5HTTLPR Genetic Variant and Major Depressive Disorder: A Review.

Caroline Fratelli,Calliandra Silva,Jhon Siqueira,Eduardo Ferreira,Izabel Silva

doi:10.3390/genes11111260

Caroline Fratelli, Calliandra Silva + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/genes11111260

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Journal: Genes	Publication Date: Oct 26, 2020
Citations: 22	License type: CC BY 4.0

Affiliation: Universidade de Brasília

Abstract

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a disease that involves biological, psychological, and social interactions. Studies have shown the importance of genetics contribution to MDD development. The SCL6A4 protein (5HTTLPR) functions transporting serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood and emotion, to the synaptic cleft. Hence, this study seeks, through a literature review, a better comprehension of the 5HTTLPR genetic variant association with MDD. For this purpose, a search was performed on the Virtual Health Library Portal for articles that related 5HTTLPR to MDD. Most of the articles found were conducted in the American continent, with one (1) study implemented in Brazil. 5HTTLPR associations were found regarding changes in the nervous system, pharmacology, and risk factors seen in MDD patients. When verifying the allelic distribution, the S allele had a higher frequency in most of the studies analyzed. Despite not finding a commonality in the different studies, the tremendous genetic variation found demonstrates the MDD complexity. For this reason, further studies in diverse populations should be conducted to assist in the understanding and treatment of the disease.

Highlights

Characterized by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-esteem, altered sleep and appetite, tiredness or lack of concentration, depression is a common mental disorder and one of the foremost causes of disability worldwide [1,2,3,4]
The genetic contribution to Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is approximately 35%, with heredity having the highest percentage. These findings suggest that different genetic variables may contribute to the risk of developing MDD [5,6,7,8]
The research was performed on 26 March 2020, through the Virtual Health Library (VHL) Portal for studies that referred to the 5HTTLPR genetic variant and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Summary

Introduction

Characterized by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-esteem, altered sleep and appetite, tiredness or lack of concentration, depression is a common mental disorder and one of the foremost causes of disability worldwide [1,2,3,4]. The genetic contribution to MDD is approximately 35%, with heredity having the highest percentage. These findings suggest that different genetic variables may contribute to the risk of developing MDD [5,6,7,8].

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