Behavior Genetics
Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
Non-coding gene linked to core social and behavioral traits in Autism, major SickKids-led study finds
Genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed, massive Swedish study reveals
A massive Swedish study of over 2 million individuals reveals that genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed. Schizophrenia shows the highest genetic specificity, while drug use disorder has a much lower specificity, scattering its genetic risk across multiple conditions.
Tokyo Bay’s night lights reveal hidden boundaries between species
A new study explores how artificial lighting at night shapes ecological and genetic patterns of two closely related isopod species, Ligia laticarpa and L. furcata, in Tokyo Bay. The research reveals a clear ecological boundary between the two species, consistent with patterns of urban illumination.
Genetics help explain who gets the ‘telltale tingle’ from music, art and literature
A study by Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics found that genetic variations account for approximately 30% of the variation in experiencing aesthetic chills. The research also identified shared genetic influences across music, poetry, and visual art, linked to broader personality traits like openness to experience.
Chronic alcohol use reshapes gene expression in key human brain regions linked to relapse vulnerability and neural damage
Chronic alcohol consumption alters endocannabinoid gene expression in reward- and decision-related brain regions, offering insights into addiction biology. This study reveals changes in CB1 and CB2 receptor genes, as well as GPR55 and FAAH enzymes, potentially leading to targeted therapeutic strategies.
Schizophrenia and osteoporosis share 195 genetic loci, highlighting unexpected biological bridges between brain and bone
A comprehensive genetic investigation by Dr. Feng Liu and collaborators identifies shared genetic loci between schizophrenia and osteoporosis, suggesting overlapping biological pathways. The study found that psychiatric patients face elevated fracture risks due to these molecular connections.
Global psychiatry mourns Professor Dan Stein, visionary who transformed mental health science across Africa and beyond
Professor Dan Stein was a visionary who bridged neuroscience, clinical care, and philosophy to transform psychiatric research in Africa. His integrative approach produced scholarship of extraordinary range, with over 1,600 peer-reviewed publications and a Google Scholar h-index exceeding 220.
Is aging an act of genetic sabotage for the greater good? Scientists find a gene that turns off food detection after reproduction
Researchers identified a gene that actively causes a decline in food-seeking behavior after reproduction, potentially benefiting the population by reducing competition for resources. This discovery challenges traditional views on aging and offers new insights into programmed mechanisms driving age-related decline.
Familial patterns in criminal conviction risk observed among individuals with ADHD
A large-scale study found that individuals with ADHD are at higher risk of being convicted of crimes compared to those without ADHD. Relatives of individuals with ADHD also show increased risk, even if they themselves do not have ADHD. Early identification and treatment of ADHD in high-risk families may help mitigate these risks.
Sweeping study shows similar genetic factors underlie multiple psychiatric disorders
A recent study has identified five categories of psychiatric disorders that share similar genetic factors, including compulsive features, internalizing conditions, substance use disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and a category combining bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The research suggests that these shared genetic factors ...
New statistical tools sharpen the search for causal DNA changes in livestock
Researchers developed a new suite of statistical methods to pinpoint DNA changes responsible for important traits in livestock. The work addresses challenges in fine-mapping, especially in populations with closely related animals, and introduces tools that incorporate 'relatedness-adjusted' genomic correlations.
The global solution and blowup of a equation modeled from the water wave problem with critical growth
Researchers prove that solutions with low-energy initial values decay exponentially, while those exceeding the energy threshold blow up in finite time. The study employs concentration-compactness principle to establish regularity for global solutions.
Golden retriever and human behaviours are driven by same genes
Researchers identified 12 genes linked to canine behaviour also associated with human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The study provides insights into understanding dog emotional worlds and tailoring training or care to suit their needs.
Parental monitoring is linked to fewer teen conduct problems despite genetic risk
Researchers found consistent parental monitoring can offset genetic risk for developing behavior problems during adolescence. High levels of parental monitoring appeared to buffer the influence of genetic risk, making a measurable difference even for children who are more vulnerable biologically.
New insights into SETBP1 variants reveal mechanisms behind neurodevelopmental disorders
Researchers studied 18 individuals with non-degron SETBP1 variants, revealing a distinct disorder with wide range of cognitive, speech and motor impairments. Functional experiments showed that many variants disrupt DNA-binding, transcription and neuronal differentiation capacity.
Genetic inflammation markers reveal distinct depression subtypes affecting treatment response
Researchers identified a genetic inflammatory signature that defines specific depression subtypes and influences antidepressant outcomes. Higher CRP polygenic scores were associated with reduced weight and appetite loss, earlier age of onset, and lower employment status after treatment.
Uncovering links between depression and hypertension in African populations
Research in African populations aims to understand the link between depression and hypertension, two conditions affecting millions worldwide. The study will focus on identifying shared genetic mechanisms, which could lead to more effective treatment strategies for complex diseases.
Drinking any amount of alcohol likely increases dementia risk
A large observational study found a U-shaped association between alcohol consumption and dementia risk, with non-drinkers and heavy drinkers at higher risk. Genetic analyses also showed that increased genetic risk for all three exposure levels was associated with an increased risk of dementia.
Mouse neurons that identify friends in need and friends indeed
Researchers at Kobe University have discovered a specific set of neurons that direct mice's attention to peers in need and those who are friends. These 'PV interneurons' play a crucial role in modulating social behavior, including empathy and preference for social targets.
First transfer of behavior between species through single gene manipulation
Researchers successfully transferred a gift-giving courtship behavior from Drosophila subobscura to Drosophila melanogaster by manipulating a single gene in insulin-producing neurons. This study represents the first example of transferring behavior between species through genetic manipulation.
Behavior drives morphological change during primate evolution
Early primates transitioned to grass-based diets without typical adaptations, with changes in dental morphology lagging behavioral shifts by 700,000 years. This supports the concept of behavioral drive in primate evolution, suggesting that behavior can precede and initiate morphological specialization.
Breakthrough genetic study points to neurological mechanisms for chronic cough
A new genetic study has identified genes involved in neuronal signalling and sensory pathways as key drivers of chronic cough. The findings advance our understanding of cough reflex hypersensitivity as a nervous system-mediated process, opening up opportunities for targeted treatments.
Fear in sync: Collective survival through neurogenomic diversity
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that genetic diversity within groups of fruit flies improves their ability to evade predators and forage more efficiently. The research team identified a key gene, Ptp99A, that regulates group behavior and promotes survival performance.
What can tiny molecules in ants and naked mole-rats tell us about societal roles?
Researchers have discovered two signaling molecules that can reprogram ant duties, mirroring gene-expression patterns found in eusocial naked mole-rats. These findings suggest a convergent molecular mechanism dating back hundreds of millions of years, hinting at the evolutionary depth of social behavior.
Renowned psychiatrist illuminates biological roots of mental illness through pioneering research
Professor Benedetti's research explores the intersection of genetics, environmental factors, and treatment response in mood disorders. His work has led to breakthroughs in chronotherapeutics and immuno-psychiatry, revealing crucial insights into immune-inflammatory mechanisms and gene variants influencing brain function.
Pioneering ADHD researcher reveals biological pathways linking genes to behavior
ADHD researcher Barbara Franke's work transforms understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative molecular approaches. Her research combines cutting-edge bioinformatics with experimental models to identify genes and pathways underlying behavioral differences.
A head and a hundred tails: how a branching worm manages reproductive complexity
Researchers created first complete genetic activity map of a branching worm, revealing how it controls reproduction across its multiple body branches. The study highlights the unique genetic toolkit and challenges understanding of animal bodies' organization.
Unlocking the genetic basis of animal behavior using fruit flies
A comprehensive dataset captures individual and group behaviors across genetically diverse strains of fruit flies, shedding light on how genes shape animal behavior. The study's findings have potential implications for mental health conditions with known or suspected genetic components.
Puberty triggers brain rewiring in genetic condition tied to autism
Researchers have found that puberty triggers significant changes in brain connectivity patterns in individuals with a rare genetic disorder tied to autism. The study suggests that synaptic dysfunction during development may contribute to the condition's behavioral challenges.
Genetic predisposition to sedentary behavior increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases
A new study found that genetic predisposition to sedentary behavior is associated with a higher risk of developing the most common cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with the highest genetic predisposition accumulated more daily sedentary time and had a 20% higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Face processing abnormalities identified in autism dog model
A new study has revealed that Beagle dogs carrying mutations in the Shank3 gene exhibit face processing abnormalities, similar to those observed in human ASD patients. The research provides direct experimental evidence that mutations in Shank3 lead to ASD-like deficits in face processing, contributing to social impairments.
A novel AI-based method reveals how cells respond to drug treatments
A novel AI-based method called scNET combines gene expression data with networks of possible gene interactions to identify biological patterns in response to drug treatments. The system reveals complex mechanisms underlying cellular behavior, providing insights for new therapeutic approaches.
Predatory behavior is an inherited trait across multiple generations in nematodes
Research by the Max Planck Institute reveals how nematodes can shift to 100% predatory behaviour over 101 generations in response to dietary changes. The study highlights the role of multi-generational genetic memory and microRNA involvement in shaping evolutionary adaptations.
Children of moms who smoked or were obese are more likely to become obese adults
A UK study found that children of obese mothers are more likely to become obese adults, suggesting that societal and early-life factors play a significant role in obesity. The study analyzed data from over 17,000 people born in the same week in 1958 and found that these early life factors persisted through adulthood.
Study identifies Shisa7 gene as key driver in heroin addiction
A study published in Biological Psychiatry identified the Shisa7 gene as a key driver of heroin addiction. The research team used machine learning to analyze brain tissue from human opioid users and found that modulating this gene's expression influenced heroin-seeking behavior and cognitive flexibility.
Why does one person develop schizophrenia while another does not? A leading psychiatric geneticist investigates the answer
Dr. Consuelo Walss-Bass shares her groundbreaking research on schizophrenia, emphasizing the importance of considering both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. She also discusses her work with induced pluripotent stem cells to develop personalized psychiatry and reduce stigma around mental health.
Global neurology leader makes The Neuro world's first open science institute
Dr. Guy Rouleau, a renowned geneticist and neurologist, has founded the world's first academic institution committed to open science principles. The Neuro institute aims to transform how brain disease research is conducted worldwide by promoting data sharing and collaboration.
Violence alters human genes for generations, researchers discover
A new study discovered that violence can alter human genes for generations, even in grandchildren who never experienced violence themselves. Researchers found epigenetic changes in the genomes of Syrian families affected by the Hama massacre and subsequent civil war.
Mutation increases enzyme in mouse brains linked to schizophrenia behaviors
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation that increases glycine decarboxylase enzyme, linked to schizophrenia behaviors in mice. The study provides a direct genetic link to psychosis and sheds light on the biochemical pathways involved.
Globetrotting not in the genes
Scientists studied painted lady butterflies' migration patterns and found that environmental conditions shape their travel behavior, with some crossing the Sahara Desert. Contrary to previous belief, genetic analysis revealed no difference in DNA sequences between short- and long-trip butterflies.
Study links gene regulating brain circuit formation to autism and seizures
Researchers link neuropilin2 gene to autism and seizure development, highlighting its role in regulating neural circuits. The study suggests targeting specific phases of neuronal development could lead to therapeutic interventions for individuals with autism.
Geneticist unlocks mysteries of childhood psychiatric disorders through innovative research
Dr. Cathy Barr's groundbreaking research sheds light on the genetic foundations of conditions including depression, ADHD, reading disabilities, and Tourette syndrome. Her work has the potential to lead to more targeted treatments and reduce stigma around psychiatric disorders.
Exploring how pheromones drive mating behavior in mice
Scientists investigated the role of ancient VR type-1 (ancV1R) receptor in pheromone detection using knockout mice. The study found that ancV1R-deficient female mice had impaired pheromone detection and exhibited abnormal sexual behavior.
An RNA:DNA “sandwich” plays a key role in behavioral adaptations arising from emotional experiences
Researchers at MUSC discover an RNA:DNA 'sandwich' plays a key role in how the brain interprets emotional experiences and brings about behavioral adaptations. The discovery could lead to better RNA therapies for treating brain disorders.
Investigating the Genetic and Biological Mechanisms That Predispose to Early-Onset Psychotic Illnesses - A Free Webinar from the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation
A free webinar will explore the genetic and biological mechanisms that predispose to early-onset psychotic illnesses. Dr. Catherine Astrid Brownstein will discuss her research on using real-world data for genetic discovery in partnership with Inspire.com.
Three Texas A&M biologists receive coveted MIRA research grants
Three Texas A&M biologists have received NIH Maximizing Investigators’ Research Awards to support their research on type IV pili, darter fish social behaviors and bacteriophages. Drs Koch, Moran and Ramsey will explore bacterial behavior, genetic mechanisms and neural basis of paternal care in fish.
UT Health San Antonio study links genetic changes to social behavior differences in autism, schizophrenia
A UT Health San Antonio study found that brain volume changes correlate with social behavior differences in psychiatric conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Tbx1 deficiency was associated with decreased brain volume in the amygdala and surrounding cortical regions, affecting desire for social interaction.
New study finds neurobiological evidence of peripartum depression in women, distinguishing it from major depressive disorder
Researchers have identified structural grey matter differences in the brains of women with a history of peripartum depression compared to those without. The study found that hormone fluctuations during pregnancy and childbirth may be key to understanding this condition.
Sharing is caring: central Europe’s first farmers lived in equality
A recent study published in Nature Human Behaviour reveals that the Linear Pottery Culture (LBK) people showed no signs of population stratification, with homogeneous cultural traces across thousands of kilometers. The lack of genetic diversity among families also suggests social equality.
Vanderbilt scientists discover shared genetic foundations between musical rhythm and human language
Researchers found overlapping genetic underpinnings between rhythm-related skills and language-related traits, including dyslexia. The study identified 16 regions of the genome that overlapped between rhythm and language, suggesting a complex genetic architecture shared by these fundamental human traits.
You have your mother’s eyes and your father’s heart disease – now what?
Knowing family health history is crucial for reducing heart attack and stroke risk. Experts recommend following Life's Essential 8 - five health behaviors and three health factors to lower genetic risks.
Study reveals how deadly brain tumor evades treatment; identifies potential new treatment strategy
A new study from UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center introduces a combined genetic and functional profiling approach to predict how glioblastoma will respond to therapy. The approach helps identify new ways to target and treat the tumors more effectively, including using an experimental drug called ABBV-155.
Deaf male mosquitoes don’t mate
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara created deaf mosquitoes and found that males had no interest in mating, even when left with females for days. The absence of a single gene, trpVa, is responsible for this effect, which could have major implications for managing disease transmission by controlling mosquito populations.
Bee gene specifies collective behavior
Researchers at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf have identified the doublesex gene as the key to understanding how honey bees exhibit complex cooperative behavior. The study found that this gene programs specific behaviors in individual bees, including tasks such as caring for larvae and foraging for food.
Childhood attention issues and genetic factors may predict psychosis risk
Researchers at UCLA Health found an association between childhood attention problems and increased psychosis risk, with genetic variants acting as a middleman. The study used data from over 10,000 children to explore the relationship between attention span variability and psychotic-like symptoms.
Let sleeping babies lie: Scientists highlight negative impacts of sleep disruption on early brain development
Scientists found that sleep deprivation during early life can negatively impact key brain functions, leading to lasting effects on behavior and social skills. The study also suggests that genetic risk for autism spectrum disorder can interact with sleep disruption to cause long-lasting changes.
Male flies with shorter eyestalks make up for being less attractive by fighting more fiercely
A genetic variant causing shorter eyestalks in male stalk-eyed flies leads to increased aggression, allowing them to compete for mating opportunities despite being less attractive.
WashU researchers use genetics to find psychopathology risks
Researchers at WashU Medicine used a novel approach to examine the genetic building blocks of risk for mental health problems in teens. The study found associations between genetic predisposition and modifiable risk factors, such as screen time, stressful life events, and environmental conditions like neighborhood crime rates.
Red milkweed beetle genome offers insight into plant-insect interactions
The red milkweed beetle's genome has been sequenced, providing insights into how it safely feeds on toxic plants. The study found an apparent expansion of genes related to toxin sequestration and metabolic enzymes.