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Oxytocin gene polymorphisms influence human dopaminergic function in a sex-dependent manner
Tiffany M Love1, Mary-Anne Enoch, Colin A Hodgkinson
1Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0720, USA. tiflove@umich.edu
Biological Psychiatry
|March 16, 2012
Summary
Genetic variations in the oxytocin gene (OXT) influence dopamine release during stress. This study found specific OXT gene variations in women are linked to increased dopamine release and higher anxiety levels.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychology
Background:
- Oxytocin (OXT) plays roles in social behavior and is recognized for its pain-reducing and anxiety-reducing effects.
- These effects may involve interactions with the dopamine system.
- Genetic variations in the OXT gene could explain differences in dopamine-related stress responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between oxytocin gene (OXT) variation and stress-induced dopaminergic neurotransmission in healthy individuals.
- To understand how OXT genetic variability contributes to individual differences in stress response.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-five healthy young volunteers underwent [¹¹C]raclopride positron emission tomography during a pain and emotional stressor and a control state.
- Genotyping of four haplotype tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms near the OXT gene.
- Assessment of pain, affect, anxiety, well-being, and interpersonal attachment.
Main Results:
- Female carriers of the rs4813625 C allele showed greater stress-induced dopamine release compared to female GG homozygotes.
- No significant differences were observed in males.
- Female rs4813625 C allele carriers reported higher attachment and trait anxiety, and lower emotional well-being.
Conclusions:
- Oxytocin gene (OXT) variability is associated with individual differences in dopaminergic responses to stress.
- These stress-related dopamine responses are linked to anxiety traits and emotional well-being in women.
- Attachment anxiety and style may be influenced by OXT gene variations affecting stress responses.
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