Explaining OCD

Question 1

What two genes are mutated in people with OCD?

Answer 1

• SERT gene (serotonin transporter)

- COMT gene (regulates function of dopamine)

Question 2

Describe the SERT gene mutation.

Answer 2

• Mutation causes an increase of transporter proteins at a neuron’s membrane.
• This leads to an increased reuptake of serotonin into neuron.
• And so this decreases the level of serotonin in the synapse.

Question 3

Describe the COMT gene mutation.

Answer 3

• Mutation causes a decrease in COMT activity

- Therefore, there is a higher level of dopamine

Question 4

What neurotransmitters are linked to OCD?

Answer 4

Low serotonin and increased dopamine

Question 5

What does serotonin do?

Answer 5

Serotonin is an inhibitory neurotransmitter which regulates mood.

Question 6

What has high levels of dopamine been linked to?

Answer 6

High levels of dopamine has been linked to increased concentration (so could explain OCD individuals inability to stop focusing on obsessive thoughts and repetitive behaviours).

Question 7

What is the function of the prefrontal cortex?

Answer 7

PFC is involved in decision making and regulation of primitive aspects of our behaviour.

Question 8

What happens when you have an overactive PFC?

Answer 8

Overactive PFC = exaggerated control of primal impulses