The MAOA gene is linked to aggression in about one third of men. Which gene is this?

The MAOA gene is linked to aggression in about one third of men. Which gene is this?

• A. DRD4
• B. MAOA warrior gene
• C. COMT
• D. SLC6A4

Answer: (B)

This item tests how a specific gene interacts with the environment to influence aggression. The MAOA gene encodes monoamine oxidase A, an enzyme that breaks down monoamines such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. A low-activity variant of MAOA, especially when paired with childhood maltreatment, is linked to a higher risk of antisocial and aggressive behavior in men. This illustrates that the gene doesn’t cause aggression by itself; the environmental context shapes the outcome, so only a subset of individuals with the variant show increased aggression. The nickname “warrior gene” reflects this media-covered link. The other genes listed affect neurotransmitter systems but do not have as clear or robust evidence for this specific aggression link in the described context.

This item tests how a specific gene interacts with the environment to influence aggression. The MAOA gene encodes monoamine oxidase A, an enzyme that breaks down monoamines such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. A low-activity variant of MAOA, especially when paired with childhood maltreatment, is linked to a higher risk of antisocial and aggressive behavior in men. This illustrates that the gene doesn’t cause aggression by itself; the environmental context shapes the outcome, so only a subset of individuals with the variant show increased aggression. The nickname “warrior gene” reflects this media-covered link. The other genes listed affect neurotransmitter systems but do not have as clear or robust evidence for this specific aggression link in the described context.