Genetic differences can greatly affect how neurotransmitters break down and work in our body. Here are some important things to know:
Enzyme Activity: Changes in genes that create enzymes (like COMT or MAO) can change how well these enzymes work. This impacts the levels of neurotransmitters in our brain.
Reuptake Variants: Some differences in genes that control transporters (like SLC6A4 for serotonin) can change how efficiently neurotransmitters are taken back into the cells. This can lead to different moods and behaviors.
Example: For example, a specific variation of the COMT gene may cause dopamine to break down faster. This can affect our thinking processes and how we manage our emotions.
Knowing about these genetic differences helps us understand why people may experience different psychological conditions.
Genetic differences can greatly affect how neurotransmitters break down and work in our body. Here are some important things to know:
Enzyme Activity: Changes in genes that create enzymes (like COMT or MAO) can change how well these enzymes work. This impacts the levels of neurotransmitters in our brain.
Reuptake Variants: Some differences in genes that control transporters (like SLC6A4 for serotonin) can change how efficiently neurotransmitters are taken back into the cells. This can lead to different moods and behaviors.
Example: For example, a specific variation of the COMT gene may cause dopamine to break down faster. This can affect our thinking processes and how we manage our emotions.
Knowing about these genetic differences helps us understand why people may experience different psychological conditions.