Association analysis of a functional G protein beta 3 subunit gene polymorphism (C825T) in mood disorders

The guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G; proteins), heterotrimers consis ting of alpha, beta and gamma subunits, convey signals initiated by the act ivation of many neurotransmitter receptors. Evidence for involvement of the G proteins in mood disorders relies on the effects of mood stabilizers and antidepressants on G protein function. In addition, abnormalities in the e xpression of G proteins have been demonstrated in mood disorder patients. T herefore, we tested the hypothesis that a functional polymorphism (C825T) i n the G protein beta3 gene subunit (GNB3) confers susceptibility tol mood d isorders. A population-based association study was utilized, and GNB3 was g enotyped for 144 mood disorder patients and 153 normal controls. The result s reveal that it is, not likely that the C825T polymorphism in the GNB3 gen e subunit is involved in mood disorder pathogenesis. Further studies of the associations, between other G protein subunits and mood disorder are neede d to fully elaborate the involvement of this protein in mood disorders. Cop yright (C) 2001 S. KargerAG, Basel.