Significance of MAOA gene in mental illness

Genes play a very important in shaping several aspects of our

personality and psyche. Genes carry the information that determines
your traits (say: trates), which are features or characteristics that are
passed on to you — or inherited — from your parents. Each cell in the
human body contains about 25,000 to 35,000 genes. New research done
by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says, "major mental
disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive
disorder, share common genetic roots, but each disorder presents
differently in each individual. Major mental disorders traditionally
thought to be distinct share certain genetic glitches, according to a new
study. The finding may point to better ways to diagnose and treat these
conditions. Scientists have long recognized that many psychiatric
disorders tend to run in families, suggesting potential genetic roots

The MAOA gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called

monoamine oxidase A. This enzyme is part of a family of enzymes that
break down molecules called monoamines through a chemical reaction
known as oxidation. Among the monoamines broken down by
monoamine oxidase A are certain chemicals that act as
neurotransmitters, which transmit signals between nerve cells in the
brain. Neurotransmitters are broken down when signaling is no longer
needed.

Specifically, monoamine oxidase A is involved in the breakdown of the

neurotransmitters serotonin, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Signals transmitted by serotonin regulate mood, emotion, sleep, and
appetite. Epinephrine and norepinephrine control the body's response to
stress. Dopamine transmits signals within the brain to produce smooth
physical movements. Also, low levels of serotonin leads to impulsive
and aggressive behavior. Changes in the expression of specific genes in
the brain -such as MAOA can affect neurotransmitter levels, which, in
turn, influences complex functions such as intelligence, mood and
memory. Environmental influences including stress, substance abuse,
diet, sleep quality and social relationships also affect the brain.

MAOA gene is also known as the warrior gene, since abnormal versions
of the gene often result in aggressive behaviors. Individuals with the so-
called “warrior gene” display higher levels of aggression in response to
provocation, according to new research co-authored by Rose
McDermott, professor of political science at Brown University. In the
experiment, which is the first to examine a behavioral measure of
aggression in response to provocation, subjects were asked to cause
physical pain to an opponent they believed had taken money from them
by administering varying amounts of hot sauce. 

Considering the genetic background of extremely violent behavior, the

analysis of almost 900 Finnish criminals found that at least 5-10% of
them -who had committed at least 10 homicides or repeatedly attempted
homicides, or batteries- in fact carried a MAOA low-activity genotype.

In the early 1990s, researchers linked low levels of MAO-A with

increased frequencies of antisocial behavior, specifically when
individuals had a history of being mistreated during childhood. This
study suggest that when subjected to an abusive childhood, individuals
with low -MAO-A expression has are at an increased risk of developing
Anti-Social Personality Disorder. This may yield to a long-term pattern
of manipulating, exploiting, or violating the rights of others, and may
commit violent criminal acts.