Serotonin transporter gene status predicts caudate nucleus but not amygdala or hippocampal volumes in older persons with major depression.

摘要: Abstract Background Although the short allele of serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTT) has been linked to increased risk major depression in early adult life, its relationships with late-life and changes subcortical nuclei remain unclear. Methods 5-HTT genotypes (SS, SL, LL) were determined for 45 older persons (mean age = 52.0, sd = 12.8) 16 healthy controls age = 55.8, sd = 10.3). MRI-derived volumes amygdala, hippocampus, caudate putamen by reliable tracing techniques. Results In those depression, was associated smaller nucleus volumes. hippocampal amygdala as compared control subjects, gene status did not predict this reduction size. Limitations The findings are limited number clinical participants. Conclusions Reduced volume patients gene. This regional brain change may be a consequence developmental expression well later vascular or degenerative effects genotype.