Alcohol And A Polymorphism Of The Monoamine Oxidase A Gene Can Predict Impulsive Violence

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 aging may decrease this risk.

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Filed under: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs on December 19th, 2008