5HTT Polymorphisms

Many different factors contribute to the presence of anxiety and stress in athletes. A study by Petito and colleagues in 2016 describes a fascinating interaction between biology, psychology, and environment. The researchers recruited 133 athletes and examined not only serotonin transporter gene (5HTT) polymorphisms but also measures of emotional arousal, personality traits (including neuroticism), and mood states. Their conclusion is that ‘a significant interaction’ exists between polymorphism, neuroticism and sporting stresses and that this predicts mental health problems in athletes.

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