Serotonin Transporter Gene may be Involved in Short-Term Risk of Subsequent Suicide Attempts

In the first year following a suicide attempt, patients are at high risk for reattempt & for completed suicide. The authors aim to determine the predictive value of two serotonin-related genes, the tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) & serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR) genes that have been involved in the susceptibility to suicidal behavior. Results suggest that the 5-HTTLPR SS genotype is associated with further suicide attempts among patients who have previously attempted suicide. (49 refs)