Molecular links to callous-unemotional traits remain unclear in young people
A review of signaling molecules found mixed associations with traits involving reduced concern for others and limited emotional responsiveness, including inconsistent findings for cortisol.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The review examined whether levels of signaling molecules were associated with callous-unemotional traits in young people. Findings were mixed, including for cortisol, the molecule studied most often. Differences in measurement methods and in how adverse experiences and trait variants were considered left the evidence unclear, rather than identifying a consistent molecular pattern.
This abstract-based account provides no pooled association estimates or clear conclusions about developmental stages or sex differences. Research on inflammatory markers was sparse, and varied methods limited interpretation across studies.
What researchers measured
Researchers reviewed concentrations of molecules such as cortisol, testosterone, and oxytocin in relation to these traits. This was a question about associations between measurements and characteristics, rather than evidence that a molecule causes a particular behavior.
Why findings may differ
Studies described adversity in different ways, including recent versus more distant experiences and acute versus chronic exposure. They also gave limited attention to distinct trait variants that the authors expected might have opposing physiological patterns.
The original publication
Signaling molecules and callous-unemotional traits in young people: A systematic review and methodological and future considerations.
Goulter N, Kaouar S, Kimonis ER
Neurosci Biobehav Rev · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 40518091
- Record checked
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