Lack of association between rs1049353 polymorphism of the CNR1 gene and suicide attempt frequency in Polish population

Suicidal behaviour is a major public health problem in Poland. There is compelling evidence that genetic factors contribute to the risk for suicidal behavior. Studies suggest a link between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1049353 (1359 G/A; Thr453Thr) of cannabinoid receptor 1 gene (CNR1) and mental disorders, including suicide behaviour.

Aim: The purpose of the study was to determine whether 1359 G/ A polymorphism of CNR1 is more frequent in people attempting suicide than in the general population.

Materials and methods: A sample of 76 genetically unrelated participants were enrolled into the study: 48 patients after a suicide attempt and the control group - 28 individuals without a history of suicide attempts. The genotyping of 1359 G/A polymorphism of CNR1 gene was performed with the application of Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) analysis.

Results: None of the 1359 G/A polymorphisms of CNR1 gene seem to occur more frequently among individuals who attempted suicide.

Conclusions: Further research with larger samples with different racial and geographic origins are needed in the future.