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Possible association between -G308A tumour necrosis factor-alpha gene polymorphism and major depressive disorder in

Tae-Youn Jun1, Chi-Un Pae, Hoon-Han

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Kangnam St Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, 505 Banpo-Dong, Seocho-Gu, Seoul 137-401, Korea.

Psychiatric Genetics
|September 10, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The tumour necrosis factor-alpha gene polymorphism (-G308A) is associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) in Koreans. Individuals with MDD showed a higher frequency of the TNF2 (A) allele, suggesting a potential role in susceptibility.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Psychiatry
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent mental health condition with complex genetic underpinnings.
  • Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine implicated in various biological processes, including neurological functions.
  • Gene polymorphisms, such as the TNF-α -G308A variant, are investigated for their potential contribution to disease susceptibility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between the tumour necrosis factor-alpha (-G308A) gene polymorphism and the risk of developing major depressive disorder (MDD).
  • To analyze genotype and allele frequencies of the TNF-α -G308A polymorphism in Korean patients with MDD and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

  • Case-control study involving 108 patients diagnosed with MDD and 125 healthy controls from the Korean population.
  • Genotyping of the TNF-α -G308A polymorphism was conducted using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Main Results:

  • Significant differences in genotype (P=0.024) and allele (P=0.0125) distributions were observed between MDD patients and controls.
  • The TNF2 (A) allele, a specific variant of the TNF-α gene, was found at a higher frequency in individuals with MDD.
  • These findings suggest a genetic link between the TNF-α -G308A polymorphism and major depressive disorder in the studied population.

Conclusions:

  • The tumour necrosis factor-alpha (-G308A) gene polymorphism may play a role in the susceptibility to major depressive disorder (MDD) within the Korean population.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which this genetic variant influences MDD risk and pathogenesis.

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