Serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) variation and sensory processing sensitivity-Comparison with other anxiety-related temperamental dimensions

Mol Genet Genomic Med. 2020 Aug;8(8):e1352. doi: 10.1002/mgg3.1352. Epub 2020 Jun 15.

Abstract

Background: The short (s) allele of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism in the promoter region of the human serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene SLC6A4 has previously been associated with anxiety-related personality dimensions. However, this relationship has not been confirmed in all studies and may be modified by environmental circumstances and/or psychiatric illness. This study examined whether the temperamental trait sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), characterized by increased responsivity to environmental stimuli, is related to 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 genotype.

Methods: 5-HTTLPR and rs25531 genotypes, level of SPS, self-reported Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R) and Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) personality profiles, and symptoms of psychological distress (SCL-90R Global Severity Index) were determined for 405 healthy volunteers.

Results: Sensory processing sensitivity was highly correlated with the anxiety-related dimensions of the NEO-PI-R and the TCI models of personality, Neuroticism, and Harm Avoidance, respectively. However, the level of SPS was not associated with the combined 5-HTTLPR and rs25531 s'/s' genotype. Neuroticism and Harm Avoidance were also not associated with 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 s'/s' genotype. Correcting for symptoms of psychological distress had no effect on the relationships between personality and genotype.

Conclusion: The level of SPS was not associated with serotonin transporter gene variation. Further, combined 5-HTTLPR and rs25531 genotype was not associated with other anxiety-related dimensions.

Keywords: Harm Avoidance; Neuroticism; personality; serotonin; temperament.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Avoidance Learning
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuroticism*
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide*
  • Sensory Thresholds
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics*
  • Temperament*

Substances

  • SLC6A4 protein, human
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins