Chapter 1
DNA meets daily life
Chapter 2
The chemistry of adventure
Chapter 3
Mood and social connection
Chapter 4
Internal clocks and daily rhythms
YOUR GOAL
Master of How genes shape our behavior
Ch 2 · The chemistry of adventure
streetspirit The Wanderlust Gene
My DRD4-7R keeps my dopamine low, I chase a wild adventure just to feel the glow!
streetspirit The frequency of risk-related genes varies significantly among different human populations worldwide.
streetspirit Our brains process pleasure and motivation through dopamine, which is heavily regulated by our genetics.
BETA
streetspirit Decode DNA strands to discover how wander genes spark our daily behaviors.
Fun Fact
Wanderlust gene: The DRD4-7R gene variant is found in significantly higher numbers in populations that historically migrated the longest distances from Africa.
Glossary
dopamine (noun)
A neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a major role in regulating movement, emotion, and reward. In 1996, researchers linked variations in this chemical's receptor gene to genetic predispositions for thrill-seeking behavior.
A neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a major role in regulating movement, emotion, and reward. In 1996, researchers linked variations in this chemical's receptor gene to genetic predispositions for thrill-seeking behavior.
Quiz
Which brain region, regulated by the COMT gene, is primarily responsible for decision-making and self-control?
Quiz
Which gene variant is commonly referred to as the 'wanderlust gene' due to its link to thrill-seeking?
Quiz
A 2008 study of which nomadic Kenyan population showed that the DRD4-7R gene was beneficial for nomadic life but not settled life?
Quiz
What nickname is given to the COMT gene variant that helps people stay calm and perform well under extreme stress?
Quiz
Why do people with fewer dopamine receptors often seek out extreme sports or high-thrill activities?
Quiz
Which chemical messenger in the brain is heavily involved in regulating pleasure, motivation, and reward?
Quiz
Which gene regulates how quickly dopamine is cleared from the brain's prefrontal cortex?
Quiz
Approximately what percentage of the global population carries the DRD4-7R 'wanderlust' gene variant?