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CD38 is associated with communal behavior, partner perceptions, affect and relationship adjustment in romantic
Gentiana Sadikaj1, D S Moskowitz1, David C Zuroff1
1Department of Psychology, McGill University, 2001 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, QC, H3A 1G1, Canada.
Scientific Reports
|August 22, 2020
Summary
Genetic variations in CD38 influence romantic relationship dynamics. Individuals with the CC allele of rs3796863 exhibit more communal behaviors and higher relationship adjustment, supporting oxytocin
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Behavioral Genetics
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- Close relationships are vital for human survival, suggesting evolved biological mechanisms for their initiation and maintenance.
- The neuropeptide oxytocin is implicated in social bonding and attachment, with research in rodents linking CD38 gene variation to oxytocin secretion and attachment behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if genetic variation in the CD38 gene predicts romantic relationship dynamics in daily life.
- To examine the association between a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in CD38 (rs3796863) and relationship adjustment, communal behaviors, and affect.
Main Methods:
- Community couples (N=222 individuals from 111 couples) participated in a 20-day event-contingent recording (ECR) study.
- Participants reported daily social behavior, partner's behavior perception, and affect during interactions.
- Genotyping for the CD38 rs3796863 SNP was performed, and relationship adjustment measures were collected.
Main Results:
- Individuals with the CC allele of rs3796863 reported significantly higher levels of communal behavior (e.g., affection) and overall relationship adjustment.
- The CC allele was associated with lower negative affect and reduced feelings of insecurity during interactions with a romantic partner.
- Importantly, a partner's rs3796863 SNP variation predicted an individual's relationship outcomes independently of their own genotype.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variation in CD38, specifically the rs3796863 SNP, plays a role in shaping daily romantic relationship dynamics and adjustment.
- These findings highlight the influence of oxytocin-related genetic factors on interpersonal behaviors crucial for maintaining close relationships.
- The study underscores the interconnectedness of genetic predispositions and relational experiences in romantic partnerships.
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