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Genetic variability in the oxytocin system is linked to individual differences in cuddliness among human infants

Tobias Grossmann1, Merle Fairhurst2

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, USA.

Psychoneuroendocrinology
|October 19, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Genetic variations in the oxytocin system influence infant cuddliness. Specific CD38 gene variants are linked to infant

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Pleasant touch is crucial for infant social development, emotional bonding, and caregiver interaction.
  • The oxytocin system is hypothesized to mediate the positive effects of touch on infant development.
  • Limited understanding exists regarding the oxytocin system's role in infant responses to pleasant touch.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between genetic variations in the oxytocin system and infant cuddliness.
  • To operationalize infant cuddliness as parent-reported behaviors indicating the desire for and enjoyment of caregiver touch.

Main Methods:

  • Analyzed genetic variability in the oxytocin system using a polymorphism in the CD38 gene (rs3796863) in 82 infants.
  • Utilized parent-reported questionnaires to assess infant cuddliness, reflecting motivation for and enjoyment of touch.

Main Results:

  • A specific CD38 genotype, previously linked to increased oxytocin release in adults, was associated with higher reported infant cuddliness.
  • Conversely, a CD38 genotype associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and reduced oxytocin release in adults correlated with lower infant cuddliness.
  • These findings suggest a link between genetic variation in the oxytocin system and individual differences in infant touch-seeking behaviors.

Conclusions:

  • Genetic variations in the oxytocin system, specifically within the CD38 gene, are linked to individual differences in infant cuddliness from early development.
  • This research provides novel insights into the neurohormonal underpinnings of pleasant touch perception and social bonding in infancy.
  • The findings support the hypothesis that the oxytocin system plays a significant role in mediating the social and emotional benefits of touch during early human development.

Keywords:
CD38Infant temperamentOxytocinTouch

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