Life events, first depression onset and the serotonin transporter gene.
BACKGROUND
A relationship between the serotonin transporter gene, adverse events and onset of major depression has been reported.


OBJECTIVE
To replicate a gene x environment interaction in a cohort with longitudinal data for life events, experience of depression, parental bonding and neuroticism.


METHODS
At the 25-year follow-up, genomic DNA was obtained from 127 cohort members (mean age 48 years) to determine the genotype of the serotonin transporter gene-linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR). Associations were investigated between the 5-HTTLPR genotype, positive and adverse life events and the gene x environment interaction, and also between the 5-HTTLPR genotype and risk factors for depression.


RESULTS
No relationship was found between 5-HTTLPR genotype and either risk factors for depression or positive life events. Adverse life events had a significantly greater impact on the onset of depression for individuals with the s/s genotype.


CONCLUSIONS
The 5-HTTLPR genotype is a significant predictor of onset of major depression following multiple adverse events. This is one of the more robust findings concerning specific biological risk factors for depression.
Wilhelm
Kay
K
Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, Level 4, DeLacy Building, St Vincent's Hospital, Victoria Street, Sydney, New South Wales 2010, Australia. kwilhelm@stvincents.com.au
Mitchell
Philip B
PB
Niven
Heather
H
Finch
Adam
A
Wedgwood
Lucinda
L
Scimone
Anna
A
Blair
Ian P
IP
Parker
Gordon
G
Schofield
Peter R
PR
D000328:Adult; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005838:Genotype; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D009497:Neurotic Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D009769:Object Attachment; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D012307:Risk Factors; D050486:Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins / Q000235:genetics*; D012737:Sex Factors
D050486:Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins