G
Genetic Archaeology
GENETIC ARCHAEOLOGY // PROFILE

MAOA

Monoamine Oxidase A

CHR X
Xp11.3

Overview

MAOA is an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Variants in this gene have become known as the “Warrior Gene,” as they can influence stress response and behavior.

📍 Chromosomal Position

Xp11.3 (Chromosome X)

🧬 Gene Category

Brain / Neurotransmitters

🔬 Inheritance

X-linked

📊 Prevalence (rs6323)

G allele (High Activity): ~35% in Europe

Function & Significance

The MAOA enzyme plays a central role in maintaining chemical balance in the brain. By breaking down excess neurotransmitters, it regulates signaling pathways important for mood, impulse control, and stress management.

🔎 The “Warrior Gene”

MAOA-L (lower activity variants) has been linked in studies to increased reactivity to provocation. Important: The impact is strongly dependent on environmental factors and life experiences.

🧬 Relevant SNP: rs6323

An important polymorphism in the MAOA gene:

rs6323
X:43656461
Allele 1

G

/

Allele 2

T

Interpretation for ancestry/raw data:
G (G/G in women): High MAOA activity (faster breakdown).
T (T/T in women): Lower MAOA activity (slower breakdown).

📚 Data Sources

  • OMIM: #309850 – Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man
  • dbSNP: rs6323 – SNP Database (NCBI)
  • PubMed: Brain-wide association of MAOA variation.

Biological Function

MAOA plays a central role in inactivating monoamines in the brain. 'Low Activity' variants (MAOA-L) lead to slower neurotransmitter breakdown, associated with increased reactivity to social provocation and stress.

Associated Conditions

Anxiety Disorders Depression ADHD
Molecular Analysis

Analyzed Markers

rs6323 Modifier/Risk Factor
Pos: X:43656461 | Alleles: G/T

rs6323 (R297R) - G-allele associated with high MAOA activity, T-allele with lower activity ('Warrior Gene').