Mild internet use is associated with epigenetic alterations of key neurotransmission genes in salivary DNA of young university students.

ABSTRACT: The potentially problematic use of the Internet is a growing concern worldwide, which causes and consequences are not completely understood yet. The neurobiology of Internet addiction (IA) has attracted much attention in scientific research, which is now focusing on identifying measurable biological markers. Aim of this study was to investigate epigenetic and genetic regulation of oxytocin receptor (OXTR), dopamine transporter (DAT1) and serotonin transporter (SERT) genes using DNA obtained from saliva samples of young university students: the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) was administered to evaluate the potential existence and intensity of IA. Significant changes in DNA methylation levels at OXTR, DAT1 and SERT genes were observed in the 30 < IAT < 49 group (mild-risk internet users) com

SUBMITTER: Annunzi E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10719329 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature