Depression In Medical Students: Gene-Environment Interactions
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2010
School
Psychology
Abstract
This study investigated the interaction of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors in predicting depression and anxiety symptoms in medical students. First-year medical students (n = 141) completed measures of anxiety, depression, hope, and spiritual meaning at three time points during the first year. Buccal samples were utilized to genotype each individual at the s/l variant in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR). A subset (n = 91) completed a measure of recent stressors. Mean levels of depression increased during year one of medical school. Presence of the s/s genotype in the promoter region of the 5-HTT gene was associated with greater increases in depression, but only in association with higher numbers of recent stressors. Spiritual meaning and hope were found to counteract genetic susceptibility to stress-related depressive symptoms in the more vulnerable s/s group.
Publication Title
Annals of Behavioral Science and Medical Education
Volume
16
First Page
8
Last Page
14
Recommended Citation
Rosen, D.,
Mascaro, N.,
Arnau, R. C.,
Escamilla, M.,
Tai-Seale, M.,
Ficht, A.,
Sanders, C.,
Henderson, P.,
Hoang, U.,
Stephenson, K.
(2010). Depression In Medical Students: Gene-Environment Interactions. Annals of Behavioral Science and Medical Education, 16, 8-14.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/17110