warrior gene

American  

[wawr-ee-er jeen, wawr-yer, wor-ee-er, wor-yer] / ˈwɔr i ər ˌdʒin, ˈwɔr jər, ˈwɒr i ər, ˈwɒr jər /

noun

Biochemistry.

1. a type A monoamine oxidase (MAOA) gene, in which the normal breakdown of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine is impaired, resulting in elevated levels of these brain chemicals, which have been linked to correspondingly elevated levels of aggressive behavior.

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Etymology

Origin of warrior gene

First recorded in 2000–05

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

warrior gene

It declined to dig into the research and warn other courts across the country about the speciousness of the warrior gene theory.

From Washington Post ● Mar. 18, 2021

The tabloid press loves stories about the so-called warrior gene, the Alzheimer’s gene, a gene to make us a world-class sprinter or fall in love with someone of the same IQ.

From National Geographic ● Dec. 19, 2017

Besides the warrior gene, Jim says he inherited genes associated with antisocial behavior, low anxiety, and low empathy.

From Salon ● Mar. 9, 2014

Some people's anger could be exacerbated by the presence of a "warrior" gene, Monoamine oxidase A, says Fisher.

From BBC ● Apr. 23, 2013

Even disregarding the issue of whether giving someone hot sauce counts as "physical aggression," McDermott's study provides little to no evidence for the warrior gene, because the difference between carriers and noncarriers was minuscule.

From Scientific American ● Apr. 26, 2011