Serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) variation and sensory processing sensitivity—Comparison with other anxiety‐related temperamental dimensions

BACKGROUND: The short (s) allele of the 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism in the promoter region of the human serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) gene SLC6A4 has previously been associated with anxiety‐related personality dimensions. However, this relationship has not been confirmed in all studies and may be modified by environmental circumstances and/or psychiatric illness. This study examined whether the temperamental trait sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), characterized by increased responsivity to environmental stimuli, is related to 5‐HTTLPR/rs25531 genotype. METHODS: 5‐HTTLPR and rs25531 genotypes, level of SPS, self‐reported Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO‐PI‐R) and Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) personality profiles, and symptoms of psychological distress (SCL‐90R Global Severity Index) were determined for 405 healthy volunteers. RESULTS: Sensory processing sensitivity was highly correlated with the anxiety‐related dimensions of the NEO‐PI‐R and the TCI models of personality, Neuroticism, and Harm Avoidance, respectively. However, the level of SPS was not associated with the combined 5‐HTTLPR and rs25531 s′/s′ genotype. Neuroticism and Harm Avoidance were also not associated with 5‐HTTLPR/rs25531 s′/s′ genotype. Correcting for symptoms of psychological distress had no effect on the relationships between personality and genotype. CONCLUSION: The level of SPS was not associated with serotonin transporter gene variation. Further, combined 5‐HTTLPR and rs25531 genotype was not associated with other anxiety‐related dimensions.