Study may lead to a better understanding of impulsivity

By Staff Writer

In a recent study, a research team led by scientists from the National Institutes of Health found that a genetic variant in the brain may spur impulsive behavior in individuals under the influence of alcohol.

According to the researchers behind the study, which appears in the December 23 issue of Nature, impulsivity is a factor in a number of pathological behaviors, such as addiction and suicide.

For the study, researchers chose to examine a sample of violent criminal offenders in Finland. The crimes committed by these individuals were said to be spontaneous and purposeless. The scientists compared the DNA sequences of the impulsive subjects and an equal number of non-impulsive subjects.

It was discovered that a simple change in DNA blocked a gene which was designed to encode a neurotransmitter known to influence impulsivity. However, this variant alone was not enough to cause the impulsive behavior. Of the criminal subjects, all were male and under the influence of alcohol at the time of their crimes.

Researchers believe that the study's findings may lead to a better understanding and possible treatment options for impulsive behavior. Individuals who become violent under the influence of alcohol may want to seek substance abuse help to avoid potential harm to themselves or others.