Genetic

• Genetic explanation for OCD


  OCD characteristics are a result of particular genes that children inherit from their parents
• Family studies on OCD


  • Relatives of OCD sufferers have a greater tendency to suffer from OCD and anxiety-related problems themselves
  • The disorder seems to be passed on from parents to offspring via DNA, which indicates a possible genetic contribution to OCD
• 10% of people with a first degree relative with OCD also suffered from the disorder compared to 2% of people in the general population
• Candidate genes for OCD


  Specific genes that have been identified that create a vulnerability for OCD
• SERT gene


  • When mutated, affects the transport of serotonin, creating lower levels of this neurotransmitter
  • If serotonin is low it prevents communication between the brain's deeper structures and the front part of the brain, which triggers OCD
• COMT gene


  • Low activity COMT gene is more common in OCD patients and leads to higher dopamine levels
  • High dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex cause anticipation of reward, driving the individual to seek rewards and this leads to compulsions