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SNAP-25 gene polymorphisms and weight gain in schizophrenic patients
Richard Musil1, Ilja Spellmann, Michael Riedel
1Psychiatric Clinic of University Munich, Nussbaumstrasse 7, 80336 Munich, Germany. Richard.musil@med.uni-muenchen.de
Journal of Psychiatric Research
|January 15, 2008
Summary
Genetic variations in the synaptosomal-associated protein of 25kDa (SNAP-25) gene are linked to weight gain in patients taking atypical antipsychotics. This study partly replicates previous findings on SNAP-25 polymorphisms and antipsychotic-induced weight changes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacogenetics
- Genetics
Background:
- Atypical antipsychotics can cause significant weight gain, a serious side effect impacting patient adherence and health.
- Genetic factors influence appetite regulation and may predispose individuals to antipsychotic-induced weight gain.
- Previous research suggested a link between synaptosomal-associated protein of 25kDa (SNAP-25) gene polymorphisms and weight changes during antipsychotic treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between three specific polymorphisms in the SNAP-25 gene (MnlI, TaiI, and DdelI) and weight gain in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics.
- To replicate preliminary findings on the impact of SNAP-25 gene polymorphisms on clinical response and weight gain.
- To explore the relationship between these SNAP-25 polymorphisms and baseline serum triglyceride levels.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of 162 schizophrenic patients on atypical antipsychotic monotherapy and 312 healthy controls for three SNAP-25 polymorphisms using PCR.
- Weekly assessment of Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores and body weight for at least five weeks.
- Analysis of associations between SNAP-25 polymorphisms, weight gain, and baseline serum triglyceride levels.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were found between the TaiI and MnlI SNAP-25 polymorphisms and baseline serum triglyceride levels.
- The DdelI SNAP-25 polymorphism showed a significant association with antipsychotic-induced weight gain.
- These findings provide partial replication of previous research linking SNAP-25 gene variations to weight changes.
Conclusions:
- Specific polymorphisms in the SNAP-25 gene, particularly DdelI, are associated with weight gain in patients receiving atypical antipsychotics.
- The study partially confirms the role of SNAP-25 gene variations in modulating weight gain during antipsychotic therapy.
- These findings underscore the potential of pharmacogenetics in predicting and managing antipsychotic-induced weight gain.
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