This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. The effects of serotonin pathway gene variants on the expression of self-injurious behavior (SIB) are not well understood. We investigated the role of the serotonin transporter (5HTTLPR) and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA-LPR) gene promoter polymorphisms on the expression of SIB in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta). Rates of SIB were based on 350 5-min behavioral observations per animal collected over a 5-year period. Separate univariate analyses of variance were performed for 5HTTLPR and MAOA-LPR genotypes. Subjects homozygous for the long-allele of 5HTTLPR and/or the low-activity MAOA-LPR allele demonstrated significantly higher levels of SIB, regardless of early rearing experience (i.e., mother-reared or nursery/peer-reared), or the presence/absence of SIB history. In addition, nursery/peer rearing and/or a history of SIB were associated with higher rates for both loci. Significant genotype by rearing interactions were found for each genotype, implicating that the short-allele of 5HTTLPR and the high activity allele of MAOA-LPR may offer some protection against SIB.
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