Alcohol and a polymorphism of the monoamine oxidase A gene predict impulsive violence
Tuesday, December 16, 2008 - 10:21
in Health & Medicine
The monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene is an outer membrane mitochondrial enzyme that breaks down monoamines such as serotonin, noradrenalin and dopamine. A common polymorphism in MAOA results in high- or low-activity MAOA, and both genotypes have been linked to aggression and violence. A Finnish study has found that drinking and high-activity MAOA can predict the risk of impulsive violence, while ageing may decrease this risk...