ABSTRACT
Genetic variations of serotonin transporter gene (5HTT) are closely related with human adaptive ability to control emotions and are very attractive in investigation of athletes whose life is accompanied by high emotional pressure. This study was concerned with the effect of genetic polymorphism of 5HTT on aggression of athletes. In total, the study enrolled 86 synchronized swimmers. Analysis of genotype was carried out in 73 young females (aged 8-18) actively engaged in competitions. Psychological testing of aggression (Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory) was performed in 64 sportswomen. Analysis of correlation between scores on the primary scales of this test and genotypic features showed that scores of Indirect Hostility were higher but scores of Irritability and Negativism were lower in sportswomen with genotype of the SS type as compared to other groups (LS and LL types). The correlation of 5HTT genotype, aggressiveness and success in competitions is discussed.
