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Updated: May 8, 2026
05:53
Candidate Gene Testing in Clinical Cohort Studies with Multiplexed Genotyping and Mass Spectrometry
Published on: June 21, 2018
Association between serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms and childhood asthma
Shirin Farjadian1, Mozhgan Moghtaderi, Bahareh Fakhraei
1Allergy Research Center and.
Summary
This study found no link between serotonin transporter gene variations and mild to moderate asthma in children. Further research into severe asthma may reveal new treatment targets for this common respiratory condition.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease with significant genetic contributions.
- Elevated serotonin levels in asthma patients suggest its involvement in disease pathophysiology.
- The serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) regulates serotonin clearance, with gene polymorphisms affecting its efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms and asthma.
- To explore the role of SERT gene variations in the development and progression of asthma.
Main Methods:
- Assessed serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms (5-HTTLPR, rs35521, STin2.VNTR) using PCR-based methods.
- Compared 100 children with mild to moderate persistent asthma against 100 healthy controls.
- Analyzed allele, genotype, and haplotype frequencies, including subgroup stratification.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in SERT gene allele, genotype, or haplotype frequencies were found between asthma patients and controls.
- No association was observed between SERT gene polymorphisms and asthma when stratified by sex, age, spirometry, family history, smoking, or allergic rhinitis.
- Significant differences in 5-HTTLPR allele (p=0.025) and genotype (p=0.021) distributions were noted between patients with and without atopic dermatitis.
Conclusions:
- Found no association between serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms and mild to moderate persistent asthma.
- Suggests further investigation of SERT gene polymorphisms in severe asthma for potential pharmacogenetic treatment strategies.
- Acknowledges serotonin's indirect influence on asthma via emotional stress during exacerbations.
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