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Genetic variability within the S100B gene influences the personality trait self-directedness
Petra Suchankova1, Fariba Baghaei, Roland Rosmond
1Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology at the Sahlgrenska Academy, Department of Pharmacology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. petra.suchankova@pharm.gu.se
Psychoneuroendocrinology
|November 30, 2010
Summary
Genetic variations in the S100B gene influence personality traits, specifically self-directedness in men. This suggests the S100B gene
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and Genetics
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- S100B protein is an indicator of brain injury and linked to psychiatric disorders.
- Genetic variations in S100B have been associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if S100B gene variations affect normal personality dimensions.
- To explore the relationship between S100B polymorphisms and personality traits.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of two S100B single nucleotide polymorphisms (2757C>G and 5748C>T) in population-based cohorts.
- Personality assessment using the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI).
- Analysis of polymorphisms in relation to TCI dimensions in adult men and women.
Main Results:
- The 2757C>G polymorphism in the S100B gene significantly influenced self-directedness in men.
- A similar trend was observed in women, but did not reach statistical significance.
- The 5748C>T polymorphism was strongly associated with self-directedness in men.
Conclusions:
- The S100B gene may play a role in normal behavioral processes, not just pathological brain conditions.
- Self-directedness, a measure of adaptive and coping strategies, is linked to mental health.
- These findings suggest a potential genetic basis for individual differences in personality.
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