Time Moderates the interplay between 5-HTTLPR and stress on depression risk: gene x environment interaction as dynamic process

Introduction The role of the interaction between serotonin-transporter-linked promoter region (5HTTLPR) and stressful condition in determining vulnerability to depression has been widely investigated. Nevertheless, empirical research provides contrasting findings. Recently, differential susceptibility environment model proposed a conceptual shift respect classical interpretation 5-HTTLPR: viewing short (s) long (l) allele not as associated different traits (respectively vulnerable or not), but plasticity levels (respectively, more less plasticity) and, thus, susceptibilities high low susceptibility). Objectives As 5-HTTLPR is involved plasticity, main goal present study demonstrate that polymorphism stress emerges when assessing its effects according temporal factors dynamic process perspective . Methods We explored our hypothesis, exploiting meta analytic approach. searched PubMed, PsychoINFO, Scopus EMBASE databases 1096 studies were identified screened, resulting 22 be included meta-analyses. applied DerSimonian Laird random-effects estimate crude odds ratios for risk 5HTTLPR we assessed heterogeneity using I² Cochran’s Q statistic. stratified staties (i) duration (i.e., chronic vs. acute stress) (ii) time elapsed end assessment within one year than year). Results When stratifying stress, effect x emerged only case (OR 1.43, 95%IC 1.16-1.77, I²= 52%, Q=25.25; Figure 1), with significant subgroup difference (p=0.004). stratification interval revealed intervals 1.23, 1.03-1-46, 67%, Q=39.35), though no subgroups was found. critical clearly considering stress: confirmed exclusively 1.53, 1.17-2.02, 45%, Q=10.94; 2) found (p=0.01). Image: Image 2: Conclusions Our results show process, producing at time-points, indirectly confirm s-allele carriers are both higher capable recover from depression. Overall, these findings expand current view interplay adding dimension, three-way interaction: gene Disclosure Interest None Declared