Prospective Analytical Study on Genetic Variation in the Serotonin Transporter Gene (5-HTTLPR) and Monoamine Oxidase A (MAOA) Influencing Hormones and Depression in Women in the United Arab Emirates.

INTRODUCTION

Women are vulnerable to depression, with evidence of MAO-A and HTTP gene variations' impact. We studied depression in women at a UAE hospital to analyze hormonal changes, psychological symptoms severity, and gene variations related to MAO and HTTP promoter region polymorphism.

METHODS

This prospective analytical study included 100 participants (50 depressed, 50 non-depressed women aged 18-60 years). Women with thyroid diseases, abnormal mammograms, organic causes, cardiovascular diseases, or atherosclerotic conditions were excluded. Depression severity was assessed using Beck Depression Inventory. Cortisol, serotonin, and leptin levels were measured using ELISA kits. Saliva samples were collected for DNA polymorphism detection using PCR and gel electrophoresis. Statistical analysis used SPSS software.

RESULTS

Participants showed simple depression (20%), moderate (13%), severe (10%), and very severe (7%). HTTP cases were L/L (41%), L/S (39%), and S/S (20%). MSP distributions were SA/SG (32%), SA/SA (29%), LA/SA (25%), and SA/LG(14%); MAO were 3/4 (57%), 3/3 (32%), and 4/4 (11%).

CONCLUSION

This UAE study demonstrates hormones and gene variations' influence. HTTP genotyping revealed three groups: S/S, S/L, and L/L alleles. MAO variants were 3/4, 3/3 and 4/4. Genetic factors can guide treatment planning for severe depression.