Gender difference in association between polymorphism of serotonin transporter gene regulatory region and anxiety

Abstract 

Objective

The objective of this study was to verify the hypothesis that variation of the serotonin transporter gene promoter region (5-HTTLPR) is associated with sensitivity to stress.

Methods

Genotyping of 5-HTTLPR and evaluation of emotional states were performed on 194 participants. Participants' emotional states were evaluated using the Perceived-Stress Scale (PSS), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS).

Results

There was significant Gender×Genotype interaction in STAI (state, P<.05; trait, P<.05). Females with the l/s genotype showed higher anxiety than those with the s/s genotype in both state and trait anxiety. Oppositely, males with the s/s genotype showed higher anxiety than those with the l/s genotype.

Conclusion

On all emotional scales, females with the l/s genotype showed high scores, contrary to males with the same genotype. Therefore, our results suggest that 5-HTTLPR l allele may be one pathway that activates negative emotion in females but acts contrary in males.

Keywords: Anxiety, Depression, Gender, Gene (serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism), Serotonin, Stress