Background
The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene codes for an enzyme that degrades prefrontal
cortex (PFC) synaptic dopamine. Of two identified alleles (Met and Val), the Met allele
results in COMT activity that is up to 4 times less pronounced than that conferred
by the Val allele, resulting in greater PFC dopamine concentrations. Met-Met homozygotes
perform better than individuals who possess the Val allele on PFC-mediated cognitive
tasks. These genotypic variations and their associations with executive functions
have been described in adults and prepubescent children, but there is a paucity of
research assessing these relations in adolescent samples.
Methods
In this study, 70 children aged 9–17 were genotyped for COMT and completed measures
of working memory, attention, fine motor coordination, and motor speed.
Results
COMT genotype modulated all but the motor speed measures. The Val-Met genotype was
optimal for performance in this adolescent sample.
Conclusions
Results are discussed within the context of developmental changes in the dopaminergic
system during adolescence.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 04, 2006
Accepted:
May 23,
2006
Received in revised form:
April 26,
2006
Received:
October 10,
2005
Identification
Copyright
© 2007 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
