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Gene linked to happiness in women

Low expression of the MAOA gene was associated with greater happiness in women, according to study results. No such association was found in men.

The MAOA gene regulates an enzyme that breaks down serotonin, noradrenalin and dopamine neurotransmitters — chemicals that are targeted by a number of antidepressants.

Henian Chen, MD, PhD, of the University of South Florida, and colleagues analyzed data from a population-based sample of 345 men and women who were tested for the MAOA genotype in 2010. Saliva samples were taken to determine MAOA levels.

Happiness was measured using the validated, four-item Subjective Happiness Scale. The researchers used linear regression analyses to determine the association between low-expression MAOA allele and happiness.

After controlling for numerous factors such as employment status, mental disorders, household income and education, Chen and colleagues found that low expression of MAOA was related to greater happiness in women (P=.002), but not in men (P=.88). Having one MAOA allele increased women’s happiness score higher than having no MAOA allele, and having two MAOA alleles increased their reported happiness even more (P=.002).

According to Chen and colleagues, the gender difference may be explained by testosterone, which is found in lesser amounts in women. Higher levels of the hormone could cancel the effect of MAOA on happiness in men.

In a press release, Chen said he was surprised by the results, since low expression of MAOA has been associated with negative outcomes, including alcoholism, aggressiveness and antisocial behavior.

“It’s even called the warrior gene by some scientists, but, at least for women, our study points to a brighter side of this gene,” he said.

The researchers wrote that future studies should focus on how well-being is enhanced, deserving as much attention as how mental disorders arise.

Disclosure: The study was supported by the National Institute of Mental Health and the University of South Florida. The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.