Effects of serotonin transporter promoter and BDNF Val66Met genotype on personality traits in a population representative sample of adolescents

Psychiatr Genet. 2011 Oct;21(5):261-4. doi: 10.1097/YPG.0b013e32834371e8.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the 5-HTTLPR and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphisms on self-reported Big Five personality traits and their facets in a population representative sample of adolescents. The sample consisted of both cohorts of the Estonian Children Personality Behaviour and Health Study, and personality data were collected during its second waves. The 5-HTTLPR and BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms were genotyped. The BDNF Val66Met had a significant effect on conscientiousness [F(1,807)=4.32, P=0.038]. We did not find effects of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on the main domains of personality, however, a gene×gene interaction on conscientiousness emerged -BDNF Val66Met Met-allele carriers with the 5-HTTLPR s/s genotype had by far the lowest scores in conscientiousness [F(2,803)=4.38, P=0.012]. In addition, we found genotype effects on some facet scales. In conclusion, the BDNF Val66Met genotype Met-allele carriers have lower conscientiousness, and this effect is increased in the 5-HTTLPR s/s individuals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Alleles
  • Amino Acid Substitution / genetics*
  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / genetics*
  • Female
  • Heterozygote
  • Homozygote
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Personality / genetics*
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide / genetics*
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic / genetics*
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics*

Substances

  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
  • SLC6A4 protein, human
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins