Local researchers have found the cause behind our impulses.... and such findings could lead to new treatments of mental disorders and prevent impulsive crimes.
Park Se-young tells us more.
Impulsive crimes and murders are becoming a huge social problem in Korea.
Now, local researchers have found that activating a specific type of nerve cell in the brain can help control such impulses.
This mouse has difficulties staying still inside the cage.
When the optical fiber cable connected to the mouse's head is exposed to a laser, the mouse calms down immediately.
The laser activates the dopamine D2 receptor in the amygdala, which plays an important role in emotions and feelings, and controls impulsive behavior.

"While looking into studies of brain images and impulsivity tests, we found that the scientists often mentioned the amygdala. Through experiments on animals, we saw impulsive actions are specifically controlled by the D2 receptor."

When tested on mice, their impulsive actions were reduced by nearly 70 percent.
The researchers say utilizing such principles can contribute to the treatment of mental disorders and development of new medicines.
Park Se-young, Arirang News.