09/03/2026
Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) genotyping is a molecular test used to identify genetic variants in the COMT gene, which encodes an enzyme involved in the metabolism of catecholamines, including dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. One commonly evaluated variant is Val158Met (rs4680), which can alter COMT enzyme activity and influence catecholamine metabolism. Genotyping may help investigate interindividual differences in neurotransmitter metabolism and has been studied in relation to pain sensitivity, psychiatric conditions, cognition, and response to certain medications. The test is typically performed using DNA extracted from whole blood or buccal specimens, followed by PCR-based or sequencing methods.