PDE4B gene polymorphism in Russian patients with panic disorder

Abstract Background Panic disorder is a complex disease of unclear etiology but with an apparent genetic component. PDE4B gene product is involved in many cell processes owing to its function-regulation of the level of a second messenger cAMP. PDE4B gene polymorphism has been shown to be associated with some mental disorders including panic disorder. Aims The goal of our study was to evaluate the role of 3 SNPs in the PDE4B gene in the development of panic disorder. Methods 94 patients diagnosed with panic disorder according to the DSM-IV criteria were enrolled in the study. The population control group included 192 subjects. Genotyping was carried out by real-time PCR with TaqMan probes. Results The investigated substitutions are not associated with panic disorder in general and in female/male cohorts (p > 0.05). The analysis of complex genotypes demonstrated two protective complex genotypes (rs1040716:A, T + rs10454453:A + rs502958:A and rs1040716:A, T + rs502958:A) associated with panic disorder in general regardless of the patient's gender (p < 0.05). These genotypes did not correlate with the patient's sex. Conclusions We found two complex protective genotypes associated with panic disorder. This can be due to the fact that predisposition to the disease are associated with other genes, while PDE4B gene polymorphism reduces their effect.