We investigated the association between the 9-repeat allele of the dopamine transporter and angry-impulsive personality traits in a family study with 512 subjects on the molecular genetics of depression and personality.
Direct associations were identified between the dopamine receptor 3 (DRD3) BalI polymorphism and depression; the dopamine receptor 1 (DRD1) and dopamine transporter gene 3' VNTR polymorphisms and aberrant motor behavior; the DRD4 VNTR and sleep disturbances; and the SERT gene VNTR 5HTTLPR and apathy items.
Findings for DAT1 intron8 were also significant for two EMD subscales, generalized anxiety (ηp(2)=.065) and depression (ηp(2)=.059), and for DRD2 rs2283265, depression (ηp(2)=.053).
Serotonin transporter (SERT) and dopamine transporter (DAT) levels differ in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who are in a depressed state in comparison with healthy controls.