Research finds a genetic basis for behavior in infancy, linking attachment disorganization to dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphisms. The study identifies specific variants that enhance the risk of disorganized attachment, supporting the role of DRD4 as a genetic susceptibility factor.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that maternal separation causes the death of brain cells. However, researchers discovered that fluoxetine, a type of Prozac, can reverse these changes and promote cell growth in the dentate gyrus of rats.
Research suggests a genetic link between dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphism and attachment disorganization in infants, with extensive disorganized behavior observed in up to 80% of high-risk infants. The study's findings imply a genetic susceptibility to the collapse of organized attachment under stress.
Research findings suggest that depression in children is linked to increased serotonin transporter availability, while dopamine levels are less significant. A family-based study also identifies a potential link between the DRD4 gene and ADHD, highlighting progress in understanding molecular basis of childhood mental illness.
Research reveals a strong interaction between neuroticism and the serotonin transporter gene in influencing cigarette smoking behavior. Individuals with poorly expressed serotonin transporter genotypes and high levels of neuroticism face significant challenges in quitting smoking. This study suggests personalized approaches to smoking ...
Researchers found associations between certain personality traits and a polymorphic region in the human AP-2beta gene. These traits include muscular tension, guilt, somatic anxiety, psychasthenia, and indirect aggression. The study suggests a novel approach to understanding the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders and personality.
Researchers found a significant association between the L/S and S/S alleles of the serotonin transporter gene promoter region and suicidal tendencies in individuals with unknown psychiatric diagnosis. The study suggests that genetic factors, such as the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism, may contribute to autoaggressive behavior and violent suicide.
Researchers have identified a region on rat chromosome 4 containing genes strongly affecting emotionality-related behavior, which only affects female rats. This discovery may provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying emotional disorders in women.
Researchers genetically altered mice adrenoceptor 2C expression to study stress response. The results showed differential behavioral responses in treated vs. untreated mice, as well as changes in plasma corticosterone levels and brain dopamine/serotonin content. This study highlights the importance of single-gene mutations in respondin...
Research published in Molecular Psychiatry found St. John's Wort to have a better antidepressant effect than placebo and comparable effects to standard antidepressants. The herb's favorable side effect profile may contribute to its advantages over other medications.
Researchers identify a genetic marker associated with panic disorder, linked to variations in cholecystokinin (CCK) receptor function. The study found that this variation could be a risk factor for panic attacks and may be useful in diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.
Dopamine receptor biology discovery may open new treatment avenues for conditions like schizophrenia and ADHD. The study shows a connection between dopamine, folate, and nerve cell membrane fluidity critical for normal cognition.
Researchers identified preferential transmission of alleles at the Dopamine transporter gene (DAT1), Dopamine-b-hydroxylase (DBH), and Dopamine D5 receptor (DRD5) in affected children. The findings suggest a possible genetic contribution to the disorder, with stronger transmission of associated alleles in familial cases.
A genome scan identified regions on chromosomes 2, 4, 10, 16, 17 and 18 that may contain genes influencing nicotine dependence. The study used two independent samples, with limited replication in several regions suggesting further investigation is warranted.
Researchers found a link between fruit fly gene variations and mood disorders in males, but not females. The study suggests the human homologue of the white gene may play a role in controlling mood and anxiety.
A study found that adults with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia were more likely to experience early parental loss than healthy individuals. Early loss before age 9 had a stronger impact on psychopathology in adulthood.
Research found an association between childhood-onset schizophrenia and large CAG/CTG repeats in male patients. The study confirms previous findings on adult-onset schizophrenia but notes a gender-specific link. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Researchers identified a strong association between a 12 bp mutation in a newly discovered X-chromosome gene and X-linked mental retardation. The mutation was found in 7 percent of all institutionalized mentally retarded males surveyed, as well as in higher frequency among those with Autism.
Researchers investigated whether a specific serotonin transporter gene polymorphism is associated with psychosis and hallucinations in schizophrenia. Patients with the ll genotype had significantly higher ratings for psychosis and increased intensity of hallucinations compared to those with other genotypes.
Researchers found a correlation between genetic variants and novelty-seeking and neuroticism genes in two-week-old babies. The study used the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale to assess behavioral responses to human and non-human stimuli, revealing early signs of potential psychiatric disorders.
The article discusses psychiatric genetics research funded by Nazi Germany, raising concerns about the separation of science from the scientist. Dr. Miron Baron examines the history of this research and its implications for contemporary investigators.
A population association study found a higher percentage of the 7 repeat allele and 7+ genotype in ADHD children compared to controls. The study also identified significant positive results from a family-based approach, providing additional evidence for an association between DRD4 gene and ADHD.
Research found an association between genetic variations in the serotonin-2A receptor and response to clozapine, a drug targeting serotonin receptors. Further studies support this hypothesis, suggesting that serotonin receptors play a key role in the therapeutic action of antipsychotic drugs.
Researchers have confirmed a link between a specific gene mutation and increased risk of depression, hospitalization, and suicidal attempts. The discovery aims to improve psychiatric diagnoses and treatments by enabling more precise identification of genetic predispositions.
Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a gene associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia and manic-depressive illness. The gene encodes a potassium ion channel protein that controls electrical activity in nerves, and its altered function may contribute to brain behavior changes.
Research findings show decreased benzodiazepine receptor binding in the left temporal pole among patients with GAD, indicating a potential link between brain structure and anxiety. The study's results suggest that high regional heterogeneity may be necessary for adaptation to living organisms.
The study uses genotypic selection to identify a quantitative trait locus (QTL) associated with alcohol consumption in mice. The results provide experimental confirmation of the QTL and suggest that this method can be used to determine genetic susceptibility to alcoholism.
Researchers have found a possible genetic cause of bipolar affective disorder, linking it to the serotonin transporter gene. The study suggests that variations in this gene may lead to unstable moods and increased susceptibility to the illness.
Researchers discovered novel genetic associations with ADHD, including a strong link between the dopamine transporter gene and symptoms. These findings may lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted treatments for ADHD.
A study found that low leptin levels are associated with the absence of menstruation in underweight female students. The research suggests a critical leptin level is needed to maintain menstruation, with implications for eating disorders and other physiological and psychological conditions.
Research reveals low leptin levels in restrained eaters, particularly in underweight females, who have higher cognitive restraint scores. The study found a negative correlation between leptin levels and cognitive restraint scores in these individuals.
A study examining brain tissue from suicides and controls reveals higher serotonin receptor binding in certain areas, particularly those associated with violent deaths. The findings suggest a potential link between altered serotonin function and suicidal behavior.
Female patients with acute anorexia nervosa exhibit low plasma leptin concentrations, reflecting restricted energy intake. Leptin levels increase upon weight gain, but drop again after weight loss, suggesting a complex relationship between leptin regulation and weight fluctuations in these individuals.
A study of 86 individuals with autism and their parents found a significant relationship between the serotonin transporter gene and autism. The discovery could lead to improved diagnosis and medical treatment for autism, providing hope for those affected by this complex disorder.
Researchers found no association between a serotonin transporter gene polymorphism and the tridimensional personality questionnaire's harm avoidance dimension. The study included 120 normal adult volunteers and explored relationships between the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism and various personality dimensions, including novel...
Researchers discovered a significant link between a specific genetic polymorphism and opioid dependence in humans. The long form of the dopamine D4 receptor Exon III seven repeat allele was found to be overrepresented in opioid-dependent subjects, indicating a potential genetic predisposition to addictive behavior.
A study of 129 individuals found an association between the DRD2 A1 allele and schizoid/avoidant behaviors, with severity increasing with frequency of the DRD2 A1 allele. The findings suggest a genetic link between dopamine system variations and personality traits.
Scientists from The Scripps Research Institute investigated how moderate and low doses of alcohol impact brain function. They found that c-Fos protein levels were stimulated in regions involved in emotions, motivation, and sensory processing, while selectively decreased in the hippocampus.
A study of Finnish subjects failed to find an association between the Dopamine D4 Receptor (DRD4) gene and novelty-seeking personality traits. The researchers found that individuals with higher novelty-seeking scores had a lower frequency of the DRD4 gene, contradicting previous findings.