Parental care moderates the influence of MAOA-uVNTR genotype and childhood stressors on trait impulsivity and aggression in adult women.

Objectives: Adverse childhood experiences are associated with poor mental health outcomes, including vulnerability to mood disorders and/or antisocial behavior. A functional polymorphism in the regulatory region of the monoamine oxidase A gene (monoamine oxidase A untranslated variable nucleotide tandem repeat, MAOA-uVNTR) may moderate the degree of risk conferred by early trauma. Experiential factors may mitigate or exacerbate the effects of trauma on individuals at genetic risk.