Link Between Vasopressin Receptor AVPR1A Promoter Region Microsatellites and Measures of Social Behavior in Humans

Abstract

Abstract. Two markers near the vasopressin receptor (AVPR1A) gene located on chromosome 12q14-15 were tested for linkage to two complex social behaviors in humans: Sibling relationships and self-presentation style. Self-report questionnaires were administered to 552 same-sex siblings from 248 families. Suggestive linkage was observed between both microsatellites (RS1 and RS3) and the Sibling Relationship Questionnaire Conflict scale (RS1: χ2 = 13.65, LOD = 2.96, p = .0001; RS3: χ2 = 14.54, LOD = 3.16, p = .00007) and the Concern for Appropriateness Scale Self-presentational style (RS1: χ2 = 8.25, LOD = 1.79 p = .002; RS3: χ2 = 8.81, LOD = 1.91, p = .002. The current results provide the first provisional evidence that the vasopressin receptor mediates social behavior in humans and links a specific genetic element to perceived sibling interactions.