Publications [#276222] of Ilene C. Siegler

Journal Articles

1. Brummett, BH; Krystal, AD; Siegler, IC; Kuhn, C; Surwit, RS; Züchner, S; Ashley-Koch, A; Barefoot, JC; Williams, RB (2007). Associations of a regulatory polymorphism of monoamine oxidase-A gene promoter (MAOA-uVNTR) with symptoms of depression and sleep quality.. Psychosom Med, 69(5), 396-401. [17585061], [doi]
   (last updated on 2024/01/01)

   Abstract:
   OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationships among the variable number of tandem repeats in the monoamine oxidase-A linked polymorphic region allelic variation (MAOA-uVNTR) and the symptoms of depression and sleep quality. The monoamine oxidase-A (MAOA) gene, which plays a vital role in degradation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, contains a polymorphism in its promoter region (MAOA-uVNTR) that affects transcriptional efficiency. MAOA-uVNTR genotype has been associated with both psychological and physical measures. METHODS: The sample consisted of 74 males enrolled in a case/control study of caregivers for relatives with dementia. Age- and race-adjusted linear regression models were used to examine the association between low versus high MAOA-uVNTR activity alleles, symptoms of depression (Center for Epidemiological Studies of Depression), and sleep quality ratings (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). RESULTS: MAOA-uVNTR alleles associated with less transcriptional activity were related to increased symptoms of depression (p < .04; Cohen's d = 0.52) and poorer sleep quality (p < .04; Cohen's d = 0.31). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with less active MAOA-uVNTR alleles may be at increased risk for depressive symptoms and poor sleep.