymorphism of 5-HTTLPR and for rs6295 at the 5-HTR1A locus. The 5-HTTLPR polymorphism was associated with negative life events on MDD. A three-way interaction between the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism, rs6295 and negative life events on MDD was found in the individuals aged from 20 years to 29 years. In addition, the individuals carrying the L/L genotype of 5-HTTLPR could be susceptible to MDD when exposed to negative life events. CONCLUSIONS The 5-HTTLPR polymorphism may modify the interaction between negative life events and MDD in the Chinese population. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the combined effect for the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and 5-HTR1A genes on modifying the response to negative life events conferring susceptibility to MDD in the 20-29 year group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerang Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Dawes MA, Mathias CW, Richard DM, Hill-Kapturczak N, Dougherty DM. Adolescent Suicidal Behavior and Substance Use: Developmental Mechanisms. Subst Abuse 2008; 2:13-28. [PMID: 20651946 PMCID: PMC2907920 DOI: 10.4137/sart.s1044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent suicidal behaviors and substance use are disturbingly common. Research suggests overlap of some of the etiological mechanisms for both adolescent suicidal behavior and substance use, yet clear understanding of the complex relations between these behaviors and their causal underpinnings is lacking. A growing body of evidence and a diathesis model (Mann et al. 1999; Mann, 2003) highlight the importance of impulse control as a proximal risk factor for adolescent suicidal and substance use behaviors. This literature review extends current theory on the relationships between adolescent suicidal behavior and substance use by: (1) examining how, when, and to what extent adolescent development is affected by poor impulse control, stressful life events, substance use behavior, and biological factors; (2) presenting proposed causal mechanisms by which these risk factors interact to increase risk for suicidal behaviors and substance use; and (3) proposing specific new hypotheses to extend the diathesis model to adolescents at risk for suicide and substance use. More specifically, new hypotheses are presented that predict bidirectional relationships between stressful life events and genetic markers of 5-HT dysregulation; substance use behavior and impulsivity; and substance use behavior and suicide attempts. The importance of distinguishing between different developmental trajectories of suicidal and substance use behaviors, and the effects of specific risk and protective mechanisms are discussed. Use of new statistical approaches that provide for the comparison of latent growth curves and latent class models is recommended to identify differences in developmental trajectories of suicidal behavior and substance use. Knowledge gained from these prospective longitudinal methods should lead to greater understanding on the timing, duration, and extent to which specific risk and protective factors influence the outcomes of suicidal behavior and substance use. In turn, findings from these studies should inform researchers who conduct future treatment and prevention studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Dawes
- All of the authors are in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MC 7792, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, United States of America
| | - Charles W Mathias
- All of the authors are in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MC 7792, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, United States of America
| | - Dawn M Richard
- All of the authors are in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MC 7792, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, United States of America
| | - Nathalie Hill-Kapturczak
- All of the authors are in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MC 7792, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, United States of America
| | - Donald M Dougherty
- All of the authors are in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction, Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MC 7792, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Spriggs M, Olsson CA, Hall W. How will information about the genetic risk of mental disorders impact on stigma? Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2008; 42:214-20. [PMID: 18247196 DOI: 10.1080/00048670701827226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To suggest ways of testing hypotheses about the impact that information on genetic risk may have on the social stigma of mental disorders and to analyse the implications of these hypotheses for genetic screening for mental disorders. METHOD Literature review and critical analysis and synthesis. RESULTS An optimistic view is that information on the genetic risk for mental disorders will reduce blame and social stigma experienced by individuals living with mental disorder. A more pessimists view is that genetic risk information and the use of predictive genetic testing will lead to earlier stigmatization of those at risk of mental disorders. Research is identified that is needed to provide a better understanding of the implications of predictive genetic testing for the stigmatization of different mental health disorders. CONCLUSIONS It is essential that research on the genetics of mental disorders is accompanied by social science research on the ways in which genetic findings influence the lives of those who are tested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merle Spriggs
- Ethics Unit, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Johnson BA, Javors MA, Roache JD, Seneviratne C, Bergeson SE, Ait-Daoud N, Dawes MA, Ma JZ. Can serotonin transporter genotype predict serotonergic function, chronicity, and severity of drinking? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2008; 32:209-16. [PMID: 17950969 PMCID: PMC2270792 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2007.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2007] [Revised: 07/24/2007] [Accepted: 07/25/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin transporter (5-HTT) activity is greater in carriers of the long (L) vs. short (S) alleles of the 5-HTT-linked polymorphic region (5'-HTTLPR) among healthy control subjects but not alcohol-dependent adults. In 198 alcoholics, we determined the relationship between current or lifetime drinking and platelet 5-HTT function and density among allelic variants of the 5'-HTTLPR. SS subjects were younger than L-carriers (LL and LS) (p<0.0085) and had fewer years of lifetime drinking. For L-carriers, the mean of Bmax for paroxetine binding, but not Vmax for serotonin (5-HT) uptake, was lower than that for SS subjects (p<0.05). More L-carriers than their SS counterparts had Vmax for 5-HT uptake below 200 nmol/10(7) platelets-min (p<0.05) and Bmax for paroxetine binding below 600 nmol/mg protein (p<0.06). Current drinking (drinks per day during the past 14 days) correlated positively with Km and Vmax of platelet 5-HT uptake (p<0.05) and negatively with Bmax, but not Kd, of paroxetine binding (p<0.05) for L-carriers alone. Years of lifetime drinking correlated negatively with Km and Vmax of platelet 5-HT uptake (p<0.05) and B(max), but not Kd, of paroxetine binding (p<0.05) for L-carriers alone. Among L-carriers alone, there were higher levels of platelet 5-HT uptake and lower levels of platelet paroxetine binding with increased drinking, and more lifetime drinking was associated with modestly lower levels of 5-HT uptake and paroxetine binding. Thus, 5-HTT expression varies with current and lifetime drinking in L-carriers alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bankole A Johnson
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0623, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Olsson CA, Byrnes GB, Anney RJL, Collins V, Hemphill SA, Williamson R, Patton GC. COMT Val158Met and 5HTTLPR functional loci interact to predict persistence of anxiety across adolescence: results from the Victorian Adolescent Health Cohort Study. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2007; 6:647-52. [PMID: 17504250 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2007.00313.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether a composite genetic factor, based on the combined actions of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) (Val(158)Met) and serotonin transporter (5HTTLPR) (Long-Short) functional loci, has a greater capacity to predict persistence of anxiety across adolescence than either locus in isolation. Analyses were performed on DNA collected from 962 young Australians participating in an eight-wave longitudinal study of mental health and well-being (Victorian Adolescent Health Cohort Study). When the effects of each locus were examined separately, small dose-response reductions in the odds of reporting persisting generalized (free-floating) anxiety across adolescence were observed for the COMT Met(158) [odds ratio (OR) = 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.76-0.95, P = 0.004] and 5HTTLPR Short alleles (OR = 0.88, CI = 0.79-0.99, P = 0.033). There was no evidence for a dose-response interaction effect between loci. However, there was a double-recessive interaction effect in which the odds of reporting persisting generalized anxiety were more than twofold reduced (OR = 0.45, CI = 0.29-0.70, P < 0.001) among carriers homozygous for both the COMT Met(158) and the 5HTTLPR Short alleles (Met(158)Met + Short-Short) compared with the remaining cohort. The double-recessive effect remained after multivariate adjustment for a range of psychosocial predictors of anxiety. Exploratory stratified analyses suggested that genetic protection may be more pronounced under conditions of high stress (insecure attachments and sexual abuse), although strata differences did not reach statistical significance. By describing the interaction between genetic loci, it may be possible to describe composite genetic factors that have a more substantial impact on psychosocial development than individual loci alone, and in doing so, enhance understanding of the contribution of constitutional processes in mental health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C A Olsson
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, the University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Chipman P, Jorm AF, Prior M, Sanson A, Smart D, Tan X, Easteal S. No interaction between the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and childhood adversity or recent stressful life events on symptoms of depression: results from two community surveys. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2007; 144B:561-5. [PMID: 17450557 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.30480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In this study we investigated interactions between the 5-HTTLPR genotype and environmental risk factors (G x E) on symptoms of depression in two large Australian community samples of adolescents and young adults. We postulated that a significant interaction between the 5-HTTLPR genotype and environmental risk factors of childhood adversity or stressful life events on symptoms of depression would be observed in subjects with at least one short allele (s/l or s/s) compared with subjects with no short alleles (l/l). We did not find significant G x E interactions between the 5-HTTLPR genotype and recent stressful life events or childhood adversity on symptoms of depression in our sample populations. However, we did find adolescents aged 17-18 years homozygous for the long allele (l/l) and exposed to persistently high levels of family adversity over a 6-year period were at a greater risk of depression than subjects with the same genotype exposed to no or persistently low levels of family adversity. This interaction should be interpreted cautiously due to the small number of depressed subjects in the sample with persistently high levels of family adversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Chipman
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|