Work

Unselfish genes? The quest to uncover genomic influences on prosocial behavior

Year: 2013

Type: editorial

Abstract: In the current commentary, we discuss Stoltenberg and colleagues' finding (reported in this issue) that variation in the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) is associated with prosocial behavior via effects on anxiety in social situations. We note how their results are consistent with evidence from the psychopharmacological literature and illustrate how a mediational framework can inform understanding of genetic and psychological associations, and we suggest that future studies that manipulate social context could further elucidate the relationship between genes involved in serotonin regulation and prosocial behavior.

Source: Social Neuroscience

DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2013.832372

Authors: Kyle G. Ratner, Baldwin M. Way

Institution: The Ohio State University

Language: English

Topic: Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences