Uncovering the "Anxiety Gene" and Its Off Switch
Scientists have discovered an "anxiety gene" in the brains of mice and a natural way to turn it off using microRNA. The gene suppression provided stress relief and reduced anxiety-related behavior. Anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental illness in the world, and medications can relieve symptoms, but finding the right drug or combination of drugs can be a time-consuming process of trial and error. The discovery of this anxiety gene and a natural way to put the brakes on it could serve as a blueprint for treatments to help people with anxiety disorders.
