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The 5-HTTPR*S/*L polymorphism and aggressive behavior in Alzheimer disease
D L Sukonick1, B G Pollock, R A Sweet
1Division of Geriatrics and Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
Archives of Neurology
|September 18, 2001
Summary
The long variant (L) of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTPR) and the L/L genotype are linked to increased aggressive behavior in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. This genetic factor may predispose individuals to developing aggression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Aggressive behavior in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with serotonin neurotransmission dysfunction.
- The long variant (L) of the serotonin transporter promoter region (5-HTTPR) polymorphism is linked to increased serotonin transporter expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the 5-HTTPR L/L genotype and L allele with aggressive symptoms in AD patients.
- To determine if specific 5-HTTPR genotypes increase the risk of aggression in Alzheimer's disease.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted.
- Participants included 58 AD patients with aggression and 79 non-aggressive AD patients.
- Genotyping for the 5-HTTPR polymorphism and allele frequency analysis were performed.
Main Results:
- The 5-HTTPR L/L genotype showed a significant association with aggression in AD patients (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.2-6.5).
- Increased frequency of the 5-HTTPR L allele was also observed in aggressive AD patients.
Conclusions:
- The 5-HTTPR L allele and L/L genotype may represent a genetic predisposition to aggressive behavior in Alzheimer's disease.
- These findings highlight the role of serotonin transporter genetics in AD-related aggression.