Low Dopamine Symptoms – Could Your Genes Be Involved?

We look at over 900,000 SNP’s and use the latest AI powered software to analyse over 80 million variants that significantly influence your health.

If you’re feeling unmotivated, mentally flat or unfocused, you may be experiencing symptoms linked to low dopamine activity. While lifestyle plays a big role, your genetics may also affect how much dopamine is available and how efficiently it’s used in the brain.

Life X DNA™ reports include analysis of key genes involved in dopamine production, signalling and breakdown. Our at-home DNA kits are available across Australia and New Zealand and help you explore how your biology may influence baseline dopamine levels.

Genetic Methylation Tests Melbourne

Why Do I Get Mood Swings After Eating?

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that supports motivation, reward, memory and drive. When activity is low, symptoms may include:

  • Lack of energy or initiative
  • Low motivation to complete tasks
  • Blunted emotional response

  • Difficulty focusing or retaining information
  • Sugar or stimulant cravings

These symptoms are non-specific, but if persistent, they may be influenced by underlying biochemical or genetic factors.

Can Low Dopamine Be Genetic?

Yes. Several genes influence dopamine metabolism, including how it’s produced, transported, received by brain cells and eventually broken down.

Key genes include:

  • COMT – regulates dopamine breakdown in the prefrontal cortex
  • MAOA – breaks down dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine
  • DRD2 – codes for dopamine receptors
  • SLC6A3 (DAT1) – regulates dopamine reuptake
  • GCH1 and TH – support dopamine synthesis from amino acids

Variations in these genes may affect dopamine tone, particularly under stress or nutrient insufficiency.

MTHFR Tests Melbourne
DNA Health Tests Melbourne

Genetic Testing for Dopamine Regulation

Life X DNA™ testing provides insight into:

  • Dopamine breakdown and clearance speed
  • Receptor sensitivity and signalling efficiency
  • Neurotransmitter balance (dopamine-serotonin-norepinephrine axis)
  • Nutrient dependencies for dopamine production (e.g. B6, iron, folate)

These results don’t diagnose mental health conditions, but they may help explain why you feel mentally unmotivated or emotionally flat, even with rest and support.

What’s Covered in Your Life X DNA™ Report

The dopamine-related content spans several key categories:

  • COMT, MAOA, DRD2 and other mood-regulating genes
  • Methylation and cofactor metabolism for dopamine production
  • Stress pathway overlap with dopamine clearance
  • Over 1200 pages of secure, personalised reporting

All kits are processed in our ISO-certified lab in Perth, with private digital access.

MTHFR Tests Sydney

Available in Australia and New Zealand

Life X DNA™ kits are available throughout Australia and New Zealand. Shipping and return are included, and your data is never shared or sold.

FAQs – Dopamine and Genetics

Yes. Genes involved in dopamine production, breakdown and signalling can all influence how much dopamine is available and how your brain responds to it.

Symptoms may include low motivation, focus issues, emotional flatness and cravings. Your report may offer insight into why those occur.

We assess COMT, MAOA, DRD2, SLC6A3 and others that influence dopamine tone and regulation.

Order your kit online, complete your cheek swab at home, and return it to our Perth lab. Results are securely available through your Life X DNA™ portal.