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Published on: February 26, 2012
Polymorphisms in the 5-HTTLPR gene mediate storage capacity of visual working memory
David E Anderson1, Theodore A Bell, Edward Awh
1Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA. danders3@uoregon.edu
Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience
|February 16, 2012
Summary
Individuals with the long/long variant of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) show reduced working memory (WM) capacity compared to those with the short variant. This genetic difference impacts cognitive storage abilities.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Behavioral Genetics
Background:
- Working memory (WM) is crucial for various cognitive functions, including perception and intelligence.
- The serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) gene variant has been linked to cognitive performance.
- Previous research suggests the short (s) allele of 5-HTTLPR is associated with better cognitive outcomes than the long (l) allele.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic influence of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on the storage capacity of working memory.
- To test the hypothesis that individuals with the l/l genotype have lower WM capacity than s/s and s/l genotypes.
Main Methods:
- A change detection task was employed to measure WM capacity.
- Participants were required to remember the color and spatial location of briefly presented squares.
- Genotyping for the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism was performed.
Main Results:
- WM capacity was similar between individuals with s/s and s/l genotypes.
- Individuals with the s/s and s/l genotypes demonstrated significantly better WM performance than those with the l/l genotype.
- The findings support the prediction that the l/l genotype is associated with reduced WM storage capacity.
Conclusions:
- Variation in the 5-HTTLPR gene significantly influences individual differences in working memory storage capacity.
- The results suggest a genetic basis for cognitive limitations in WM.
- Understanding the serotonin transporter system's role may elucidate mechanisms underlying WM capacity variations.
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