The C(-1019)G 5-HT1A promoter polymorphism and personality traits: no evidence for significant association in alcoholic patients

The 5HT1A receptor is one of at least 14 different receptors for serotonin, which has a role in moderating several brain functions and may be involved in the etiology of several psychiatric disorders. The C(-1019)G 5-HT1A promoter polymorphism was reported to be associated with major depression, depression related personality traits and suicide in various samples. It was hypothesized that the G(-1019) allele depresses 5-HT1A autoreceptor expression and thus reduces serotonergic neurotransmission, predisposing allele carriers to depressive personality traits and suicidal behavior. The aim of this study was to replicate previous findings in a sample of 200 alcohol-dependent individuals. Personality traits were evaluated using the NEO FFI and the TCI. History of suicidal behavior was assessed by a standardized semi-structured interview (SSAGA). No significant differences across 5-HT1A C(-1019)G genotype groups were found for TCI temperament and character traits and for NEO FFI temperament scales. No association was detected between this genetic variant and history of suicide attempts. These result do not support a role of C(-1019)G 5-HT1A promoter polymorphism in the disposition of personality traits like harm avoidance, self directedness or neuroticism and do not confirm previous research-results reporting an involvement of the G allele in the development of temperament and character traits or suicidal behavior.