Polymorphisms in BDNF (Val66Met) and 5-HTTLPR, morning cortisol and subsequent depression in at-risk adolescents.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is increasing evidence for genetic effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis system. More than one gene is likely to moderate corticoid-mediated activity.

Aims

To investigate whether the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphism (rs6265, Val66Met) is associated with morning waking salivary cortisol and moderates the corticoid-mediated risk for subsequent depressive episode onset independently of the known effects of 5-HTTLPR (the serotonin transporter gene promoter).

Method

High-risk adolescents (n = 401) were genotyped for Val66Met BDNF and 5-HTTLPR. Salivary samples were obtained on four consecutive school days within 1 h of waking. There were 365 (91%) remaining participants reassessed at 12 months for episodes of psychiatric disorder

SUBMITTER: Goodyer IM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2966502 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature