Uncover the emerging research on the role of monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) deficiency in aggression and antisocial behavior, and how this knowledge is shaping new therapeutic approaches. This presentation will provide an overview of current treatments for aggression, delve into the function of the MAOA enzyme and its potential link to aggressive behavior, and highlight ongoing research targeting MAOA. Additionally, we’ll explore the potential use of pimavanserin in managing agitation and aggression, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, offering new insights for enhancing patient care.
Target Audience
If you are a pharmacist, nurse practitioner, or other health care professional involved in the comprehensive medication management of individuals living with mental health and/or substance use disorders, we invite you to participate in this online course.
Course Requirements
To receive ACPE credit for this session, you must:
- Register for this course.
- Review the full content of the activity and reflect upon its teachings.
- Complete the evaluation at the end of the activity.
- Provide the necessary details in your profile to ensure correct reporting by AAPP to CPE Monitor.
Faculty Information
View biographical information
Marco Bortolato, MD, PhD
Professor, Dept. of Pharmacodynamics
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Marco Bortolato, M.D., Ph.D., is a Professor of Pharmacodynamics at the University of Florida. He earned his M.D. with a specialization in Neuropathophysiology and holds dual Ph.D. degrees in Pharmacology and Neuroscience. Previously, he served as a Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology in Schools and Colleges of Pharmacy at institutions including the University of Southern California, University of Kansas, and University of Utah. His research focuses on neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly pathological aggression, Tourette syndrome, and autism spectrum disorder. His work has been instrumental in uncovering the role of monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) in aggression, demonstrating how genetic predispositions and environmental factors interact to shape social behaviors.
Learning Objectives
- Identify current pharmacologic and therapeutic treatments for aggression and antisocial behavior.
- Describe the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) enzyme, including its function and possible role in aggression.
- Explain current research into MAOA as a target for aggression.
- Discuss the possible role of serotonin 2A antagonists in the treatment of agitation and aggression in autism spectrum disorder.
Continuing Education Credit and Disclosures
Activity Dates: 04/29/2025 - 04/29/2028
ACPE Contact Hours: 1
ACPE Number: 0284-0000-25-015-H01-P (Knowledge)
Nursing Credit Reminder: Note that ACPE credit is accepted for ANCC Certification Renewal and AANPCB advanced practice provider content. For specific questions related to your organization's acceptance of ACPE continuing education units, please contact your organization directly.
The American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.
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View disclaimer and disclosure of off-label use
Off-Label Use: This educational activity may contain discussion of published and/or investigational uses of agents that are not indicated by the FDA (see faculty information). The opinions expressed in the educational activity do not necessarily represent the views of AAPP and any educational partners. Please refer to the official prescribing information for each product for discussion of approved indications, contraindications, and warnings.
Disclaimer: Participants have an implied responsibility to use the newly acquired information to enhance patient outcomes and their own professional development. Any procedures, medications, or other courses of diagnosis or treatment discussed or suggested in this activity should not be used by clinicians without evaluation of their patient’s conditions and possible contraindications on dangers in use, review of any applicable manufacturer’s product information, and comparison with recommendations of other authorities. Please refer to the official prescribing information for each product for discussion of approved indications, contraindications, and warnings.
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It is the policy of AAPP to ensure independence, balance, objectivity, scientific rigor, and integrity in continuing education activities. Those involved in the development of this continuing education activity have made all reasonable efforts to ensure that information contained herein is accurate in accordance with the latest available scientific knowledge at the time of accreditation of this continuing education activity. Information regarding drugs (e.g., their administration, dosages, contraindications, adverse reactions, interactions, special warnings, and precautions) and drug delivery systems is subject to change, however, and the reader is advised to check the manufacturer’s package insert for information concerning recommended dosage and potential problems or cautions prior to dispensing or administering the drug or using the drug delivery systems.
Fair balance is achieved through ongoing and thorough review of all materials produced by faculty, and all educational and advertising materials produced by supporting organizations, prior to educational offerings. Approval of credit for this continuing education activity does not imply endorsement by AAPP for any product or manufacturer identified.