Meyer-Lindenberg (SAQ & ERQ genes)

Question 1

aim

Answer 1

to see how differences in MAOA-gene affect brain volume and activity in a threatening situation

Question 2

participants

Answer 2

142 healthy participants with MAOA-L and -H variants

Question 3

method

Answer 3

compared 2 groups of participants that had either MAOA-L expressing variant or MAOA-H expressing variant of the gene.
MRIs to measure brain volume and fMRI to measure brain activity when viewing angry and fearful faces

Question 4

results

Answer 4

when exposed to angry stimuli there was increased amygdala activity in the MAOA-L condition and less activity in PFC
less gray matter in their amygdala and other parts of the brain

Question 5

conclusion

Answer 5

the MAOA-L variant may be linked with aggression because it increases activity in the amygdala and reduces activity in the decision making regions

Question 6

key terms

Answer 6

MAOA
aggression
amygdala
PFC