New Study Links Impulsivity Genes to Multiple Health Risks

Research has uncovered a significant connection between impulsive behaviours and a range of health conditions, including mental health disorders and obesity. A recent study suggests that the genetic basis for impulsivity may influence various health risks throughout an individual’s life.

Scientists have long recognised the hereditary nature of impulsivity-related traits, which can be passed down from parents to children. The study, led by Sandra Sanchez-Roige, an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of California San Diego, delves into the biological mechanisms that underpin this connection.

The research team analysed genome-wide data from nearly 135,000 participants who used the at-home DNA testing service, 23andMe. They identified 73 health traits linked to impulsive decision-making, specifically focusing on a concept known as delay discounting. This term refers to the tendency to favour smaller, immediate rewards over larger, future benefits.

Among the health traits identified are those associated with substance use, depression, executive function, chronic pain, heart health, obesity, immune system issues, and insomnia. The findings, published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry, highlight a complex interplay of biological processes that connect impulsivity to these various conditions.

The study’s authors noted that several implicated genes play crucial roles in dopamine signalling, brain structure, and metabolic pathways related to neural growth. To explore the real-world implications of their findings, the researchers developed genetic risk scores for delay discounting and examined health outcomes for over 66,000 individuals.

The results revealed strong associations between these genetic risk scores and 212 medical issues, which included type 2 diabetes, chronic pain, and heart disease. According to Sanchez-Roige, these findings suggest that “delay discounting is measurable, highly heritable, and relevant to many aspects of health,” affecting brain development, cognition, and overall physical well-being.

Looking ahead, the researchers advocate for further studies to determine whether the genes associated with delay discounting are causative factors for other health issues. They also highlight the importance of examining environmental influences on impulsivity, such as education levels, which may provide insights into improving health outcomes.

“By continuing to investigate this fundamental decision-making process, we may uncover new ways to prevent or treat a wide range of conditions,” Sanchez-Roige stated. This research not only advances our understanding of impulsivity but also opens up potential avenues for targeted health interventions in the future.