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The role of dopaminergic system genes in aggression and antisocial behavior

https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2026-2-32-36

Abstract

The determinants of aggressive human behavior and criminal aggression include genetic factors and environmental influences. Experiments have shown that the manifestation of aggressive behavior largely depends on the level of dopamine. The results of studies of the genes of five dopamine receptors DRD1–DRD4, the catechol-O-methyltransferase gene, the monoamine oxidase-A gene, and genes encoding enzymes involved in the synthesis or degradation of dopamine are presented. The results of most studies confirm the relationship of dopaminergic receptor genes with aggression, antisocial behavior, impulsivity. At the same time, a number of studies have not revealed the relationship of genes regulating the function of dopamine with antisocial behavior. The inconsistency of research results on genetic predisposition to antisocial behavior may be associated with a number of methodological problems and errors.

About the Authors

N. V. Orlova
N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (Pirogov University); Tyumen State University
Russian Federation

Orlova Natalia V., Dr Med Sci (habil.), professor at Dept of Faculty Therapy of Institute of Motherhood and Childhood, N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (Pirogov University); leading researcher at the laboratory, Tyumen State University

Moscow

Tyumen



G. N. Suvorov
Tyumen State University
Russian Federation

Suvorov Georgy N., PhD in Law, head of Dept of Scientific and Innovative Work, head of the laboratory

Tyumen



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Orlova N.V., Suvorov G.N. The role of dopaminergic system genes in aggression and antisocial behavior. Medical alphabet. 2026;(2):32-36. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2026-2-32-36

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ISSN 2078-5631 (Print)
ISSN 2949-2807 (Online)