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SummaryThis gene encodes the D4 subtype of the dopamine receptor. The D4 subtype is a G-protein coupled receptor which inhibits adenylyl cyclase. It is a target for drugs which treat schizophrenia and Parkinson disease. Mutations in this gene have been associated with various behavioral phenotypes, including autonomic nervous system dysfunction, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and the personality trait of novelty seeking. This gene contains a polymorphic number (2-10 copies) of tandem 48 nt repeats; the sequence shown contains four repeats. DiscussionThe hypothesis that gene variants could influence temperamental traits in mood disorders patients was tested. Genotypes containing the DRD4 long allele were marginally associated with low harm avoidance. [1] Strong linkage disequilibrium between exon 1 12-bp duplication and exon 3 48-bp VNTR were observed in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. [2] Significant main effects of gender and DRD4 genotype were observed on 6-year behavioral problems. Boys showed more attention problems and externalizing behavior.[3] Possible influence of monoamine oxydase A (MAO-A), catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), serotonin receptor 2A (5-HT2A), dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2), and dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) gene variants on timing of recurrence in mood disorders. [4] Links |
