ASSOCIATION OF PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS WITH DOPAMINE RECEPTOR D4 (DRD4), DAT GENE POLYMORPHISM AND CARDIOVASCULAR INCIDENCE RISK

Anxiety is considered as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Relationships between genetic markers of anxiety and risk of developing CVD remain unknown.

Aim. The objectives of the study were to determine trait anxiety prevalence; to find associations between trait anxiety and VNTR polymorphisms in the DRD4 and DAT genes; and to calculate Hazard retio (HR) for developing arterial hypertension (AH), myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke.

Material and methods. Representative sample of 25-64-year-old males (n=2149) was examined in three screening studies in a framework of the WHO MONICA program and MONICA-psychosocial subprogram in Novosibirsk in 1984, 1988, and 1994. All first time MI, AH, and stroke events were registered from 1984 to 2008. Genotyping of VNTR polymorphism was performed for DRD4 and DAT genes. Anxiety levels were evaluated by using the Spielberger’s test. Stratified Cox proportional regression model was used for Hazard ratio (HR) estimation.

Results. High level of anxiety (HLA) in an open male population was 50,9%. The DRD4 genotype 4/6 and DAT genotype 9/9 were significantly associated with HLA. HLA increased CVD risk. HR for developing AH and stroke was maximal during the first five years of the study, whereas maximal risk of developing MI was found for 10-year period.

Conclusion. Prevalence of HLA in an open 25-64-year-old male population in Novosibirsk was high. Rates of HLA were significantly associated with certain VNTR polymorphisms in the DRD4 and DAT genes. HLA were associated with increased risk of developing CVD.

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