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MAOB rs3027452 Modifies Mood Improvement After Tryptophan Supplementation
Irene Gonzalez1, Rocio Polvillo1,2, Maximiliano Ruiz-Galdon1
1Department of Surgery, Biochemistry and Immunology School of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain.
Tryptophan supplementation impacts mood unevenly in healthy individuals. Genetic variations, specifically in MAOB rs3027452, influence its efficacy for mood improvement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Serotonin, synthesized from tryptophan, regulates mood, appetite, and behavior.
- Serotonin system dysfunction is linked to mood disorders.
- Tryptophan supplementation is proposed for mood disorders, but responses vary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of tryptophan supplementation on mood in healthy subjects.
- To explore the role of genetic variations in tryptophan's mood-altering effects.
Main Methods:
- 138 healthy subjects received daily 1g tryptophan or placebo.
- Mood was assessed using Goldberg's General Health Questionnaire and the Profile of Mood States Questionnaire.
- Genotyping was performed for MAOB (rs3027452) and other relevant gene variants.
Main Results:
- MAOB rs3027452 polymorphism was significantly associated with tryptophan supplementation efficacy.
- This association was observed in depression subscales of both mood questionnaires (p<0.01).
Conclusions:
- Tryptophan supplementation demonstrates variable effects on mood improvement in the general population.
- Genetic factors, particularly MAOB rs3027452, play a role in individual responses to tryptophan.
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