The influence of 5-HTTLPR, COMT Val158Met polymorphism, adverse life events, anxiety, impulsivity and neuroticism on eating disorder symptomatology

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of 5-HTTLPR and COMT Val158Met polymorphism, anxiety, impulsivity, neuroticism and adverse life events on abnormal eating behaviors among 25-year-old women. This study is based on ECPBHS (Estonian Children Personality, Behaviour and Health Study) older cohort data. Participants answered to State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Barrat Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), NEO-PI Estonian version, Eating Disorder Inventory -2 (EDI-2). The sample was genotyped for 5-HTTLPR and COMT Val158Met polymorphism. The main finding of the current study is that the influence of neuroticism on eating disorder symptomatology is mediated mainly by trait anxiety. This study shows consistent effects of neuroticism through trait anxiety on bulimic symptoms, body dissatisfaction and drive for thinness. Neuroticism through impulsivity influences only bulimic symptoms. Trait anxiety can be seen as a stable trait predisposing people toward higher levels of eating disorder symptomatology.