Genetic variants in oxytocin receptor (OXTR) and vasopressin 1a receptor (AVPR1a) genes are associated with social behavior traits including autism spectrum, pair-bonding, empathy, and social anxiety in humans.
Key findingAVPR1a and OXTR genetic polymorphisms are associated with human social behavior variation: autism spectrum features, pair-bonding patterns, empathy le
What the researchers found
AVPR1a and OXTR genetic polymorphisms are associated with human social behavior variation: autism spectrum features, pair-bonding patterns, empathy levels, and social anxiety — establishing the genetic basis for neuropeptide-mediated social behavior.
Why it matters
Relevant for oxytocin, neuropeptides, anxiety-mood.
How the study worked
review study.
What this study cannot tell us
See abstract.
How to read the evidence
moderate evidence.
When this study was published
Published in 2008.
The bigger picture
Advances peptide research.
Questions still open
- Further research needed.
- Clinical translation to evaluate.
Common questions
What was studied?
What was found?
Read the original research
Molecular genetic studies of the arginine vasopressin 1a receptor (AVPR1a) and the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) in human behaviour: from autism to altruism with some notes in between.
Progress in brain research, 170, 435-49
Citation
Israel, Salomon; Lerer, Elad; Shalev, Idan; Uzefovsky, Florina; Reibold, Mathias; Bachner-Melman, Rachel; Granot, Roni; Bornstein, Gary; Knafo, Ariel; Yirmiya, Nurit; Ebstein, Richard P. (2008). Molecular genetic studies of the arginine vasopressin 1a receptor (AVPR1a) and the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) in human behaviour: from autism to altruism with some notes in between.. Progress in brain research, 170, 435-49. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0079-6123(08)00434-2