The Function of the COMT Gene

As we discussed, the COMT gene produces an enzyme that helps break down neurotransmitters. This is important because it helps your body keep these chemicals stable and balanced to help your brain and body function at its best.

For example, dopamine is linked to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. If your body does not break down dopamine quickly enough and the levels get too high, you might have too much energy, feel more anxious, and have difficulty controlling impulses. Over time, too much dopamine can cause issues like Bipolar disorder and hallucinations. On the other hand, if dopamine is broken down too quickly, it might make it difficult for you to feel pleasure or stay motivated, leading to issues like depression and problems concentrating.

There can be different versions of the COMT gene that can make the catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme work faster or slower. If you have a version that works slowly, your brain might have higher dopamine levels for longer. This could make you sharp and quick-thinking, but it might also make you more prone to stress and anxiety. Meanwhile, a faster version of this gene means dopamine is cleared away quickly, which could keep you calmer but might affect your ability to handle stress or think quickly in high-pressure situations.

One of the most understood variations of the COMT gene is called Val158Met. This version swaps one building block of the enzyme—valine (Val)—for another—methionine (Met) at the 158th spot in the enzyme’s structure. These changes, known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), can affect how well the COMT enzyme works. Basically, even a small change in how the enzyme is made up can influence how it breaks down neurotransmitters, impacting everything from how we think to how we feel.

The Role of the COMT Enzyme

As mentioned previously, the COMT gene is responsible for creating the enzyme that breaks down dopamine and similar chemicals, called catecholamines, in the brain. It does this through a process called methylation. This process is responsible for regulating how long these chemicals stay active in our brains. Since these neurotransmitters – especially dopamine – play a big role in how we learn, process information, and experience emotions, COMT enzyme activity has the ability to influence how we think, feel, and behave.

The Importance of Checking Your COMT Gene Variants

Checking your COMT genotype can be very important because it allows you to learn more about how your body processes neurotransmitters and influences your physical and mental health. One common variation in the COMT gene occurs at the v158m location. This means that the amino acid valine is replaced by a different amino acid, methionine, at the 158 position in the enzyme.

Particular gene variations can affect how you react to different situations. If you have a Met/Met variation of the gene, your COMT enzyme may have more difficulty breaking down neurotransmitters like dopamine. For example, you might find that you’re more interested in high-adrenaline activities, experience higher sensitivity to pain, and may also have a higher chance of developing addictive behaviors.

But, if you’re someone with the Val/Val variation, your COMT enzyme may be better at breaking down those chemicals, leading to lower dopamine levels. This might make you more likely to develop depression, feel helplessness, have sleep disturbances, and have anxiety due to less dopamine being in your system since your COMT gene breaks it down faster.

What is a COMT Genotype?

A COMT genotype is like a unique code for a specific gene. In this case, it’s the COMT gene. This gene acts like a blueprint that instructs your body to create an enzyme that helps break down neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine. Your COMT genotype determines which version of the enzyme it makes. The different versions can affect how well the enzyme works, influencing dopamine levels and other chemicals. Ultimately, this can impact your thinking, mood, and behavior.

What is the Amino Acid Valine?

Valine is an essential amino acid. But it’s one that our bodies can’t produce on its own. This means that we need to get it through our diet or supplements. Valine belongs to a group known as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which also includes leucine and isoleucine. These amino acids play an important role in helping our bodies produce energy.

Valine also helps with muscle repair and growth. After a workout or any physical activity that strains the muscles, valine helps our bodies repair tissue and build it back stronger. Additionally, valine is vital for maintaining good muscle coordination and endurance, making it a key nutrient if you’re an athlete or involved in any regular physical activity.

Health Disorders Linked to COMT

COMT and Schizophrenia

Recent studies on antipsychotic medications show interesting findings regarding cognitive functioning in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. What the research has shown is that individuals with the Met/Met genotype of the COMT gene often show better executive function and fewer positive symptoms of schizophrenia than those with the Val/Met or Val/Val genotypes. This suggests that a person’s specific COMT gene variant can influence how they respond to certain treatments.

COMT and Depression Treatment

In regards to treating depression, it’s interesting to see that the COMT gene might influence how well certain therapies work. Some research shows that a person’s COMT genotype may affect how they respond to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). 

Other studies show that people with another version of this gene, known as the Val/Val genotype, may be more responsive to ECT and see more improvements in their depression symptoms. Also, the COMT gene is thought to play a role in how well people perform tasks requiring executive function during tDCS therapy. This suggests that our genetic makeup can significantly influence the effectiveness of these treatments.

COMT and Bipolar Disorder

Since the COMT gene impacts the chemicals in the brain that affect mood, there has been research to show that a specific genetic variation of this gene can affect how people with bipolar disorder respond to antidepressants and their likelihood of developing psychotic symptoms. Those with the Met/Met genotype might have more of a protective advantage, which could potentially reduce the severity of mania and other dopamine-associated symptoms.

Importance of COMT Genetic Testing

COMT genetic testing can provide you with information about your unique biology and genes. By understanding the variations in your COMT gene, you can start to understand how your body responds to stress, pain, and emotional difficulties.

Knowing your COMT genotype can also provide you with options for treatment that are more focused on what your body needs. For example, if you have a variation that affects dopamine levels, your doctor might recommend medications or treatments to help adjust those levels.

Understanding your genetic predisposition to certain conditions can also empower you to take proactive steps to improve your health. By being aware of potential risks, you can make lifestyle changes or seek preventive measures.

Benefits of Getting a COMT Gene Test?

So, what are the benefits of getting this kind of genetic test? Well, not only can a COMT gene test help you better understand your health, but it can also give you a sense of relief if you’re unsure about any genetic conditions. Getting these tests can also help you find treatment to manage or avoid any chronic diseases that may be common in your family. Genetic tests can give you the information you need to make informed decisions about your health.

Conclusion

Knowing and understanding your COMT genotype can give you some idea about your health risks and how you can make the best decisions about your diet, lifestyle, and healthcare to live a healthier life.