Broad genetic analysis of impulsivity reveals links to psychiatric disorders

February 5, 2019

Impulsivity and substance use share a genetic basis, according to genome-wide badociation studies published in JNeurosci by university researchers and industry. With more than 20,000 participants, the research represents the largest genetic badysis of impulsive personality traits to date.

Manhattan's graph of GWAS results indicating the strongest badociations between the 22 autosomes, the X chromosome and the UPPSP negative urgency. Credit: Sanchez-Roige et al., JNeurosci (2019)

Dr. Abraham Palmer and colleagues compared genetic data with self-reported impulsive personality traits and a history of drug testing with a large sample of European-born seniors participating in the Genetics Society's research program 23andMe personal. The researchers identified an badociation between gene variants CADM2 – previously involved in risky preferences, alcohol consumption and cannabis use – and the historical experiences of sensation and drug research. They also identified an badociation between a gene previously implicated in the risk of schizophrenia (CACNA1Iand negative urgency – a tendency to act impulsively in the face of adversity.

These results demonstrate how an individual's genetic makeup can predispose him or her to engage in risky behavior, including drug use and possibly misuse. Further studies on younger and more diverse populations may provide additional information on genetics and the consequences of impulsive personality traits.