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Association between depressed mood in the elderly and a 5-HTR2A gene variant
1Department of Medical Epidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. martja@mbox.ki.se
Summary
A specific gene variant in the serotonin system (5-HTR2A) is linked to depressed mood in elderly individuals, particularly males. The serotonin transporter gene showed no association in this population.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Depressed mood is a significant concern in the elderly population.
- The serotonin system plays a crucial role in mood regulation.
- Genetic factors are increasingly recognized as contributors to mood disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the serotonin system and depressed mood in the elderly.
- To examine candidate SNPs in the 5-HTR2A gene promoter and the serotonin transporter gene.
Main Methods:
- A population-based Swedish twin sample (N=1,592, mean age=73) was utilized.
- DNA genotyping was performed using Pyrosequencing.
- Statistical analyses were conducted to assess associations between genotypes and depressed mood, with subgroup analysis by gender.
Main Results:
- An association was found between the 5-HTR2A gene promoter polymorphism (A/A genotype) and depressed mood in the total sample (OR: 1.5, CI: 1.1-2.1).
- A significant association was observed for males with the A/A genotype (OR: 2.4, CI: 1.4-4.4), but not for females.
- No association was found between the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism and depressed mood.
Conclusions:
- The 5-HTR2A gene promoter polymorphism may contribute to depressed mood in the elderly, with a stronger effect in males.
- These findings suggest potential sex-specific genetic mechanisms underlying depression in older adults.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of serotonin system genetics in geriatric depression.