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Brain molecule regulating human emotion, mood uncovered

Date:
August 6, 2013
Source:
RIKEN
Summary:
Scientists have discovered an enzyme called Rines that regulates MAO-A, a major brain protein controlling emotion and mood. The enzyme is a potentially promising drug target for treating diseases associated with emotions such as depression.
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A RIKEN research team has discovered an enzyme called Rines that regulates MAO-A, a major brain protein controlling emotion and mood. The enzyme is a potentially promising drug target for treating diseases associated with emotions such as depression.

Monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) is an enzyme that breaks down serotonin, norephinephrine and dopamine, neurotransmitters well-known for their influence on emotion and mood. Nicknamed the "warrior gene," a variant of the MAOA gene has been associated with increased risk of violent and anti-social behavior.

While evidence points to a link between MAO-A levels and various emotional patterns, however, the mechanism controlling MAO-A levels in the brain has remained unknown.

Now, a research team headed by Jun Aruga at the RIKEN Brain Science Institute has shown for the first time that a ligase named Rines (RING finger-type E3 ubiquitin ligase) regulates these levels. Their research shows that mice without the Rines gene exhibit impaired stress responses and enhanced anxiety, controlled in part through the regulation of MAO-A levels. The study is published today in Journal of Neuroscience.

As the first study to demonstrate regulation of MAO-A protein via the ubiquitin proteasomal system, this research presents a promising new avenue for analyzing the role of MAO-A in brain function. Further research promises insights into the treatment of anxiety, stress-related disorders and impaired social functions.


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Materials provided by RIKEN. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.


Journal Reference:

  1. Kabayama et al. Rines E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Regulates MAO-A Levels and Emotional Responses. Journal of Neuroscience, 2013 DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.5717-12.2013

Cite This Page:

RIKEN. "Brain molecule regulating human emotion, mood uncovered." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 6 August 2013. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130806203325.htm>.
RIKEN. (2013, August 6). Brain molecule regulating human emotion, mood uncovered. ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 28, 2024 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130806203325.htm
RIKEN. "Brain molecule regulating human emotion, mood uncovered." ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130806203325.htm (accessed March 28, 2024).

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