Epigenetics of generalized internet use disorder including data on overuse of social media: a closer look at the SLC6A4, NR3C1 and OXT genes - Takeaways - MDSpire
Coming Soon: Introducing MDSpire News. Learn more
Conexiant’s news site is now MDSpire News. Learn more

Epigenetic Features of Generalized Internet Use Disorder and Social Media Overuse: Examining SLC6A4, NR3C1, and OXT

  • By

  • Christian Montag

  • Markus Kiefer

  • Bernhard J. Connemann

  • Thomas Kammer

  • Simon Sanwald

  • October 14, 2026

Share

  • 1

    The study examined DNA methylation in SLC6A4, NR3C1, and OXT in relation to generalized Internet use disorder and social media overuse.

  • 2

    The authors framed epigenetic analysis as a way to investigate how environmental factors may interact with genetic factors in Internet use disorder.

  • 3

    Prior findings linking SLC6A4 to Internet use disorder were heterogeneous, and the study examined methylation in this gene.

  • 4

    NR3C1 and OXT methylation were explored because of prior findings in other conditions, although their involvement in Internet use disorder was not established.

  • 5

    The investigation included healthy and depressed samples assessed across 2 weeks and hypothesized that methylation might change during early treatment.

Original Source(s)

Epigenetics of generalized internet use disorder including data on overuse of social media: a closer look at the SLC6A4, NR3C1 and OXT genes

  • by Christian Montag, Markus Kiefer, Bernhard J. Connemann, Thomas Kammer, Simon Sanwald

  • October 14, 2026

Related Content

Moral luck, shame, and which errors attract sanction: an alternative reading of the Japan–US comparison of second victim syndrome

Secretary Kennedy Announces 8 Communities to Receive $96 Million Through New STREETS Program

Loneliness linked to fewer mental disease-free years

A healthy lifestyle was associated with a smaller loss of disease-free life expectancy related to social isolation, but the same pattern did not hold for loneliness.