5-HTT SS genotype is associated with the pro-nociceptive sensation by alcoholic sting

Cell Biochem Biophys. 2014 Apr;68(3):629-33. doi: 10.1007/s12013-013-9759-5.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the genetic polymorphism in the promoter of the SLC6A4 gene encoding the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) and the sensitivity to noxious stimulation from a clinical perspective. The genotyping of the 217 outpatients with mild epidermal abrasion in lateral crural region was performed by a combination of polymerase chain reaction and digestion. The intensity of pain to medical alcohol treatment was rated on a visual analog scale (VAS). The results suggest that the human triallelic 5-HTT genotypes are related to individual differences in sensitivity to alcoholic sting. According to the VAS ratings, the subjects with the 5-HTT low-expression genotype reported more pain than those with 5-HTT medium- and high-expression genotypes following test stimuli. There is no significant difference between sexes in the same SLC6A4 genotype and between medium and high expressions of 5-HTT subjects. Taken together, our study supports the hypothesis that the transcription rate of the 5-HTT transporter may play an important role in the pain sensitivity and central sensitization.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Alcohols / pharmacology*
  • Genotype*
  • Humans
  • Nociception / drug effects*
  • Pain / chemically induced
  • Pain / etiology
  • Pain / genetics
  • Pain / physiopathology
  • Physical Stimulation
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Alcohols
  • SLC6A4 protein, human
  • Serotonin Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins