The relationship between polymorphism of four serotonic genes (5-HTTL, 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, and MAOA) and personality traits in wrestlers and control group

The molecular genetic analysis of serotonin system genes (5-HTTL, 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, and MAOA) in male and female wrestlers and in a control group has been performed. Comparative population genetics analysis of the 5-HTTL gene showed the highest frequency of the SS genotype 5-HTTLPR in athletes (p = 0.04), as well as a trend to higher frequencies of united genotypes of the locus 5-HTTLPR VNTR and SNP rs25531—S A S A (p = 0.06) compared to the control group. As for the markers of 5-HT1A (rs6295), 5-HT2A (rs6311), and MAOA (VNTR), we found no significant differences between the groups tested. Using an NEO PI-R questionnaire, possible correlations between the genotypes and psychological traits were analyzed in the studied samples. It was demonstrated that the athletic achievements of upper-tier athletes are associated with their lower openness to experience and higher conscientiousness. It was revealed that the factors of gender and 5-HT1A genotype should influence the self-rating for openness to experience. Furthermore, a combined effect of the level of sports achievements and 5-HT2A genotypes was found, as well as gender and 5-HT1A genotypes, on the self-rating for conscientiousness.