Type of Document	Thesis
Author	Brown, Jessica Suzanne
Author's Email Address	brown@psy.fsu.edu
URN	etd-11142003-232747
Title	The Serotonin Transporter Gene's Association With Mental Disorders: A Meta Analysis
Degree	Master of Science
Department	Psychology, Department of
Advisory Committee	Advisor Name Title Thomas E. Joiner Committee Chair Frank Johnson Committee Member Richard Wagner Committee Member
Keywords	Serotonin Transporter Gene Meta Analysis
Date of Defense	2003-08-13
Availability	unrestricted
Abstract In recent years, abnormalities in serotonin functioning have been detected in individuals with a variety of mental illnesses. One gene that helps regulate serotonergic function, the serotonin transporter gene, has been identified and numerous studies have been conducted in an attempt to link this gene to mental illnesses. This meta-analysis takes these often contradictory findings and attempts to draw preliminary conclusions regarding the influence of this gene on mental illness. It was concluded that individuals with major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder are more likely to carry the s/s genotype but not the s allele. Other disorders, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and alcohol abuse show no consistent relationship with this gene. Finally, current data suggest a relationship between the serotonin transporter gene and disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, but further experimental studies are necessary before firm conclusions can be drawn.
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