Examining associations between disordered eating and serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Psychiatry
• Neuroscience

Background:

• The serotonin system influences mood and appetite, making the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) a focus for eating pathology research.
• Previous studies often examined only one SLC6A4 polymorphism (5-HTTLPR), limiting comprehensive genetic analysis of eating disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in and around the SLC6A4 gene and disordered eating.
• To provide a more thorough genetic analysis of eating pathology by examining seven SLC6A4 polymorphisms.

Main Methods:

• Family-based association tests were performed on 135 families from the Colorado Center for Antisocial Drug Dependence.
• Phenotypic data from female twins and siblings were analyzed for two disordered eating characteristics: weight/shape concerns/behaviors (WSCB) and binge eating (BE).

Main Results:

• No statistically significant associations were detected between any of the seven SLC6A4 genetic variants and the assessed disordered eating characteristics.
• The study found no evidence linking specific SLC6A4 polymorphisms to WSCB or BE in the studied population.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest that polymorphisms within and near the SLC6A4 gene, including 5-HTTLPR, are unlikely to be significant genetic risk factors for disordered eating.
• Further research may be needed to explore other genetic or environmental factors contributing to the development of eating pathology.