Related Experiment Videos
Serotonin 2a receptor T102C polymorphism and impaired impulse control
James M Bjork1, F Gerard Moeller, Donald M Dougherty
1Neurobehavioral Research Laboratory and Clinic, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
American Journal of Medical Genetics
|March 29, 2002
Summary
The T102C serotonin (5-HT) 2a receptor polymorphism, specifically the 102C/102C genotype, is linked to impaired impulse control and a history of psychiatric disorders. This suggests it may serve as a marker for behavioral control issues.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatric Genetics
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The T102C polymorphism in the serotonin (5-HT) 2a receptor gene has been inconsistently linked to suicidal ideation or behavior.
- Impulse control deficits may underlie a subset of suicides, suggesting a need to investigate specific genetic associations with this dimension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the T102C serotonin (5-HT) 2a receptor polymorphism and impaired impulse control.
- To determine if the 102C/102C genotype is specifically related to commission errors in a cognitive task.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study compared commission (impulsive) error rates on a Continuous Performance Test (CPT) across different genotypes of the T102C polymorphism.
- Adults were recruited from the general community for genotype and cognitive testing.
Main Results:
- The 102C/102C genotype was associated with a higher incidence of past mood or substance-use disorders.
- Individuals with the 102C/102C genotype made significantly more commission errors on the CPT compared to other genotypes (102T/102C and 102T/102T).
Conclusions:
- Preliminary findings suggest the T102C 5-HT2a receptor polymorphism may be a genetic marker for impaired behavioral control.
- This polymorphism's association with impulse control deficits may be relevant in the context of psychiatric disorder history.