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Published on: December 15, 2023
Interaction between brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met polymorphism and recent negative stressor in harm
Seog Ju Kim1, Seong-Jin Cho, Ha Min Jang
1Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea.
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met gene variant interacts with life stress. Individuals with the BDNF Val/Val genotype showed increased harm avoidance when exposed to recent negative stressors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Controversial findings exist regarding the association between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism and anxiety-related traits like harm avoidance (HA).
- Investigating gene-environment interactions is crucial for understanding complex traits like anxiety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the interaction between BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and negative life stressors on harm avoidance (HA).
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism in 391 Korean adults.
- Assessment of harm avoidance (HA) using the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI).
- Evaluation of recent negative life stressors via structured interviews and depression symptoms using the CES-D scale.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in TCI scores, major depressive disorder prevalence, or CES-D scores were found among BDNF genotypes.
- Subjects with recent negative stressors exhibited higher rates of major depressive episodes and elevated CES-D scores.
- A significant interaction was observed between BDNF genotype and negative life stressors, specifically in relation to HA (p = 0.02).
- Individuals with the Val/Val genotype demonstrated higher HA when experiencing recent negative stressors.
Conclusions:
- The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism may influence harm avoidance (HA) through its interaction with recent negative life experiences.
- This finding highlights the role of gene-environment interactions in shaping anxiety-related traits.
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