Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
Researchers have discovered a strong link between gene variants and anxiety-related traits, including shy behavior in children and introverted personality in adults. These variations were associated with increased activity of brain regions involved in emotional processing.
Researchers found that lower-income neighborhoods are associated with higher obesity rates due to limited access to healthy food and physical activity opportunities. The study highlights the importance of neighborhood-level services and structures in influencing weight-related behaviors.
Researchers have developed a method to measure the reproductive value of female side-blotched lizards, revealing that large clutches are associated with increased survival rates. Male lizards also exhibit improved survival with small clutch sizes due to hormonal changes, highlighting an 'ontogenetic conflict' between the sexes.
Chimpanzees have been found to build 'cultures' through social learning, with different colonies adopting unique methods for food preparation and grooming. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that culturally-learned behaviors are unique to humans.
Research at Rockefeller University reveals that flies use stereo cues to navigate towards scented targets more accurately when detecting smells with both olfactory organs. By exploiting infrared technology, scientists created an environment where they could visualize and quantify the distribution of smells.
A University of California, Irvine study identifies a single amino acid that triggers circadian rhythms, opening up potential for new pharmaceuticals to treat sleep disorders and related ailments. The finding uncovers the most specific information about the body's internal clock to date.
Researchers at the Research Institute of Molecular Pathology have identified a molecular switch responsible for the behavioral changes in female fruit flies after mating. The discovery could lead to new approaches for controlling reproductive behaviors in agricultural pests and human disease carriers.
Researchers have identified a gene variant associated with increased alcohol consumption in mice, which may provide new targets for developing treatments for alcohol dependence. The study suggests that glutamate pathways play a critical role in addiction and may be targeted by future drugs.
A CU-Boulder study suggests that individual brain chemistry and genes play a key role in determining nicotine addiction. The researchers found that the effects of nicotine diminish at night due to genetic differences and melatonin recognition. Higher levels of stress hormone corticosterone during the day enhance nicotine sensitivity.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have identified a genetic variant on chromosome 6 associated with rheumatoid arthritis. The discovery may influence the behavior of a nearby gene, tumour necrosis factor associated protein (TNFAIP3), which is involved in inflammatory processes.
Scientists at NC State University have identified genes that contribute to fruit fly alcohol sensitivity, with 72% of these genes having human counterparts. The study could lead to the development of a drug for people with higher genetic risk factors for alcoholism.
A study by UCLA researchers has identified brain circuits involved in hunger that are influenced by leptin, a hormone produced by fat cells. Leptin supplementation reduced activation in regions linked to hunger while enhancing activation in regions linked to inhibition and satiety in three adults with congenital leptin deficiency.
Researchers genetically manipulated nematode worms to be attracted to the same sex, revealing that sexual attraction is derived from a shared nervous system. The study suggests that sexual orientation may be wired in the brain and not solely caused by extra nerve cells.
A new study found that individuals with a specific GABRA2 genotype may have fewer drinking days and better treatment response to psychotherapy. The findings suggest that genetic information could be used to match patients with the most effective treatments.
Research by biologists at the University of Bonn found that older coal tit males produced significantly more 'cuckoo kids' than younger males. In contrast, younger males father only 0.3 extra-marital offspring on average.
Researchers found that individuals with genetically lower dopamine D2 receptors are more motivated to eat and consume more calories. This study provides insights into the genetic contribution to eating behavior and obesity, highlighting potential targets for tailored treatment programs.
Researchers discovered specific neuronal subpopulations mediate distinct effects of THC, leading to potential therapeutic use for neuronal disorders. The study provides rationale for developing drugs that selectively activate CB1 in specific neuronal subpopulations.
The University of Southern California has received a five-year, $8.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to survey the genetic, physical and behavioral profiles of children with autism. The grant will increase the reach and ethnic diversity of the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) database.
A study has identified genetic variants associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Women with specific variants in the estrogen receptor alpha gene were more likely to experience PMDD, suggesting hormonal factors play a key role in its development.
Cold Spring Harbor Protocols features two new methods for neuroscience research: a step-by-step approach to prepare brain slices from rats or mice for growth in culture and how to properly assess courtship behavior in male fruit flies. These protocols allow researchers to examine the structure and function of neurons in their native en...
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered a genetic link between maternal and altruistic behaviors in wasps, finding similarities with honey bee workers. The study suggests that eusociality may have evolved from maternal behavior in paper wasps, challenging Darwinian predictions.
A new genetic test, Mark-C, has been announced to identify patients at risk of suicidal ideation when prescribed antidepressant drugs. The test is expected to help reduce suicide rates among U.S. youth and make antidepressant medication safer for patients worldwide.
Researchers used 454 sequencing to analyze messenger RNA from wasp brains, correlating expression patterns with social behaviors. Insulin-related genes showed distinct patterns, suggesting eusociality involves major nutritional and reproductive pathways.
A study in primates suggests that infants and children carrying a specific gene variant may be more vulnerable to the effects of fetal alcohol exposure. The research identifies a potential genetic marker for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, which can help recognize susceptible individuals early on.
The NIH is awarding $105 million to 41 innovative investigators through the Pioneer and New Innovator Awards. These grants will support groundbreaking research in various fields, including neuroscience, physics, and biology.
Four young University of Chicago scientists, Margaret Gardel and Rustem Ismagilov, will receive $2.5 million each for biological research over five years. Additionally, Kristen Jacobson and Dorothy Sipkins will receive $1.5 million each for psychiatric and medical research, respectively.
Researchers at UWM are collaborating with PhysioGenix Inc. to investigate a novel animal model for diseases like depression and ADHD. The consomic rats, developed by MCW, have already shown promise in studying cardiovascular disease and hypertension.
A mouse model for schizophrenia has been developed, allowing researchers to turn the mutated DISC-1 gene on or off at will. The study showed significant behavioral changes in male mice, including increased activity and aggression, as well as memory difficulties in females.
The study reveals a novel function for COUP-TF1 in balancing the sizes of functional areas in the brain, ensuring proper partitioning into 'frontal' areas controlling emotions and movements versus sensory areas interpreting the environment. This discovery may explain individual differences in behavior and skills.
The Consortium for Neuropsychiatric Phenomics aims to understand the biology underlying various mental disorders by targeting healthy brain systems, such as memory and impulse control. This interdisciplinary approach may lead to new treatments and accelerate gene discovery.
Researchers created OCD-like behaviors in mice using genetic engineering and reversed them with antidepressants and targeted a key brain circuit. The study suggests new strategies for treating the disorder by understanding the role of the SAPAP3 gene in glutamate-mediated communications.
Researchers created a genetically engineered mouse that models both anatomical and behavioral defects of schizophrenia, a complex brain disorder. The new mouse is based on a genetic change in the DISC1 gene, which affects nerve cell function, and shows characteristic defects in brain structure and behavior.
Two large-scale genomic studies reveal new genetic variations in multiple sclerosis and suggest a link to other autoimmune diseases. The IL-7R receptor is identified as a critical factor in the disease's pathogenesis.
A study by Cornell scientists found that genetically diverse honeybee colonies produced 30% more comb, stored 39% more food, and maintained foraging levels 27-78% higher than genetically uniform colonies. These colonies also gained weight due to sophisticated communication mechanisms like waggle dancing.
Friendly young people are sensitive to the influence of others on their alcohol use, with men and extroverts drinking more than others. Upbringing, culture, and social environment also play a role in determining drinking behavior.
A study from Rice University reveals that cooperative single-celled amoebae use family ties to prevent cheaters from undermining their colonies' health. By associating with kin, the amoebae's social system prevents the spread of selfish mutants.
The study reveals that humans use two different methods to track moving objects: low-level motion perception and high-level motion perception. Participants showed varying capabilities in each area, with some excelling at catching up to a target and others better at locking onto it.
New study reveals chimpanzees act altruistically toward genetically unrelated conspecifics, even when no reward is expected. This finding suggests the evolutionary roots of human altruism may be deeper than previously thought, reaching back to the last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees.
Researchers discovered Alaska's ancient wolves were distinct from modern wolves, with robust bodies and massive canine teeth. The study suggests these specialized hunters and scavengers thrived in ancient Alaska, but their extinction portends potential demise of similar predators due to global warming.
A study reported in Current Biology shows that captive chimpanzees can acquire new traditions and spread them to other troops. This suggests a considerable capacity for cultural spread of innovations among chimpanzees, similar to what is seen in the wild.
The 2007 L’Oréal USA Fellows are recognized for their innovative research in earth science, neuroscience, oceanography, physical chemistry, and biomedical engineering. Their work tackles key scientific issues and has the potential to shape the future of science and address global challenges.
A study found associations between genetic markers on chromosomes 11, 1, 2, 5, 18, 20, and 22 in tumor stroma and clinicopathological features. These findings support a model where genetic changes occur in both stromal and epithelial compartments during tumorigenesis.
A genome-wide study reveals that variations in multiple genes contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. The researchers identified a promising target gene DGKH, which produces an enzyme involved in lithium's therapeutic effects. This discovery may lead to the development of new and more effective medications for bipolar disorder.
Researchers investigate interest in genetic testing among healthy young adults and its impact on healthcare decisions. Participants receive free multiplex genetic testing, which detects variants of genes linked to various diseases.
A recent study by Scripps Research Institute scientists has identified intercellular mechanisms as essential to maintaining cellular circadian clocks. The research highlights the importance of networked electrical and neurochemical interactions in sustaining cellular rhythms, offering new insights into the circadian clock's operation.
A U of M-led study has identified 10 new genetic risk factors for type 2 diabetes, which could lead to the development of new drugs and more effective treatments. The findings also improve our understanding of how these genetic factors interact with lifestyle factors.
A new study examines the impact of spousal similarity on alcohol dependence (AD) risk. Assortative mating increases AD frequency, while reciprocal spousal interaction appears to protect against AD after accounting for assortative mating. This finding suggests that having an AD spouse may reduce the likelihood of developing AD.
A Brandeis University study shows that the circadian neuronal network in fruit flies functions as a dynamic system that enables insects to adjust their behavior according to seasonal changes. The researchers discovered that two groups of neurons, morning cells and evening cells, alternate as master clocks depending on day length and se...
A new study published in Science has identified a single gene that may determine whether dogs are big or small, providing insights into the diversity of breeds. The research team used over 3,200 dog DNA samples to pinpoint this major gene, which is thought to have resulted in the appearance of smaller dogs in the population.
Scientists have created a technique to directly control brain cell activity with light, enabling experimentation with neural circuits and potentially leading to therapies for disorders like depression and Parkinson's disease. The 'traffic light' system uses light-sensitive proteins to selectively stimulate or dampen different neurons.
A groundbreaking study found that genetic background influences the extent of young mice's gregariousness, with more socially predisposed animals seeking social interaction. The researchers also identified associations between mouse vocalizations and the nature of their social interactions.
A recent NIDA study has identified genes associated with an individual's ability to quit smoking. The research, published in BMC Genetics, found 221 genes that distinguish successful quitters from those who struggled to stop smoking.
Researchers will collect DNA samples from 3,000 autism patients to identify variants and develop treatments. The project will advance knowledge on subtypes of autism, promoting targeted therapies.
Researchers found genetic markers associated with lower scores in tests measuring anger, hostility, and aggression in women. The study identified two alterations in the serotonin receptor 2C gene promoter region linked to increased risk of hypertension, glucose metabolism, and heart diseases.
New research reveals that shyness in children may be linked to the interaction between genes and stressful family environments. A genetic variant associated with stress sensitivity is more prevalent among shy children raised by stressed-out parents.
Researchers at the Salk Institute found that brain area sizes must be optimally tuned to perform tasks, with underperforming mice exhibiting reduced tactile and motor behaviors. Genetic manipulation in mice revealed a correlation between area size and performance, which was reversed by genetic rescue experiments.
A five-year study involving over 1,200 families has identified two new genetic links to familial autism, with one gene associated with neurexin 1 and a previously unidentified region of chromosome 11 implicated. The findings suggest that autism has numerous genetic origins rather than a single cause.
A UCSB study found evidence of a nonconscious mechanism in the human brain that identifies genetic siblings based on cues guided by hunter-gatherer ancestors. This mechanism regulates feelings of altruism and aversion to incestuous relations, suggesting natural selection played a role in its evolution.
The horse genome sequence has been successfully assembled, offering a comprehensive understanding of the equine genome. The data provides valuable insights into genetic variations in horses, which can help identify the causes of various diseases affecting these animals.
Researchers have developed a new model of Parkinson's disease in fruit flies, confirming the link between dopamine and a mutant form of the parkin protein. The study found that a single copy of the mutation was toxic to dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor dysfunction.