Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
Biologists from the University of Leicester have discovered that buff-tailed bumblebees develop into queens or workers based on gene expression. The study found that differentiation is not caused by inherited genetic differences, but rather by distinct expression patterns in adults.
Researchers have successfully created mice that mimic the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), two devastating neurodegenerative disorders. The mice exhibit key hallmarks of the diseases, including toxic RNA clusters and TDP-43 protein inclusions.
A study by Kansas State University researchers found that genes can influence leadership in the workplace, with both positive and negative effects. People with a certain allele of the dopamine transporter gene were more likely to engage in mild rule-breaking behavior, which is positively associated with leadership. However, those with ...
A new study by geneticists from the University of Leicester has identified nearly 80 genes associated with 'morningness' and 'eveningness' in fruit flies. This discovery could lead to better diagnostics and personalized medicine, where individuals receive tailored therapies based on their unique genetic profiles.
Researchers have reconciled three unrelated hypotheses about schizophrenia's causes by studying mice with a genetic deletion. The findings suggest that faulty neural connections, excess dopamine, and brain pruning are linked to the disease. The study aims to develop treatment strategies targeting these underlying causes.
The 2015 Weatherstone Predoctoral Fellowship class of Autism Speaks will pursue two-year research projects under mentorship of leading scientists. The program aims to advance understanding of autism and support essential training opportunities for the brightest young investigators.
Researchers found that mice lacking the estrogen-related receptor alpha gene exhibit abnormal behaviors related to eating and social interactions. The study identifies ESRRA as a key gene contributing to the risk of anorexia nervosa, with implications for treating the disorder.
A genetic mutation associated with an increased risk of developing eating disorders in humans has been found to cause obsessive-compulsive-like behaviors and social impairments in mice. The study identified estrogen-related receptor alpha as a contributing gene to the risk of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Researchers suggest that increased schooling and mentally challenging problems tackled in schools contribute to the dramatic rise in IQ scores, known as the Flynn Effect. This finding supports the idea that environment plays a stronger role in intelligence than previously thought.
A study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers has found a biological clue that may help explain why some drinkers develop a dependence on alcohol. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective drugs to combat alcoholism.
A new diet, MIND, shows reduced risk of Alzheimer's by 35-53% in participants who adhered moderately well, with benefits from brain-healthy food groups and limits on unhealthy foods. Long-term consistent adherence is crucial for optimal protection.
Joslin researchers find insulin resistance in brain cells may lead to behavioral disorders like anxiety and depression, with potential therapeutic implications for treating these conditions. The study suggests that correcting the metabolic changes could help alleviate symptoms.
Researchers found that the Gomafu gene is dynamically regulated in the adult brain, affecting behavior related to anxiety and schizophrenia. The discovery sheds light on the gene's potential as a surveillance system for rapid brain responses to environmental changes.
The UC Davis project, part of the FAANG Initiative, focuses on functional genomics of chicken, cow, and pig genomes to better understand gene regulation and complex traits. This research aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability by identifying key genetic elements influencing animal development and behavior.
A study by Joshua Grubbs and Julie Exline found that individuals who attribute their bad behavior to being born in this way are more prone to feelings of anger towards God. This can lead to depression, conflict with deity, and poor recovery from illness.
Scientists studied the fly species Scaptomyza flava to understand its transition from a non-plant diet to herbivory. They found that genetic and neurological processes underlying behaviors were drastically remodeled, enabling the flies to seek out healthy plants and lay eggs on them.
Researchers identified five genetic variants influencing brain structure size, particularly in regions associated with memory and movement. The study, the largest analysis of brain structure and genetics, aims to understand the causes of variation in human brain development and disease predisposition.
Researchers used a century-old drug, suramin, to reverse environmental and genetic autism-like symptoms in mice. The approach blocked the cellular danger response signal, allowing cells to restore normal communication and reversing ASD symptoms.
Researchers suggest that overvalued ideas, often driven by psychopathology, motivate young male offenders to engage in senseless violence. The study, published in Violence and Gender, sheds light on the 'motivating mindset' of attackers like Zehaf-Bibeau, who killed a Canadian military reservist.
Researchers at UCLA have discovered a genetic link between PTSD and two gene variants, COMT and TPH-2. These variants may contribute to the onset and persistence of the disorder, suggesting that heredity influences a person's risk of developing PTSD. The findings could lead to faster diagnosis and better treatment for survivors.
Researchers found that a specific gene variant is associated with children's vulnerability to negative environments, but also responded positively to an intensive intervention program called Fast Track. The study suggests that personalized treatments may be possible for society's most troubled children.
A large-scale analysis of hundreds of patients and nearly 1000 genes found that diverse genetic mutations lead to different disease outcomes in autism spectrum disorder. The study revealed that more damaging mutations usually result in worse outcomes, while high-IQ cases are often triggered by milder mutations.
A review article examines the growth of ISIS, its membership, and the organization's use of violence as a 'brand'. The authors, former FBI Agents, discuss tactics such as recruitment of young men and women, propaganda, and counter-strategies.
A recent study published in BioScience found that media reports on behavioral genetics can lead to unfounded beliefs and misunderstandings among the public. The study involved reading articles about research in genopolitics and asking participants to estimate the influence of genes on various traits.
A study of Swedish teenagers found that three genetic variants interacted with environmental factors to increase the risk of delinquency, while a positive parent-child relationship decreased the risk. The research suggests that genes affect brain function and behavior by altering sensitivity to negative or positive environments.
A Texas Tech University biologist led a team of over 50 scientists in mapping the genomes of three crocodilians, including a crocodile, alligator, and gharial. The research reveals that crocodilian genomes change very slowly compared to birds, with an estimated 93% identical DNA across their genomes.
Research suggests that early-life stress can have positive effects on behavior, such as improved flexibility and goal-oriented behavior, which can be passed down through generations via molecular pathways. This study reveals the beneficial impact of moderate stress in childhood, leading to better coping strategies in adulthood.
Researchers have discovered a common 'genetic toolkit' for behavioral traits across different species, including house mice, stickleback fish, and honey bees. Shared gene expression patterns were found in response to intruder threats, suggesting molecular similarities run deeper than brain structural differences.
Researchers found that disclosing genetic risk information led to increased perceived personal control and counseling satisfaction among patients. Patients who received genetic risk information also reported adopting healthier behaviors to reduce coronary heart disease risk.
A new mouse model demonstrates that a genetic mutation in the FOXP1 gene leads to brain degeneration, causing perception and behavior problems. The study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying autism.
Researchers found that a genetic tweak in yellow fever mosquitoes makes them more sensitive to human odor, particularly sulcatone, allowing them to target humans. This discovery provides insight into the evolution of mosquito behavior and could help develop new ways to prevent their bites.
A new study by Florida State University professor Kevin Beaver found that parenting-related behaviors, such as reading bedtime stories and eating family dinners, have no influence on verbal intelligence. The study used an adoption-based research design to rule out genetic transmission as the reason for any potential effects.
A research team led by Carnegie Mellon University's Kathryn Roeder and the University of Pittsburgh's Bernie Devlin has identified 33 genes that contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study analyzed data from over 14,000 DNA samples and found that small differences in some of possibly 1,000 risk genes can increase autism risk.
Researchers discovered over 70 additional likely ASD genes, with small differences in as many as 1,000 genes contributing to autism risk. The study found three pathways required for healthy development linked to greater autism risk, including chromatin remodeling.
Researchers developed the 3D-CAM test, a short and structured diagnostic assessment to diagnose delirium. The test was highly sensitive and specific, with a sensitivity rate of 96% and specificity rate of 98%. Additionally, a study found that clinicians often remain unaware of patients' central venous catheters in place, posing a patie...
Research found that people born in summer months have a higher chance of developing cyclothymic temperament, characterized by rapid mood swings, compared to those born in winter. Additionally, summer births are associated with a higher incidence of hyperthymic temperament, which is linked to an increased risk of mood disorders.
Researchers discovered that male nematode brains suppress food-seeking behavior to focus on finding a mate. This study sheds light on how subtle changes in brain circuitry dictate differences in behavior between males and females.
West African chimpanzees employ a sophisticated tool-based technique, dubbed 'ant dipping,' to harvest army ants for sustenance. This study reveals that army ants are a significant component of the chimpanzee diet throughout the year, providing essential nutrients like protein and fats.
An analysis of statements from 51 recognized civilian heroes found that most describe their acts as intuitive, rather than deliberate. This suggests that high-stakes extreme altruism may be largely driven by automatic, instinctual processes.
Researchers used zebrafish to study a rare genetic disorder affecting a boy and his uncles, identifying a mutation in the RPL10 gene as the likely cause of their symptoms. The findings provide crucial first steps towards further research into the molecular details of the disease.
The University of Chicago has established a national Center of Excellence to study the genetics of drug abuse in rats, using genome-wide association studies and behavioral research. The center aims to shed light on the genes behind drug addiction and explore potential therapeutic interventions.
A large-scale genome-wide meta-analysis has identified six new genetic variants associated with habitual coffee drinking. The study suggests that people naturally modulate their coffee intake for optimal effects exerted by caffeine.
A study published in Nature Genetics has identified a fifth of the genetic factors that cause height to vary between individuals, doubling the number of known genome regions involved in height to more than 400. The research found that simple common genetic variation explains more than half of the factors involved in determining height.
A genetic study suggests that individuals with a specific genotype may be prone to weight gain and increased risk of diabetes and heart disease when exposed to chronic stress. Simple interventions like healthy diet, exercise, and stress management could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in these individuals.
A team led by Drs. Mary L. Marazita and Seth M. Weinberg will recruit 6,100 individuals for genetic studies to identify genetic susceptibility for cleft lip and palate in low-risk populations in Nigeria, the Philippines, and Colombia, as well as mid-risk populations in Pittsburgh and Lancaster.
A study found that peer drinking reduces the protective effects of an ADH1B gene variant in adolescents, leading to increased risk of drinking milestones. The study analyzed data from 1,550 European and African-American individuals who consumed alcohol before age 18.
Researchers at Caltech have discovered a seesaw-like circuit in the mouse amygdala that controls whether animals engage in social or repetitive asocial behaviors. The discovery, led by Weizhe Hong, may have implications for understanding neural circuit dysfunctions underlying autism in humans.
Researchers have identified key genetic changes responsible for rabbit domestication, including modifications to brain and nervous system development. The study shows that small changes in many genes led to the inhibition of the strong flight response in domestic rabbits.
Researchers at Champalimaud Foundation establish the effect of serotonin on sensitivity to pain, revealing a significant decrease in pain perception when serotonin is released. This breakthrough provides new insights into chronic pain treatment.
Scientists have created a new mouse strain that restores the ability of wild-derived mice to exhibit normal aggression and maternal instinct towards pups. This breakthrough allows researchers to explore the biological roots of aggressive behavior in females, including their reaction to pheromone signals.
A study review by María José Martínez-Patiño and others highlights the need for refined policies to protect female athletes from media attention and sex tests. The International Olympic Committee's hyperandrogenism policy is being called into question, with experts advocating for greater equity and inclusivity in sports.
Researchers discovered a link between credit assignment and choice bias, finding that people value rewards they choose more than equivalent rewards not chosen. The study used computational modeling and behavioral experiments to test the hypothesis, and found evidence supporting the proposed biological mechanism.
Researchers have linked autistic behaviors in Fragile X syndrome to the MMP-9 enzyme, which can be targeted therapeutically. The study found that deleting MMP-9 favorably impacts behaviors associated with FXS, offering new hope for treating the disorder.
A new study at the University of Iowa has identified a potential genetic link between epilepsy and neurodegenerative disorders, revealing a novel pathway involved in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. The researchers found that mutations in prickle genes cause seizures in flies, leading to epilepsy-like behaviors.
A new study doubles the number of documented Christianson Syndrome cases and proposes the first diagnostic criteria for the condition. The criteria include symptoms such as intellectual disability, epilepsy, and hyperactivity, and are based on genetic analysis that reveals distinct mutations in the SLC9A6 gene.
Neuroscientists report defects in Fatty Acid Binding Proteins (FABPs) may explain pathology in schizophrenia and autism. Genetic disruption of Fabps in mice mimics disease behaviors seen in patients, suggesting a common link underlying these mental disorders.
A Georgia State University research study found that chimpanzee intelligence is largely determined by genes, while environmental factors may play a lesser role. The study's findings suggest that genes significantly influence cognitive abilities in chimpanzees, with some similarities to the structure of human intelligence.
Researchers have identified a genetic link between the CHD8 mutation and autism, affecting approximately half of those with the condition. The study found that individuals with this mutation often exhibit gastrointestinal disorders, sleep disturbances, and distinctive physical characteristics.
In a study published in Current Biology, researchers found that the Abdominal-B gene controls a set of neurons responsible for a major part of female fly receptivity. This discovery provides insight into the neural circuitry that drives courtship behavior on the female side.
Elsevier has launched a new review journal focused on behavioral sciences, providing updates on the field through educational forums. The journal will co-edited by Professors Trevor Robbins and Cindy Lustig, showcasing novel breakthroughs and significant trends.