Association of HTR3B gene polymorphisms with depression and its executive dysfunction: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Previous research indicates a link between the HTR3B gene and depression.
• This study explores the association between HTR3B gene polymorphisms and depression with executive dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between HTR3B gene polymorphisms and depression.
• To examine the impact of these polymorphisms on executive function in a Chinese Han population.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of six Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) sites in the HTR3B gene (rs10789970, rs4938056, rs12421126, rs1176744, rs2276305, rs12795805) in 229 patients with depressive disorder and 202 healthy controls.
• Assessment of depression severity using the 24-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD).
• Evaluation of executive function through cognitive tests including Maze Test, Symbolic Coding Test, Spatial Span Inverse Order Test, Linking Test, and Emotional Management Test.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in genotypic and allelic distributions of rs1176744 were observed between patients and controls (P < 0.01).
• The A allele of rs1176744 was positively correlated with depression, with higher A allele carrier frequency in patients.
• Carriers of the A allele at rs1176744 showed lower Spatial Span Inverse Order Test scores, while carriers of C alleles at rs1176744 and rs12795805 had higher scores.

Conclusions:

• HTR3B gene polymorphisms may be associated with depression in the Chinese Han population.
• The A allele of rs1176744 is potentially linked to increased risk for depression and executive dysfunction.
• C alleles at rs1176744 and rs12795805 may act as protective factors against executive dysfunction in depressed patients.