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Neuroticism is not associated with the serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism
J D Flory1, S B Manuck, R E Ferrell
1Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA. jdf3@pitt.edu
Molecular Psychiatry
|March 24, 1999
Summary
The serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) was not associated with neuroticism in this study. These findings question the reproducibility of previous research on 5-HTTLPR and personality traits.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) has been controversially linked to neuroticism.
- Previous replication attempts have yielded inconsistent results due to methodological differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between 5-HTTLPR and neuroticism using a methodology comparable to the initial study.
- To address inconsistencies in prior research by employing a similar sample and assessment tools.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism in 225 Caucasian adults.
- Assessment of neuroticism using the NEO Personality Inventory.
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and overall neuroticism.
- Men with the short 5-HTTLPR allele reported lower anxiety, contrary to initial findings.
Conclusions:
- The reproducibility of the 5-HTTLPR and neuroticism association is questionable.
- Contradictory findings suggest a need for large, diverse replication studies stratified by ethnicity and sex.