Serotonin transporter gene polymorphism in Chinese patients with poststroke depression: a case-control study
Jing Fang1, Weihong Yan, Guo-Xin Jiang
1Department of Neurology, Ruijin Hospital, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 227 South ChongQing Road, Shanghai 200025, China.
Stroke
|March 29, 2011
Summary
The serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 S/S homozygosity is more common in Chinese patients with poststroke depression. This finding suggests a potential genetic link to depression after stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Poststroke depression is a common complication affecting patient recovery.
- The serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 plays a role in mood regulation.
- Genetic predispositions may influence the development of poststroke depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 polymorphism and poststroke depression.
- To compare the distribution of SLC6A4 genotypes in depressed versus nondepressed poststroke patients.
Main Methods:
- A 1:1 case-control study design was employed.
- Patients with cerebral stroke were enrolled over a 1-year period.
- Genotyping was performed for the serotonin transporter-linked promoter region and the rs25531 polymorphism of SLC6A4.
Main Results:
- Out of 367 stroke patients, 57 (15.5%) developed poststroke depression within 1 month.
- The frequency of S/S homozygotes for the SLC6A4 gene was significantly higher in patients with poststroke depression compared to controls (P=0.049).
Conclusions:
- S/S homozygosity of the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 may be associated with an increased risk of poststroke depression.
- These findings suggest a potential genetic marker for identifying individuals at higher risk for poststroke depression in the Chinese population.
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