9. Genetics: Are Some People More Susceptible?
Emerging research suggests that genetic differences may influence how strongly individuals respond to placebo treatments. Specific variations in genes affecting dopamine and serotonin pathways are linked to heightened sensitivity to belief-based therapies.
This discovery could explain why some people experience dramatic benefits while others notice little effect, adding a new layer of complexity to the science of healing. Read more in this Nature article exploring the genetics of placebo responsiveness.