Genetic Variations in Elements of the Oxytocinergic Pathway are Associated with Attention/Hyperactivity Problems and Anxiety Problems in Childhood

Child Psychiatry Hum Dev. 2024 Apr;55(2):552-563. doi: 10.1007/s10578-022-01419-3. Epub 2022 Sep 10.

Abstract

Genetic alterations related to oxytocin system seem to influence the neurobiology of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and anxiety problems leading to greater functional, social and emotional impairment. Here, we analyzed the association of OXTR rs2254298 and CD38 rs6449182 variants with attention/hyperactivity problems and anxiety problems in children. The study enrolled 292 children and adjusted regression model revealed OXTR rs2254298 AA genotype as a risk factor for attention deficit/hyperactivity problems (PR: 2.37; PadjFDR = 0.006), attention problems (PR: 2.71; PadjFDR = 0.003) and anxiety problems (PR: 1.92; PadjFDR = 0.018). CD38 rs6449182 G allele showed as a risk factor for attention deficit/hyperactivity problems (PR: 1.56; PadjFDR = 0.028). Moreover, in silico approach for regulatory roles found markers that influence chromatin accessibility and transcription capacity. Together, these data provide genetic information of oxytocin in developmental and behavioral disorders opening a range of opportunities for future studies that clarify their neurobiology in childhood.

Keywords: Behavior in childhood; Genetic alterations; Oxytocinergic pathway; Polymorphisms; in silico approach.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety / genetics
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / genetics
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / psychology
  • Child
  • Emotions
  • Genetic Variation / genetics
  • Humans
  • Oxytocin* / genetics
  • Oxytocin* / metabolism
  • Receptors, Oxytocin / genetics

Substances

  • Oxytocin
  • Receptors, Oxytocin