Gender-specific genetic effects of vitamin D and B9 on neuroticism
Overview
This study reveals sex-specific associations between genetic predispositions for vitamin D and B9 levels and neuroticism scores. Vitamin B9 polygenic scores negatively correlated with neuroticism in women, while vitamin D polygenic scores positively correlated with neuroticism in men.
Background
Neuroticism is a personality trait linked to emotional instability and increased risk for mental and physical health issues. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to neuroticism, with vitamins D and B9 being modifiable environmental factors of interest due to their roles in brain function. Vitamin D acts as a neurosteroid influencing neurodevelopment and mental health, whereas vitamin B9 is crucial for methylation and neuroprotection. Previous research on the causal effects of these vitamins on neuroticism and related disorders has been inconclusive.
Data Highlights
Sex
Vitamin B9 PGS vs Neuroticism
Vitamin D PGS vs Neuroticism
Additional Associations in Men
Women
Negative association
No significant association
Not reported
Men
No significant association
Positive association
Neuroticism associated with PGS for bipolar disorder type 1 and alcohol use disorders, but not with neuroticism PGS
Key Findings
Vitamin B9 polygenic scores are inversely associated with neuroticism scores in women, suggesting a protective effect on emotional stability.
Vitamin D polygenic scores are positively associated with neuroticism scores in men, particularly in those with high extraversion.
Men with high neuroticism scores show associations with genetic risk for bipolar disorder type 1 and alcohol use disorders, rather than with neuroticism polygenic scores.
The genetic effects of vitamin D and B9 on neuroticism differ by sex, indicating distinct biological pathways.
Findings support the importance of vitamin B9 for emotional stability in women and implicate vitamin D-related genetic factors in excitability-related neuroticism components in men.
Clinical Implications
These results highlight the potential for sex-specific nutritional interventions targeting vitamin B9 and D to modulate neuroticism and related mental health risks. Screening for vitamin B9 sufficiency may be particularly relevant in women to support emotional stability. In men, attention to vitamin D status and its genetic influences might inform strategies addressing excitability and neuroticism-related traits.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates sex-specific genetic influences of vitamin D and B9 on neuroticism, underscoring the importance of considering gender differences in research and clinical approaches to personality and mental health. These findings pave the way for personalized nutritional and genetic risk assessments in managing neuroticism.
Related Resources & Content
Original Study 2024 -- Gender-specific effects of vitamin D and B9 levels on neuroticism: a study utilizing polygenic scoring
