Psychiatrist Chris Aiken, MD, and PMHNP Kellie Newsome discuss the interplay between genetics and environmental factors in depression, focusing on the serotonin transporter gene. They explore the impact of serotonin genes on antidepressant response rates, ethnic variations, and traits like stress resilience. The podcast also highlights the correlation between genotype and sensory information processing in babies and the role of the CERT gene in treatment response for PTSD.
The serotonin transporter gene interacts with major life stressors to impact depression risk.
Genetic diversity in response to SSRIs varies across populations, with potential evolutionary advantages in certain groups.
Deep dives
Exploring the Caspi Study on the Interaction of Genetics and Environment in Depression Development
The podcast delves into psychologist Avshalam Kaspe's groundbreaking 2003 study that examined the interaction between genetics and environment in the development of depression. Dr. Caspi focused on the serotonin transporter gene, which has short (SS) and long (LL) alleles. The study revealed that individuals with the short arm SS allele faced a higher risk of depression only in the presence of major life stressors, while those with the long arm LL allele remained resilient. This highlighted the importance of the gene-environment interaction in shaping mental health.
Clinical Implications of the Serotonin Transporter Gene in Antidepressant Therapy
The podcast discusses the practical clinical implications of the serotonin transporter gene, particularly in the context of antidepressant therapy. Initial studies suggested that individuals with the short arm SS allele had less favorable responses to SSRIs and more side effects compared to those with the long arm LL allele. However, further research indicated varied and inconclusive results regarding the gene's impact on antidepressant therapy, leading to limited clinical recommendations based solely on the gene.
Insights into the Genetic Variability of the Serotonin Transporter Gene in Different Populations
The podcast explores the genetic diversity of the serotonin transporter gene across different populations, highlighting variations in response to SSRIs based on ethnicity. Meta-analyses showed conflicting results in Caucasian and Asian populations, with different studies suggesting the LL allele as more favorable in Asians. The podcast also touches on the speculative reasons behind the prevalence of the SS genotype in Asian populations, emphasizing potential evolutionary advantages of the gene configuration.
As we delved into Carl Jung's archetype of the wounded healer last Monday, it reminded us of something we learned about the serotonin transporter gene. Has modern genetics discovered a pathway to the archetype? You be the judge in this throwback to a 2021 episode.
Chris Aiken, MD and Kellie Newsome, PMHNP have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.
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