Polymorphic variation in the SLC5A7 gene influences infant autonomic reactivity and self-regulation: A neurobiological model for ANS stress responsivity and infant temperament

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is one of the earliest developing stress response systems, with evidence of reactivity even in utero. (Monk et al., 2000) ANS reactivity indexes an individual ’s adaptability to the environment and reactivity patterns are differentially associated with risks for both physical and mental illness across the life span. (Boyce and Ellis, 2005; Graziano and Derefinko, 2013; Porges, 2007; Porges and Furman, 2011) The ANS response to environmental stimuli is b alanced by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Source: Psychoneuroendocrinology - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Source Type: research