Quote by Robert M. Sapolsky
““drugs that decrease “serotonergic tone” (i.e., decreasing serotonin levels or sensitivity to serotonin) increase impulsive aggression; raising the tone does the opposite. This generates some simple predictions—all of the following should be associated with impulsive aggression, as they will produce low serotonin signaling: a. Low-activity variants of the gene for tryptophan hydroxylase (TH), which makes serotonin b. High-activity variants of the gene for monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A), which degrades serotonin c. High-activity variants of the gene for the serotonin transporter (5HTT), which removes serotonin from the synapse d. Variants of genes for serotonin receptors that are less sensitive to serotonin””
About This Quote
Source Book: Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst, 2017
Low serotonin signaling is linked to impulsive aggression; genetic variants that reduce serotonin activity increase aggression.
In simple terms: Low serotonin leads to aggression.
Key Takeaway
Consider serotonin’s role in behavior.
Themes
neuroscience
genetics
aggression
psychology
Mood
analytical
concerned
Type
scientific
informative
When to use this quote
- clinical psychiatry
- pharmacology
- research design
- public health
- education
Key Concepts
Neurobiology
behavioral genetics
impulsivity
Questions to Reflect On
- How might environmental factors interact with these genes?
- Can serotonin modulation be safely targeted?
A Different Perspective
Serotonin levels are influenced by many factors beyond genetics.
