Genetic Factors in Aggression and Intermittent Explosive Disorder
Author Information
Author(s): Vu Tiffany H, Coccaro Emil F, Eichler Evan E, Girirajan Santhosh
Primary Institution: University of Washington School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Are rare copy number variants (CNVs) associated with intermittent explosive disorder (IED) and personality disorders?
Conclusion
The study suggests that rare CNVs may play a role in the genetic underpinnings of IED and personality disorders, but further research is needed.
Supporting Evidence
- Rare CNVs were detected in individuals with IED that were not present in control groups.
- Previous studies have linked genetic variants to aggressive behaviors.
- Impulsive aggression is believed to be influenced by genetics, with heritability estimates of 44–72%.
Takeaway
Some people who get really angry might have different genes that make them more likely to act that way, and scientists are trying to find out why.
Methodology
Array comparative genomic hybridization was performed on DNA samples from individuals diagnosed with IED and/or personality disorder.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in participant selection and self-reported histories of aggression.
Limitations
The small sample size limits the power to detect rare genetic variants.
Participant Demographics
Caucasian individuals, 85 males and 62 females, with a mean age of 14 years at onset of IED.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.072
Statistical Significance
p=0.072
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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