Are You a Warrior?
IN SPORTS OR BUSINESS, HOW DO YOU RESPOND TO STRESS? IS THE ANSWER IN YOUR GENES?
Human behavior is complex and influenced by our genes, our environment, and our circumstances. One of the most provocative and often controversial of genetic variants has been dubbed the "Warrior Gene."
Located on the X-chromosome, the MAOA gene is one of many genes that play a part in our behavioral responses. The "Warrior Gene" variant reduces function in the MAOA gene.
Studies have linked the "Warrior Gene" to increased risk-taking and to retaliatory behavior. Men with the "Warrior Gene" are not necessarily more aggressive, but they are more likely to respond aggressively to a perceived conflict.
Because men have one copy of the X-chromosome, a variant that reduces the function of this gene has more of an influence on them. Women, having two X-chromosomes, are more likely to have at least one normally functioning gene copy, and variants in women have not been studied as extensively.
This test is now available for both men and women.
Sabol et al, 1998 contains additional details about the "Warrior Gene" variant.
Note: Among the many advances and discoveries of modern DNA and genetics are 'scientific' oddities. These genetic wonders make it into popular culture and develop a life there that far outpaces their academic worth. These factoids are best used as 'cocktail conversation' starters. We present them to our customers as just that.
Which Test to Take
Monoamine Oxidase A (Warrior Gene) - Click here to order.
The Warrior Gene is a variant of the gene MAO-A on the X chromosome. Recent studies have linked the Warrior Gene to increased risk-taking and aggressive behavior. Whether in sports, business, or other activities, scientists found that individuals with the Warrior Gene variant were more likely to be combative than those with the normal MAO-A gene. However, human behavior is complex and influenced by many factors, including genetics and our environment. Individuals with the Warrior Gene are not necessarily more aggressive, but according to scientific studies, are more likely to be aggressive than those without the Warrior Gene variant. This test is available for both men and women, however, there is limited research about the Warrior Gene variant amongst females. Additional details about the Warrior Gene genetic variant of MAO-A can be found in Sabol et al, 1998.