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Androgen receptor trinucleotide repeat polymorphism and personality traits
E G Jönsson1, C von Gertten, J P Gustavsson
1Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. erikj@psyk.ks.se
Psychiatric Genetics
|June 21, 2001
Summary
This study found no significant link between androgen receptor gene variations and personality traits in Swedish adults. While some tendencies were observed for dominance and aggression, further research is needed for confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral genetics
- Molecular psychiatry
- Human personality research
Background:
- Family and twin studies confirm a heritable basis for personality traits.
- Individual differences in personality are often measured using self-report questionnaires.
- The androgen receptor gene is a candidate gene for behavioral traits due to its role in hormone regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential association between a trinucleotide repeat polymorphism in the androgen receptor gene and personality traits.
- To explore the genetic underpinnings of personality differences.
- To assess if androgen receptor gene length correlates with specific personality dimensions.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 335 healthy Swedish subjects was recruited.
- Personality traits were assessed using the Karolinska Scales of Personality inventory.
- A trinucleotide repeat polymorphism in the androgen receptor gene was analyzed in relation to personality scores.
Main Results:
- Tendencies suggesting a possible relationship between androgen receptor allele length and traits like dominance and aggression were observed (P >= 0.006).
- These observed tendencies did not reach statistical significance after correction for multiple testing.
- No statistically significant association was found between the studied androgen receptor polymorphism and any personality trait.
Conclusions:
- The investigated androgen receptor gene polymorphism does not show a significant association with personality traits in this study population.
- The observed non-significant tendencies warrant further investigation and replication in larger, independent cohorts.
- Future research should explore other genetic factors or environmental influences on personality.
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