How are COMT and stress related?

COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) breaks down dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex, key neurotransmitters in the stress response. The well-studied Val158Met polymorphism (rs4680) alters enzyme activity: the Val variant (high activity) leads to faster dopamine clearance, while the Met variant (low activity) results in higher dopamine levels. Research indicates that under acute stress, Met carriers may exhibit better cognitive performance but also greater anxiety and emotional reactivity. Val carriers tend to be more resilient to stress but may have lower cognitive flexibility and higher risk of burnout under chronic stress. These effects are modest and influenced by factors like sex, age, and environment. A MyBody-X DNA test can detect this variant, but results are not a clinical diagnosis and should not be used alone to guide stress management or supplementation. Evidence is human-moderate: based on observational studies and meta-analyses, but lacking large-scale randomized trials. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.