The serotonin transporter promoter variant (5-HTTLPR) and childhood adversity are associated with the personality trait openness to experience

摘要

Abstract There is evidence supporting an association between the serotonin-transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) and the Five Factor Model (FFM) of human personality. 5-HTTLPR has also been found to interact with stressful life events to increase risk of psychopathology. In the present study, by taking into account stressful life events in the form of childhood adversity, we examined the association between 5-HTTLPR and FFM traits using an adult Swedish cohort (N = 3112). We found that 5-HTTLPR was significantly associated with openness (to experience). Specifically, homozygote carriers of the short allele had lower levels of openness compared to carriers of the long allele. In addition, childhood adversity was found to influence openness. These findings support a previously reported association of 5-HTTLPR with openness in a younger cohort and may provide insights into the neurobiological basis of human personality. Highlights ? The Five Factor Model (FFM) is the leading model used to describe human personality. ? The understanding of the biological basis of FFM traits still remains elusive. ? 5-HTTLPR is a polymorphism in the promoter of the serotonin transporter gene. ? A link between 5-HTTLPR and FFM traits has previously been found. ? We report an association between 5-HTTLPR and openness in an adult Swedish cohort.