While the role of 5-HTT polymorphisms mediating gene environment interactions in affective disorders is debated [69,70,71], pointing towards only modest effects if existent at all [72], some studies found hints for a higher HPA responsiveness using the dex/CRH test in individuals with depression carrying the S/S allele [36,73] or in healthy S/S females by means of the cortisol awakening response [74], or saliva after a defined psychosocial stressor [75]. This evidence concerns the gene SLC6A4 and depressive symptom measurement.