Effects of childhood trauma on aggressive behaviors and hippocampal function: the modulation of COMT haplotypes

Abstract Aggression is a commonly hostile behavior linked to the hippocampal activity. Childhood trauma (CT) exposure has been associated with altered sensitization of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and volume, which could increase violent aggressive behaviors. Additionally, Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), major dopamine metabolism enzyme, implicated in stress responsivity, including aggression. Hence, CT may affect aggression through effect on function, might also be modulated by COMT variations. Using resting state functional MRI behavioral questionnaires, this study examined whether both haplotypes moderate function thus human behavior. Three were generated from thirteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within gene formed three corresponding high, medium, low enzymatic activity COMT. The results showed interactive relationships between Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) respect connectivity (FC) bilateral hippocampus (HIP)-orbital frontal cortex (OFC). Specifically, experience predicted lower negative HIP-OFC coupling APS HPS medium high COMT, but greater FC LPS We observed conditional mediation right link that was moderated experience. These suggest have combined function. This analysis sheds light influence childhood different genetic backgrounds.