Exploring the Relationship Between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Haplotype Variants, Personality, and Nicotine...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Psychology

Background:

• Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) influences nicotine behaviors, cravings, and withdrawal.
• Sex, BDNF variants, personality, and anxiety are known factors in nicotine use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the association of BDNF gene variants (rs6265, rs10767664, rs2030323), personality traits, and anxiety with nicotine use in women.
• To explore understudied BDNF variants (rs10767664, rs2030323) in relation to addictive behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Recruited 239 female participants (112 cigarette users, 127 never-smokers).
• Assessed personality using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory and anxiety with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.
• Genotyped BDNF polymorphisms rs6265, rs10767664, and rs2030323 using real-time PCR.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in BDNF genotype or allele distribution between users and non-users.
• Nicotine users scored significantly lower on Agreeableness and Conscientiousness compared to never-smokers.
• Significant linkage disequilibrium observed between all three analyzed BDNF variants, but no significant haplotype associations.

Conclusions:

• Investigated BDNF polymorphisms (rs6265, rs10767664, rs2030323) were not associated with nicotine use in women.
• Lower Agreeableness and Conscientiousness scores in nicotine users suggest personality traits play a significant role.
• Findings support the self-medication hypothesis and highlight the need to consider psychological factors in public health initiatives for women's nicotine use.