Title:The Role of the Catechol-o-Methyltransferase (COMT) GeneVal158Met in Aggressive Behavior, a Review of Genetic Studies
Volume: 13
Issue: 6
Author(s): Arqam Qayyum, Clement C. Zai, Yuko Hirata, Arun K. Tiwari, Sheraz Cheema, Behdin Nowrouzi, Joseph H. Beitchman and L. Kennedy
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Aggression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), catechol-0-methyltransferase (COMT), genetics,
schizophrenia, Val158Met (rs4680).
Abstract: Aggressive behaviors have become a major public health problem, and
early-onset aggression can lead to outcomes such as substance abuse, antisocial
personality disorder among other issues. In recent years, there has been an increase in
research in the molecular and genetic underpinnings of aggressive behavior, and one
of the candidate genes codes for the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). COMT is
involved in catabolizing catecholamines such as dopamine. These neurotransmitters
appear to be involved in regulating mood which can contribute to aggression. The
most common gene variant studied in the COMT gene is the Valine (Val) to Methionine (Met) substitution at codon 158.
We will be reviewing the current literature on this gene variant in aggressive behavior.
