Case Study: The Warrior Gene

The MAOA gene variant known as the “warrior” gene is actually a variant of the promoter region of the gene, coding for a less active MAOA enzyme. Since this enzyme hangs out inside cells and breaks down neurotransmitters, having less active MAOA means more neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine) are available, which might be protective against depression (the results are mixed), but it is also possible it could lead to more impulsive and violent behavior. Over the years, the controversy around the “warrior gene” has popped up, whether it, in combination with maltreatment as a child, leads to sociopathy in adults.
A recent review declared that several studies have shown MAOA-L men exposed to early life abuse engaged