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Association of the HTR2C gene and antipsychotic induced weight gain: a meta-analysis

Vincenzo De Luca1, Daniel J Mueller, Andrea de Bartolomeis

  • 1University of Toronto, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Neurogenetics Section, Toronto, ON, Canada. vincenzo_deluca@CAMH.net

The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology
|February 13, 2007
PubMed

Insights

The serotonin 5-HT2C receptor gene (HTR2C) shows a slight association with weight gain. Larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the role of HTR2C pharmacogenetics in clinical psychiatry.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacogenetics
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The serotonin 5-HT2C receptor (HTR2C) is implicated in regulating feeding behavior.
  • HTR2C gene knockout mice exhibit obesity, and some antipsychotics targeting this receptor can cause weight gain.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between the HTR2C gene and weight gain.
  • To analyze the -759C/T promoter polymorphism (rs3813929) using meta-analytical techniques.

Main Methods:

  • Meta-analysis of published studies on the HTR2C -759C/T polymorphism and weight gain.
  • Investigation of potential moderation by ancestry (Caucasian vs. Asian) and clinical factors.

Main Results:

  • A slight association was found between the HTR2C -759C/T polymorphism and weight gain.
  • Significant heterogeneity was observed between studies, suggesting moderating factors.

Conclusions:

  • The meta-analysis supports a role for HTR2C in weight gain.
  • Larger sample sizes are crucial for definitively establishing the clinical psychiatric relevance of HTR2C pharmacogenetics.

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