COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase)
COMT is an enzyme that breaks down stress hormones and neurotransmitters like dopamine and adrenaline. Your genetic variant determines whether you're a 'Warrior' (slow COMT) or a 'Worrier' (fast COMT).
Deep Dive
The COMT gene produces an enzyme responsible for metabolising catecholamines — a class of neurotransmitters that includes dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. The speed at which this enzyme works is determined by a well-studied SNP known as Val158Met (rs4680).
Individuals with the 'Met/Met' genotype (slow COMT) break down dopamine up to four times more slowly. This means higher baseline dopamine levels, which can produce exceptional focus, creativity, and pain sensitivity. However, it also means these individuals are more susceptible to anxiety, overstimulation, and difficulty tolerating stress. They tend to perform brilliantly in calm environments but can crumble under pressure.
Those with the 'Val/Val' genotype (fast COMT) clear dopamine rapidly. They tend to be resilient under stress — the classic 'Warrior' phenotype — but may struggle with motivation, attention, and reward-seeking behaviour in everyday life. Understanding your COMT status allows you to design your environment, diet, and supplementation to optimise your neurochemistry rather than fight against it.