Its In Their DNA To Kill...
Could the genetical information passed down through generations impact the behaviour of a person to undertake such cruel actions repeatedly?
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Tiihonen, a professor at the department of Clinical Neurobiology at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden was head of research into the genetic makeup of a serial killer. In 2015 his research showed that there is a gene which links genetics to violence. Being in possession of this high-risk violence gene, MAOA, (scientifically known as Monoamine Oxidase - A , but more commonly known as the "Warrior Gene") has also been found to be a common factor within psychopathic killers.
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The MAOA gene is sex linked. Existing in the X chromosome makes males more prone to having it. This is because men only have one copy of the gene whereas women have two so they are able to balance out the activity of the MAOA gene in the other X chromosome. According to scientific research, people with this gene are over exposed to Serotonin as it acts as a catalyst that oxidadises the deamination of amines. This essentially affects the efficiency of the neurotransmitter which usually calms the brain. It then becomes neutralised by this overexposure. The foetus develops immunity to it, so in turn the control of anger and stress relief is impotent in later life. This therefore can have a significant impact on the behaviour and actions of a person.
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Not only did Tiihonen find the MAOA gene, he also discovered in his sample of 846 prisoners that the CDH13 gene (Cadherin 13) which is responsible for the development of connections between neurons in the brain, playing a key role in the development of attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome or more commonly known as ADHD, were also main factors in the prisoners DNA.
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It turned out that all samples of the DNA given by the prisoners contained one or both versions of the MAOA gene or CDH13 gene. Those in possession of both versions of the gene are thirteen times more likely to commit particularly serious crimes, unlike those who are not in possession of any.
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Tiihonen also explained how, "if the natural levels of dopamine in the body is reduced, it's content in the brain can increase significantly after taking alcohol, cocaine or amphetamines. These substances may provoke a dopamine explosion and aggression."
In other words, adding alcohol and other chemicals in the form of a drug to a person whom have the genes, presents you with the "perfect recipe" for a serial killer.
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