Related Experiment Videos
Low platelet monoamine oxidase activity in pathological gambling
J L Carrasco1, J Sáiz-Ruiz, E Hollander
1Department of Psychiatry, Centro de Salud Mental, Parla Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Decreased platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity has been reported in association with sensation-seeking personality type and in some mental disorders associated with a lack of impulse control. Pathological gambling itself has been related with both sensation-seeking and reduced impulse control. Platelet MAO activity was investigated in 15 DSM-III-R pathological gamblers from our outpatient clinic. Gamblers had a significantly lower platelet MAO activity than a group of 25 healthy controls. The range of MAO levels in gamblers was also significantly shorter than in controls. In controls, platelet MAO levels showed the previously described negative correlations with sensation-seeking scores but not in gamblers. The findings are consistent with previous studies showing an association of low platelet MAO activity with impulse control disorders and raise some interesting therapeutic alternatives for pathological gambling.
Insights
Pathological gamblers exhibit significantly lower platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity compared to healthy individuals. This finding suggests a link between MAO levels, impulse control, and sensation-seeking behaviors in gambling disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Decreased platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity is linked to sensation-seeking traits and impulse control disorders.
- Pathological gambling is associated with both sensation-seeking and reduced impulse control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity in pathological gamblers.
- To explore the relationship between MAO activity, sensation-seeking, and impulse control in pathological gambling.
Main Methods:
- Platelet MAO activity was measured in 15 pathological gamblers (DSM-III-R criteria).
- MAO levels were compared to those of 25 healthy controls.
- Sensation-seeking scores were assessed and correlated with MAO levels.
Main Results:
- Pathological gamblers showed significantly lower platelet MAO activity than controls.
- The range of MAO levels was significantly narrower in gamblers.
- MAO levels correlated negatively with sensation-seeking in controls, but not in gamblers.
Conclusions:
- Low platelet MAO activity is associated with pathological gambling, consistent with its link to impulse control disorders.
- Findings suggest potential therapeutic avenues for pathological gambling by targeting MAO activity or related pathways.