Impulsivity, aggression, and serotonin: a molecular psychobiological perspective.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Behavioral Genetics
• Psychobiology

Background:

• Aggressiveness is a complex behavior influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.
• Individual differences in impulsivity and aggression are heritable, resulting from gene-environment interactions.
• Serotonin (5HT) plays a crucial role in neural network formation and integration, impacting behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review studies on major gene effects influencing aggression-related behavior in animal models.
• To discuss the relevance of human serotonergic gene variations associated with high aggressiveness.
• To consider conceptual and methodological issues in identifying genes for impulsivity and aggression.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies involving inbred and knockout mouse strains exhibiting increased aggression.
• Analysis of human genetic variations in serotonergic genes.
• Examination of molecular psychobiology of 5HT in aggression across species.

Main Results:

• Genetically determined variability in serotonergic gene expression influences complex traits, including inappropriate aggression.
• Mouse models provide insights into the genetic underpinnings of aggression-related behavior.
• Specific serotonergic gene variations are linked to aggressiveness in humans.

Conclusions:

• Serotonergic system variability is a key factor in aggression.
• Mouse models are valuable for studying the genetic basis of aggression and developing models for human antisocial behavior.
• Further research is needed to identify candidate genes for impulsivity and aggressiveness.