Association between AKT1 gene polymorphisms and depressive symptoms in the Chinese Han population with major depressive disorder

For this study, 461 Chinese Han patients with depressive disorder were recruited. The AKT1 genotype and allele distribution were determined by PCR amplification and direct sequencing. UNPHASED software was used to analyze associations between the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, total score, four factors and the AKT1 rs2494746 and rs3001371 polymorphisms. The results indicate that there is a significant association between suicidal ideation and anxiety symptoms in depressed patients and the rs2494746 polymorphism. The other AKT1 polymorphism, rs3001371, was significantly associated with work and activities. Patients with the rs3001371-A allele had a significantly more severe illness compared to patients with the rs3001371-G allele. Thus, AKT1 polymorphisms appear to be associated with depression severity, anxiety symptoms, work and activities, and suicide attempts in patients with depressive disorder.