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Association analysis of Rgs7 variants with panic disorder
Christa Hohoff1, Anna Neumann, Katharina Domschke
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany. hohoffch@uni-muenster.de
Journal of Neural Transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996)
|September 3, 2008
Summary
Investigating regulator of G-protein signaling 7 (Rgs7) in panic disorder (PD), this study found a minor, gender-specific association. Rgs7 variants may offer a protective effect against PD, particularly in females with agoraphobia.
Area of Science:
- Neurogenetics
- Psychiatric Disorders
Background:
- Previous research identified Regulator of G-protein Signaling 2 (Rgs2) involvement in panic disorder (PD) pathogenesis.
- Regulator of G-protein Signaling 7 (Rgs7) is a candidate gene within the functionally related Rgs family.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of Rgs7 gene variants in the development of panic disorder (PD).
- To explore gender-specific effects of Rgs7 on PD, especially with comorbid agoraphobia (PDAgP).
Main Methods:
- A German case-control study compared 224 PD patients with 224 matched controls.
- Seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within and flanking the Rgs7 gene were genotyped.
- Haplotype analysis was performed to assess genetic associations.
Main Results:
- An intronic SNP3 (rs11805657) and its haplotypes showed association with PD, particularly PDAgP.
- This association was predominantly observed in the female subgroup.
- The rare A-allele of SNP3 was underrepresented in patients, suggesting a protective effect (approx. 2-fold reduced risk).
Conclusions:
- Rgs7 gene variants do not appear to play a major role in the pathogenesis of PD.
- A minor, gender-specific effect of Rgs7 on PD, especially PDAgP, is supported by the findings.
- The A-allele of SNP3 may confer a protective effect against PD development in females.
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