Researchers used a Gene manipulation technology to delete the P4h-tm gene from mice and made an unexpected discovery. These mice showed increased courage, lower anxiety and fear and also increased social interaction behavior.

This is an interesting discovery because since the P4h-tm gene is highly expressed in the amygdala which is a key brain region involved in controlling emotional reactions.

While, gene deletion techniques are pretty far from having any therapeutic application, it can certainly help in development of new antianxiety and antidepressant drugs.

Read the full story: University of Eastern Finland
Scientific publication: Neuropharmacology