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Serotonin and serotonin transporter gene variant in rotating shift workers
Silvia Sookoian1, Carolina Gemma, Tomas Fernández Gianotti
1Cardiologia Molecular Instituto de Investigaciones Medicas, A. Lanari. Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Sleep
|August 19, 2007
Summary
Rotating shift work is associated with lower serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA) levels. The short (S) variant of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) promoter is also linked to shift work, potentially impacting health.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Occupational Health
- Genetics
Background:
- Serotonin (5-HT) plays a role in circadian rhythm regulation.
- Shift work may disrupt biological rhythms and neurotransmitter function.
- The serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) promoter polymorphism influences serotonin levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between serotonin (5-HT), its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA), and the SLC6A4 promoter polymorphism in rotating shift workers.
- To compare these factors between day workers and rotating shift workers.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 683 men, comparing 437 day workers with 246 rotating shift workers.
- Measurement of platelet serotonin (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA) levels.
- Analysis of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR: L/S alleles).
Main Results:
- Rotating shift workers exhibited significantly lower platelet 5-HT and 5HIAA levels compared to day workers.
- A significant difference in SLC6A4 genotype distribution was observed between the two groups, particularly in those with over 60 months of shift work.
- Carriers of the S allele of SLC6A4 showed significantly lower 5HIAA content.
Conclusions:
- Rotating shift work is associated with reduced serotonin and 5HIAA levels.
- The S variant of the SLC6A4 promoter is significantly associated with shift work.
- These findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for managing health issues in shift workers.
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