Genetics of personality

CHED 848

Julie K. Monda, william-potter@utulsa.edu1, Gelareh Abulwerdi1, Nolan A. Jenkins, nolan-jenkins@utulsa.edu1, Nicole Porter1, Zach Emel1, Susan Weisenburger2, William T. Potter, william-potter@utulsa.edu1, Robert Sheaff, william-potter@utulsa.edu1, Allan Harkness2, and John McNulty2. (1) Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Tulsa, 600 S College, Tulsa, OK 74104, (2) Department of Psychology, The University of Tulsa, 600 S College, Tulsa, OK 74104
The genetic factors that influence one's personality are being actively researched on many levels. In this study, two common sites of genetic variability which control anxiety and fear responses are investigated. First, the serotonin reuptake transporter (SLC6A4) gene family contains polymorphisms which cause varying levels in the activity of serotonin reuptake from the synaptic cleft. Higher levels of serotonin are thought to reduce anxiety. Second, the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene family controls the activity of methylation and subsequent inactivation of the catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine). Literature suggests that activity levels of COMT influence anxiety. In this study, we correlate an individual's personality differences as evaluated by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2) Personality Psychopathology Five Revised (PSY-5R) to these specific genetic variations.
 

Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Biochemistry
2:00 PM-4:00 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster

Division of Chemical Education

The 235th ACS National Meeting, New Orleans, LA, April 6-10, 2008