ESR1 polymorphisms, daily hassles, anger expression, and depressive symptoms in adolescent boys and girls

Studies reporting associations between genetic factors and mood-related traits have often been criticized (i) for failing to take into account the role of the social environment in which individuals act and (ii) for not maintaining a ‘transparent narrative connection’ between genes and outcomes. In a sample of adolescents, we analyzed whether PvuII and XbaI, two polymorphisms on the ESR1 (Estrogen Receptor Gene α) were related to depressive symptoms, and considered whether daily hassles moderated this relationship and whether anger expression style mediated this relationship. Analyses suggested that ESR1 polymorphisms are relevant to the intra-sexual variability in depressive symptoms in boys and that the experience of daily hassles moderated this relationship. No such relationships were found in girls. Additionally, ESR1 polymorphisms are related to anger expression styles in girls. Anger-related variables, however, did not mediate the relationship between ESR1 polymorphisms and depressive symptoms, in boys nor in girls.

► PvuII and XbaI, two polymorphisms on the ESR1-gene are related to depressive symptoms in boys, but not in girls.
► PvuII and XbAI moderated the influence of daily hassles on depressive symptoms in boys, but not in girls.
► PvuII and XbaI were related to anger-expression style in girls (i.e. directing anger inwardly versus outwardly).
► Anger expression style did not mediate the relationship between ESR1 polymorphisms and depressive symptoms.