PNMT transgenic mice have an aggressive phenotype

PNMT (phenylethanolamine-N-methyl-transferase) is the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of epinephrine from norepinephrine. In transgenic mice over-expressing PNMT, observations revealed a very high level of aggression compared to their background strain, C57BL/6J. To evaluate the influence of PNMT on aggression and emotionality in this transgenic line, single-sex male and female groups were independently established that consisted of either four wild-type mice or four transgenic mice overexpressing PNMT. The members of each group were littermates. Mixed single-sex groups consisting of two transgenic mice and two wild-type mice were also established. Almost no fights were observed within the female groups. In males, the transgenic line showed a significantly higher level of fighting than controls (p=0.007) and mixed male groups (p=0.02). Housing mice from the transgenic line in mixed groups with wild-type mice seems to decrease the level of aggression in the transgenic line. In conclusion, this is the first study to demonstrate a clear, significant increase in aggression arising from PNMT overexpression. This suggests an important role for central epinephrine levels in aggressive behavior.