A Common Genetic Etiology for Impulsivity and Overeating

Abstract

In its most basic form impulsivity, a heritable trait, is defined as a tendency to act without control and has been implicated in the onset, symptomatic expression, and maintenance of overeating. Specifically, high impulsivity and its related constructs such as poor inhibitory control and high sensitivity for reward and environmental cues have been shown to perpetuate binging and overeating. Thus, several studies have been conducted to investigate the possible common genetic etiologies for high impulsivity and overeating. The purpose of this review is to summarize the genetic findings indicating an association between impulsivity and overeating.