COMT

Description

The COMT gene, located on chromosome 22, provides instructions for making catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), an enzyme crucial for the breakdown of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. This process, called catecholamine metabolism, is vital for regulating brain function, mood, and pain perception. Variations in the COMT gene can affect enzyme activity, potentially influencing an individual‘s susceptibility to certain conditions.

Associated Diseases

• Schizophrenia
• Parkinson‘s disease
• Alzheimer‘s disease
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Pain sensitivity
• Addiction

Did you know?

A common COMT gene variant, called Val158Met, is associated with differences in pain perception, with individuals carrying the Met allele experiencing greater sensitivity to pain.