Effects of serotonin transporter promoter and BDNF Val66Met genotype on personality traits in a population representative sample of adolescents

• The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the 5-HTTLPR and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphisms on self-reported Big Five personality traits and their facets in a population representative sample of adolescents. The sample consisted of both cohorts of the Estonian Children Personality Behaviour and Health Study, and personality data were collected during its second waves. The 5-HTTLPR and BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms were genotyped. The BDNF Val66Met had a significant effect on conscientiousness [F(1,807) = 4.32, P = 0.038]. We did not find effects of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism on the main domains of personality, however, a gene x gene interaction on conscientiousness emerged -BDNF Val66Met Met-allele carriers with the 5-HTTLPR s/s genotype had by far the lowest scores in conscientiousness [F(2,803) = 4.38, P = 0.012]. In addition, we found genotype effects on some facet scales. In conclusion, the BDNF Val66Met genotype Met-allele carriers have lower conscientiousness, and this effect is increased in the 5-HTTLPR s/s individuals.

Nyckelord

5-HTTLPR

BDNF Val66Met

five-factor model

gene x gene interaction

personality

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