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

Lina Wang1,2, Miao Wang3, Chaoben Zhao3

  • 1Department of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, Shandong, China.

BMC Psychiatry
|February 28, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Genetic variations in the HTR3B gene are linked to depression and executive dysfunction. The A allele of rs1176744 may increase depression risk, while C alleles offer protection.

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.
Abstract

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