Scientists from the University of Maryland discovered a gene that is responsible for bad mood. In the experiment, they blocked gene PKCI/HINT1 in lab mice and observed their behavior. They found that mice without the “sad” gene notably felt happier.
Scientists think, the gene is responsible for the production of yet unidentified protein that works opposite to endorphins and kills the mood.
If the theory comes true, this protein in going to become a target for the new generation of antidepressants. Scientists will be fighting with depression using gene therapy in future.
Source of the image: sxc.hu/profile/lusi.
