Enhancing the gene-environment interaction framework through a quasi-experimental research design: evidence from differential responses to September 11.

ABSTRACT: This article uses a gene-environment interaction framework to examine the differential responses to an objective external stressor based on genetic variation in the production of depressive symptoms. This article advances the literature by utilizing a quasi-experimental environmental exposure design, as well as a regression discontinuity design, to control for seasonal trends, which limit the potential for gene-environment correlation and allow stronger causal claims. Replications are attempted for two prominent genes (5-HTT and MAOA), and three additional genes are explored (DRD2, DRD4, and DAT1). This article provides evidence of a main effect of 9/11 on reports of feelings of sadness and fails to replicate a common finding of interaction using 5-HTT but does show support for interaction

SUBMITTER: Fletcher JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6714568 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature