Brunner eta al- Genetics

Question 1

Background

Answer 1

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which plays a part in regulating anger and aggression. The enzyme MAOA plays a part in the production of serotonin.

Question 2

Aim

Answer 2

To explain the behaviour of a large family in the Netherlands where the males had a syndrome of borderline mental retardation & abnormal violent behaviour e.g attempted rape & arson

Question 3

Method

Answer 3

Case study/Correlation

Question 4

Sample

Answer 4

5 affected males in family

Question 5

Procedure

Answer 5

Data collected from an analysis of urine samples over 24 hrs and IQ tests

Question 6

Results

Answer 6

All affected males had mental retardation (only 1 completed primary school) IQ85.

All unaffected males attended schooled and employed

Urine tests- lacked enzyme monoamine oxidaseA (MAOA)

DNA analysis- mutation identified in x chromosome of gene responsible for production of MAOA

Question 7

Conclusion

Answer 7

Suggests gene mutations responsible for aggressive behaviour.
Leads to deficiency in MAOA therefore impaired serotonin metabolism.
This accounts for 5 males inability to control aggression therefore increasing likelihood of committing a violent crime