Genetic and hormonal sensitivity to threat: testing a serotonin transporter genotype × testosterone interaction.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Striking parallels are observed when comparing the literature on the 5-HTTLPR of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) to the testosterone (T) literature on measures of stress reactivity and neural activity. Short (S) allele carriers and individuals higher in testosterone levels show exaggerated stress responses, amygdala hyperactivity, and reduction of amygdala-prefrontal cortex coupling when exposed to threat.

Methods

Three studies tested the hypothesis that higher T, S carriers would show increased cortisol responses to threat.

Results

Supporting the hypothesis, a T × 5-HTTLPR interaction was obtained across all studies. Threats to status via social exclusion (Study 1), cognitive/perceptual failure (Study 2), and physical competence (Study 3) all produ

SUBMITTER: Josephs RA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3262096 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature