Genes and Serotonin - Brunner

Question 1

Aim of Brunner

Answer 1

Explain the behaviour of a large family in the Netherlands where the males suffer by a syndrome of borderline mental retardation and abnormal behaviour

• Attempted rape
• Exhibitionism
• Arson
• Impulsive behaviour

Question 2

Method of Brunner

Answer 2

Quasi experiment - data analysis of urine over 24 hours

Question 3

Participants of Brunner

Answer 3

5 affected males

Question 4

Results of Brunner

Answer 4

• Urine tests = lack of enzyme MAOA

- All had point mutation in X chromosome responsible for production of MAOA

Question 5

Conclusion of Brunner

Answer 5

• Affected gene is the cause of mental retardation and aggressive behaviour
• MAOA deficiency accounts for their inability to regulate aggression