Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
A study by UC Irvine neuroscientists found that people with a particular gene variant performed more than 20 percent worse on a driving test than those without it. The variant limits the availability of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which keeps memory strong.
A recent study published in BMC Biology identified genetic pathways associated with moderate alcohol consumption, but found no correlation between these genes and alcohol dependence. The research team found that drinking behavior was linked to pleasure and reward pathways in the brain, similar to satiety and appetite for food.
Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered a genetic 'switch' in fruit flies that contributes to increased alcohol tolerance. This switch also has implications for the development of fatty liver syndrome and cirrhosis in humans, with certain gene variations linked to excessive drinking behavior.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered a genetic lesion associated with schizophrenia disrupts brain development, altering neuron numbers and GABAergic cell placement. This finding supports the neurodevelopmental hypothesis, offering new avenues for understanding the disease's molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers.
A University of Toronto study found that genetically eliminating certain pheromones triggered a surge in fruit flies' libido, leading to same-sex and interspecies mating. The research suggests a link between sex, species recognition, and chemical signals in fly behavior.
A Stanford University researcher has pinpointed the mechanism by which a gene associated with both autism and schizophrenia influences behavior in mice. The study identified behavioral changes in the mice similar to some symptoms of autism and schizophrenia, highlighting the complexities of cognitive disorders.
Researchers found that culturally learned behaviors are a better explanation for altruism than genetics. Altruism was more common in neighboring social groups with similar cultural practices, suggesting a gene-culture coevolution of prosocial propensities. This challenges traditional views on the role of nature versus nurture in shapin...
A genome-wide study has identified a single-letter change in the genetic code associated with autism, highlighting the role of common DNA variation. The research also uncovered two other genomic regions likely containing rare genetic differences that may influence autism risk.
The University of North Carolina has been awarded a $8.6 million NIH grant to investigate the complex factors contributing to psychiatric disorders such as autism, depression, and anxiety. By using laboratory mice to screen genetic possibilities, researchers aim to understand how genes and environment interact to shape these traits.
The American Society of Human Genetics presents the 2009 William Allan Award to Dr. Huntington F. Willard for his seminal findings in understanding chromosome structure and behavior. Willard's work has been instrumental in advancing human genetics, with a focus on X chromosome inactivation and centromeres.
A new study suggests that genetic factors, rather than environmental theories, contribute to the association between fathers' absence and early sex. The researchers found that traits such as impulsivity, substance use, and argumentativeness can increase the likelihood of earlier sexual behavior in children.
The fisheries industry's pursuit of consumer-friendly fish products is impacting fish populations worldwide. Scientists have found that repeated selective harvesting is causing changes in fish morphology, development, and behavior.
A genetic mutation in a single amino acid causes defective collagen molecules to repel each other, leading to brittle bones and tissue failure. This study uses molecular-based multi-scale analysis to understand the impact of material properties on human disease.
A study found that human populations began to expand in size in Africa around 40,000 years ago, supporting the hypothesis that population growth played a significant role in the evolution of human cultures. The research used genetic evidence and computational approaches to simulate the evolution of genetic lineages over time.
Researchers found a common genetic variation linked to aggression and destructive behavior in adults with developmental/intellectual disabilities. The study suggests that this variation may be associated with increased autism severity in individuals with the gene variant, highlighting the need for further research.
Researchers at UCLA have found a new explanation for why placebos work, citing genetics as the key factor. Genes that influence brain reward pathways may modulate the response to placebos, particularly in individuals with major depressive disorder.
A new genetic study has identified 27 genes associated with Asperger syndrome, autistic traits, and empathy. The research found that single nucleotide polymorphisms in these genes were nominally associated with autistic traits and empathy, providing preliminary leads for understanding the genetic basis of Asperger syndrome.
A recent study by UCSF scientists has identified a specific region of genes linked to perfect pitch in people of European ancestry. The researchers found that multiple genes contribute to perfect pitch and that different genes may be associated with different ethnic backgrounds.
Researchers have identified a connection between the immune system and schizophrenia, finding genetic variations that disrupt brain development, memory, and cognition. The study's findings hold promise for developing new treatments targeting specific molecular mechanisms involved in the disorder.
Researchers identified a significant association between gene variations on chromosome 6 and schizophrenia risk. The study, combining data from 27,000 individuals, found evidence of immune function's potential role in the disease.
Researchers found rare copy number variations in genes of children with autism spectrum disorders but not healthy controls. The study identified two novel genes, BZRAP1 and MDGA2, thought to be important in synaptic function and neurological development.
A new study on seed beetles reveals that low genetic quality males are more successful in fertilizing eggs, contrary to predictions. Females' multiple mating does not guarantee the sperm of the highest genetic male.
A study published in Investigative Ophthalmolgy & Visual Science found that multiple genetic, ocular, and environmental factors contribute to the incidence of AMD. Researchers developed a predictive model using these variables, which can be used to guide prevention and treatments.
Researchers found that sagebrush plants can communicate danger to their clones by emitting volatile cues, allowing them to avoid being eaten by herbivores. This complex behavior suggests that plants are capable of more sophisticated behavior than previously thought.
A new review of existing research reveals same-sex behavior is a nearly universal phenomenon in the animal kingdom. However, researchers have focused primarily on understanding the genetic and neural mechanisms behind this behavior rather than its potential evolutionary consequences.
Researchers identified genetic regions responsible for animal tameness in a rat model of domestication. The study provides insight into the genetics and biology of tameness, potentially leading to more precise breeding strategies for tame animals.
A new FSU study confirms the 'warrior gene' is linked to gang membership and violent behavior in males, while females with the same variant are less likely to engage in such behavior. The study found that males carrying a specific MAOA gene variant were more likely to join gangs and use weapons.
A new study suggests that high population density catalyzed the emergence of modern human behavior, driven by increased exchange of ideas and skills. This skill maintenance, combined with a greater probability of useful innovations, led to the appearance of modern human behavior at different times in different regions.
Researchers discovered that the Galapagos giant tortoise and marine iguana are targeted by mosquitoes feeding on reptile blood, raising fears of devastating native wildlife diseases. The mosquito's adaptation to life in Galapagos could enable rapid spread of new diseases due to the islands' lack of immunity.
A new study demonstrates that a family-based prevention program can protect youth from engaging in risky behaviors, even if they have a genetic risk factor. The program, called 'Strong African American Families', taught parents and children skills to promote positive goals, emotional support, and racial pride.
A family-based prevention program was found to be especially effective in reducing substance use and risk behaviors among young teens with a genetic risk factor. The study showed that the program helped adolescents with the short allele of 5-HTTLPR overcome their predisposition to engage in risky behaviors.
Researchers found genetically engineered mice without liver fatty acid binding protein gene developed gallstones, while normal mice did not, offering clues about genetic predisposition to gallstone formation. This study may lead to better understanding of genetic susceptibility and potential intervention before serious problems arise.
A new study on blue tits reveals that eggs fertilized by non-social partners tend to hatch earlier, with nearly 75% of extra-pair offspring produced in the first half of the clutch. This suggests that early hatching may be a key factor in the observed superiority of extra-pair offspring.
After 75 years, the disappearance of Everett Ruess has been solved using forensic and DNA evidence. The remains were identified as a male matching Ruess's age and stature through facial reconstruction and mitochondrial DNA analysis.
Researchers have identified a new gene variant associated with autism, found to be highly active in fetal brain regions critical for language and social behavior. The study suggests that this gene variant may contribute to an increased prenatal risk of autism.
The Medical College of Georgia is part of a large national study examining the genes of 10,000 patients with schizophrenia and 10,000 healthy individuals. The study aims to pinpoint variations that can improve disease diagnosis and treatment.
A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that genetic predisposition to impulsivity is a trait predictive of alcoholism. The study used selective breeding to produce mice with high and low alcohol-preferred genes, which demonstrated that predisposition to impulsivity is predictive of alcoholism.
A new study using mice found that genes affect impulsivity, which can contribute to the risk of developing alcoholism. The study suggests that individuals with high impulsivity may be more likely to experiment with drugs and develop a substance-use disorder like alcoholism.
Researchers at Caltech trained computers to automatically analyze aggression and courtship in fruit flies, enabling high-throughput screens for genes controlling these behaviors. The program allows for accurate analysis of complex social behaviors in a matter of minutes, improving the efficiency of genetic research.
Research published in Genetics reveals genetic priming in females, making them more likely to choose certain males over others, influencing mating outcomes and future reproductive behaviors. The study's findings suggest that genetic compatibility is key to understanding love at first sight.
Researchers investigated kinship ties in alpine wood ant colonies and found that breeding was limited to specific clusters, with individuals within clusters more related to each other. The study suggests that queens often move to breed within their cluster, while males are more mobile and contribute to male-biased gene flow.
Scientists have identified a set of genes involved in orienting Eastern North American monarch butterflies' internal 'sun compass' and driving their 4000km migration to Mexico. The research reveals seasonal changes in genomic function help define the migratory state, independent of juvenile hormone activity.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered that C. elegans worms can exhibit both swimming and crawling behaviors, challenging the long-held assumption that these are distinct gaits. The study's findings suggest that a single underlying nervous system mechanism controls a range of locomotion behaviors.
Recent studies in epigenetics provide new understanding of how environmental factors influence brain function and behavior, potentially explaining the complex nature of mental illness. Epigenetic changes can be long-lived and influenced by life experiences, psychotropic drugs, and psychotherapy.
Researchers found that fruit flies use separate populations of neurons to detect wind and sound, allowing them to respond differently to each stimulus. This discovery provides insights into the complex sensory mechanisms of these tiny insects.
A Rice University study has confirmed a world-record colony of amoebae clones measuring at least 12 meters across in a Texas cattle pasture. The discovery provides insights into the evolution of cooperative behavior in microorganisms like Dictyostelium discoideum.
A study of E. coli transport behavior reveals significant variability among strains from different host species and sources, affecting cell properties like surface charge and hydrophobicity. Cell width is the only property correlated with transport behavior in this research.
A study examining Asian young adults found consistent additive effects of ethnicity and ALDH2 genotype on drinking behaviors. Korean ethnicity and ALDH2 status were associated with significant variance in alcohol consumption, suggesting that genetic influences may play a role in predicting drinking behavior among this population.
A gene variant in the MET gene may contribute to increased risk of co-occurring medical conditions in individuals with autism. The study found that disrupted signaling of the MET gene is linked to a syndrome including autism and gastrointestinal dysfunction.
A new NC State University study reveals that fruit flies have a genetically wired sleep pattern, with males sleeping more during the day and females having more frequent bouts of sleep. The research identified 1,700 genes associated with sleep variability, shedding light on how these genes may influence human sleep.
A hallucinogenic compound found in a plant indigenous to South America has been discovered to activate the sigma-1 receptor, a protein abundant throughout the body. This finding may have implications for treating drug abuse and depression, with potential applications for developing new, highly selective drugs to inhibit the receptor.
Study finds GTF2IRD1 contributes to visual-spatial performance while GTF2I plays a role in social behavior, shedding light on complex aspects of human behavior. The research used genetic analysis to identify the genes' effects on cognitive abilities and behavior, providing new insights into Williams syndrome.
A University of Georgia study found that involved and supportive parenting can completely override the effects of a genetic risk factor for substance abuse. The research, published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, suggests that high levels of parental involvement can protect against substance use.
Researchers found that individuals with short serotonin transporter gene and 7-repeat allele of the DRD4 gene invest more in risky investments. The study suggests that genetics play a role in predicting financial risk-taking, but experience and upbringing also contribute to investor behavior.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute for Learning and Memory found that two genes cause autism-like symptoms in mice, suggesting multiple genetic risk factors influence autistic symptoms' severity. The study may lead to drugs targeting signaling mechanisms between the two genes and a diagnostic target or biomarker.
A team of researchers observed the sequential development of new species in fruit flies and parasitic wasps after introducing apples to North America. The modification of one species triggers the modification of a second, dependent species, demonstrating biodiversity as a source for new biodiversity.
Computer models reveal that shuffling gene order has a huge impact on virus growth and interaction with host cells. The study aims to understand how an organism's genome guides its growth and development.
A Cardiff University research project found a link between prenatal smoking and anti-social behavior in children, but only when the mother was genetically linked to the child. The study suggests that factors other than smoking during pregnancy influence anti-social behavior.
Researchers found that African elephants in Tanzania's Mikumi National Park formed unusually small groups and chose to forge new bonds with unrelated females. The effects of poaching on group size, relatedness, and social bonding persist for up to 20 years after the killing has ended.
Researchers discover that individuals with low-activity MAOA gene display higher levels of aggression in response to provocation, particularly when faced with significant financial loss. The study suggests genetic influences on aggression and punishment behavior, questioning the altruistic punisher theory.