A Functional Serotonin Transporter Gene Polymorphism and Depressive Effects Associated With Interferon-alpha Treatment

作者：Pierucci Lagha Amira; Covault Jonathan; Bonkovsky Herbert L; Feinn Richard; Abreu Christine; Sterling Richard K; Fontana Robert J; Kranzler Henry R^*

来源：Psychosomatics, 2010, 51(2): 137-148.

Background: Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) treatment frequently induces depression, potentially leading to early dose reductions or a shorter duration of treatment, which can adversely affect outcomes, including quality of life. Objective: Defining relevant risk factors for IFN-alpha-induced depression is essential in order to identify prophylactic treatment strategies. Method: The authors examined whether a functional polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) in the gene encoding the serotonin transporter moderates IFN-alpha-induced depressive symptoms in 1,015 patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) receiving pegylated IFN-alpha and ribavirin. Depressive symptoms were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 20 weeks of treatment. Results: Depression symptoms increased during antiviral treatment; 5-HTTLPR genotype moderated IFN-alpha-induced depression symptoms in both non-Hispanic Caucasians and Hispanic patients, although the opposite risk allele was associated with depression in the two populations. Conclusion: 5-HTTLPR may moderate risk for the development of depressive symptoms during IFN-alpha therapy for CHC in a population-specific manner. (Psychosomatics 2010; 51:137-148)

• 出版日期2010-4