BACKGROUND: The monoamine oxidase-A (MAOA) gene plays a vital role in the 
metabolism of neurotransmitters, e.g, serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. A 
polymorphism in the promoter region (MAOA-uVNTR) affects transcriptional 
efficiency. Allelic variation in MAOA-uVNTR has been associated with body mass 
index (BMI). We extended previous work by examining relations among this 
polymorphism and serum lipid levels.
MATERIAL/METHODS: The sample consisted of 74 males enrolled in a study of 
caregivers for relatives with dementia. Regression models, adjusted for age, 
race, group status (caregiver/control), and cholesterol lowering medication 
(yes/no), were used to examine associations between high verses low MAOA-uVNTR 
activity alleles and total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, LDL/HDL ratio, 
triglycerides, and BMI.
RESULTS: Higher total cholesterol (p<0.03), LDL/HDL ratio (p<0.01), 
triglycerides (p<0.02), and VLDL (p<0.02) were associated with low activity 
MAOA-uVNTR alleles. HDL and LDL were modestly related to MAOA-uVNTR activity, 
however, they did not reach the conventional significance level (p<0.07 and 
p<0.10, respectively). BMI (p<0.74) was unrelated to MAOA-uVNTR transcription.
CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that MAOA-uVNTR may influence lipid 
levels and individuals with less active alleles are at increased health risk.