Blue eyes -- A clue to paternity
Researchers found that blue-eyed men rate blue-eyed female models as more attractive than brown-eyed models. In a second study, blue-eyed men were more likely to have romantic partners of the same eye color.
Behavior Genetics
Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
Extreme environment changes fish appearance
Researchers studied environmental changes on fish appearance, finding restricted food and temperature shifts can dramatically alter morphology. The study has implications for conserving species, suggesting that habitat preservation is crucial to maintaining unique characteristics.
Have traits, will travel: Some butterflies travel farther, reproduce faster
Research on Glanville fritillary butterflies found that females with enhanced flight capabilities reproduce more quickly and establish new populations. The study suggests that genetic differences influence behavior, and the environment favors individuals with certain traits.
Animals resistant to drunken behavior offer clues to alcoholism's roots
Researchers have discovered that animals with altered cytoskeletal structures are less susceptible to alcohol's intoxicating effects. A team of Italian researchers found mice lacking a gene that influences the cellular skeleton became less sensitive to ethanol exposure, leading to increased drinking and reduced neurological damage.
Fruit fly study identifies gene mutation that regulates sensitivity to alcohol
Researchers have identified a gene mutation in fruit flies that regulates sensitivity to alcohol. The study found that some fruit flies were more resistant to alcohol's sedative effects, and the researchers isolated the specific genetic mutation responsible.
Williams Syndrome, the brain and music
A study published in NeuroImage found structural abnormalities in the planum temporale of individuals with Williams syndrome, which may explain their enhanced auditory skills. Despite smaller brain volumes, the temporal lobe was found to be of normal volume, suggesting that other factors contribute to their unique abilities.
Genetic links to schizophrenia focus of international study
An international team, led by UCLA's Roel Ophoff, is conducting a four-year study on schizophrenia that will analyze the human genome of approximately 850 Dutch patients and 750 control subjects to pinpoint related genes. This approach aims to separate false clues from true genetic variants associated with the disorder.
Early to bed, early to rise
A team of German scientists has uncovered a genetic basis for the human familial advanced sleep phase syndrome (FASPS), which causes people to go to sleep and wake up early. The study identified a mutated gene, PER2, and its phosphorylation sites that lead to the disorder's symptoms.
Single genetic defect produces specific cognitive deficit in mice
Researchers found that mice with reduced levels of the acetylcholine transporter had impaired object recognition and social recognition abilities. The study suggests that cholinergic deficits may contribute to cognitive decline in disorders like Alzheimer's disease and aging.
UCLA study uncovers new risk factor for schizophrenia
A new risk factor for schizophrenia has been identified by UCLA scientists, with infants having a specific immune gene that closely resembles their mothers' being more likely to develop the disease. The study suggests that this genetic match may increase fetal susceptibility to schizophrenia, particularly in females.
University of Washington researchers discover novel genomic disorders
Scientists identified several abnormal genetic events in children with mental retardation and pinpointed a specific deletion on chromosome 17, which may account for ~1% of cases. The discovery provides unprecedented insight into the underlying biology and mechanism of genomic disease using NimbleGen's high-resolution CGH microarrays.
The more alcoholic relatives a person has, the more they need to drink to feel alcohol's effects
A new study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that individuals with more alcoholic relatives are more likely to experience alcohol-related problems. The research used data from 376 male participants over 20 years, analyzing the relationships between response to alcohol, family history, and various outcomes.
Einstein researchers take the pulse of a gene in living cells
Researchers at Einstein College of Medicine have observed a phenomenon where a gene plays a major role in organism development, displaying pulses of transcription that turn on and off at irregular intervals. This discovery could enable precise regulation of development by allowing genes to be turned on and off as needed, similar to a t...
Recent, rapid climate change is driving evolution of animal species
Research by University of Oregon scientists reveals that rapid climate change is leading to heritable genetic changes in animal populations. This includes changes in timing of seasonal events, such as earlier reproduction and migration, rather than adaptations to temperature increases.
First whole-genome scan for links to OCD reveals evidence for genetic susceptibility
A whole-genome scan for OCD has identified six potentially significant regions in the genome linked to the condition. These regions are found on five different chromosomes and may hold the key to understanding the genetic basis of OCD.
Fly's courtship sheds light on the formation of innate behaviors
A team of researchers studied the courtship behavior of fruit flies to gain insight into the formation of innate behaviors. They found that a specific gene, Fruitless, plays a crucial role in controlling these behaviors.
Rhesus monkeys in Nepal may provide new alternative for HIV/AIDS research
Researchers found that Nepali rhesus macaques are genetically similar to Indian-origin animals, which could provide a new alternative for HIV/AIDS research. The study suggests that these animals may be representative of Nepali rhesus macaques in general, and their use in research could help address conservation concerns.
Genetic variants and breast cancer risk, genetics and suicidal behavior, and more
Researchers investigated the association between genetic variants and breast cancer risk, as well as apolipoprotein E (apoE) plasma levels and cardiovascular mortality in older adults. The study found no link between CHEK2 gene variants and breast cancer risk, while high apoE levels were associated with increased cardiovascular mortali...
Study links ADHD cognitive and behavioral problems to genetic and environmental interactions
A new study found that lead exposure affects executive function in children with ADHD, particularly those with certain genetic variations. The research suggests that boys are more vulnerable to the negative effects of lead exposure on attentional flexibility.
The greenbeards have blue throats in a breakthrough study of the evolution of altruistic behavior
A new study finds that blue-throated male lizards exhibit true altruism through cooperative partnerships to protect territories. Genetic analysis reveals the complex interaction of multiple genes controlling this behavior, offering insights into the evolution of altruistic cooperation.
Ancient DNA provides clues to the evolution of social behavior
Researchers used ancient and modern DNA to study the decline of Ctenomys sociabilis, a colonial tuco-tuco species. The analysis suggests that population bottlenecks and environmental changes led to the loss of genetic diversity, but also hints at the evolution of social behavior.
Study reveals new genes for excessive alcohol drinking
Researchers have discovered nearly 4,000 genes associated with high and low alcohol consumption in mice, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms underlying excessive drinking. These findings could lead to new targets for treating alcoholism.
For some young fish, early gene expression is a clear harbinger of fated lifestyle
Researchers found that salmonid fish gene expression is controlled by a few major genes and can predict their future lifestyle. This study reveals how programs of gene expression shape different developmental outcomes in these fish, which exhibit exceptional life-history variation.
$10 million gift funds innovative predictive health study
The Fairbanks Institute will conduct a long-term predictive health study using biologics and medical informatics to identify risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Researchers will monitor participants over years to understand biological compensation and gene-environment interactions.
Aggression-related gene weakens brain's impulse control circuits
Research suggests that a specific gene variant linked to aggression impairs the brain's ability to regulate impulses and emotions, particularly in males. This impairment can lead to increased reactivity in the fear hub and reduced activity in higher brain areas that regulate emotional responses.
Active inbreeding avoidance in wild capuchin monkeys
A 14-year study of wild capuchin monkeys reveals that fathers almost never mate with their daughters, despite alpha males siring most offspring from unrelated females. This suggests the evolution of sophisticated behavioral barriers to prevent inbreeding within individual populations.
Genetic and environmental influences on alcohol consumption among rhesus monkeys
A recent study found that additive genetic factors contribute to variation in alcohol consumption among rhesus monkeys, accounting for 20% of total variation. Environmental effects are also significant, with mother-reared animals drinking significantly less than others.
Engineered mouse mimics cognitive aspects of schizophrenia
Researchers created a genetically altered mouse strain with overexpressed dopamine receptors in the striatum, which showed specific cognitive deficits similar to human schizophrenics. The study suggests that cognitive symptoms may arise from subtle genetic differences in the dopamine receptor gene.
Are dancers genetically different than the rest of us? Yes, says Hebrew University researcher
A Hebrew University researcher found genetic differences in 85 dancers and advanced students, affecting serotonin and vasopressin receptors. These variations were also reflected in questionnaire results, highlighting a 'dancer type' with heightened communication and spiritual traits.
Daughters of alcoholics
Daughters of alcoholics exhibit distinct risk factors, with behavioral undercontrol being a strong mediator for both genders. Gender-specific differences are observed in behavior and the impact of parental alcoholism history, particularly for women.
Chinese pre-schoolers show better self control than North Americans, says Queen's psychologist
A study by Queen's University psychologist Mark Sabbagh found that Chinese preschoolers show better self-control than their North American counterparts. Executive functioning skills, which enable focus on goals despite distractions, develop more rapidly in Chinese children.
Chromosome regions containing genes related to alcohol addiction affect drinking behavior in smokers
A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that genetic variations on chromosomes two and four may affect drinking behavior, potentially preceding alcoholism. The research team analyzed DNA from 158 families with a history of smoking to identify genes related to alcohol addiction.
New study examines how sense of smell affects mating and aggression in mice
A new study published in Nature Neuroscience found that male mice require intact functioning of the main olfactory epithelium (MOE) to detect pheromones that elicit sexual behavior and fighting. The MOE plays a crucial role in regulating mating and aggression in mice, highlighting the importance of this sensory system.
Dog genome sequence and analysis published in Nature
The study unlocked genetic variation among dog breeds, revealing ~2.5 million individual genetic differences among breeds that can be used to locate the genetic contributions to physical and behavioral traits. The analysis also found evolutionary conservation with humans, highlighting regions of the human genome that are highly preserv...
Russian River coho recovery project seeing first hopeful signs of success
Recent surveys estimate survival rates of over 54% for released fingerlings, a significant improvement from previous years. The recovery effort uses a captive broodstock program to restore coho populations in the Russian River watershed.
Study of domesticated foxes reveals changes in gene expression as a basis for tame behavior
Researchers found limited changes in brain gene activity in tame silver foxes compared to non-domesticated farm foxes. Tame foxes exhibited dramatic behavioral and physiological changes, but these were associated with only minor genetic alterations.
UCLA scientists report promising new molecular approach to fighting schizophrenia
Researchers discovered sequence variations in the DISC1 gene that predict schizophrenia, neurocognitive deficits, and brain structure abnormalities. The study's findings offer hope for developing a treatment that can prevent or fix the protein's function.
The food you eat could change your genes
Scientists have found that injecting a specific amino acid into rats can alter their gene expression, raising hopes for potential treatments for diseases. The study also showed that certain nutrients can influence gene expression in animals even after birth, sparking interest in the role of diet in shaping our genes.
Malaria risk – it's not all in the genes
Researchers found that household-related factors account for a similar level of variation in susceptibility to malaria as host genetic factors. Children living in high-risk households had twice as many infections per year as those in low-risk households.
Rapid genomic and physiological responses for social dominance
Subordinate male cichlid fish rapidly develop dominant behaviors and physiology after a social opportunity, linked to early expression of the egr-1 gene. The study reveals a neural mechanism linking social status to sexual physiology in animals.
New genetic link to high blood pressure found
Researchers discovered a significant link between a genetic variation in the DRD4 gene and high blood pressure, which could help explain individual risk factors. The study also sheds light on how this gene affects kidney function and blood pressure regulation.
FSU biologists describe key role of signal-transcribing gene during cell cycle
Researchers discover that Cut, a DNA-binding protein, plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation by accurately transcribing Notch signals. Inaccurate transcription leads to unregulated growth and can be linked to various diseases such as Alzheimer's, cancer, and genetic disorders.
Brain protein linked to alcoholism and anxiety
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found a link between a brain protein called CREB and anxiety-related behaviors in rats. Lower levels of CREB were associated with high anxiety and increased alcohol consumption in genetically predisposed rats, suggesting that drinking may be used as a self-medication strategy.
JCI table of contents October 3, 2005
A new study published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation found that decreased function of the CREB gene transcription factor is involved in anxiety and excessive alcohol drinking behavior. Decreased CREB function was shown to be important for maintaining high anxiety and excessive alcohol drinking. This genetic determinant create...
Hitting the bottle with the genetic basis for alcoholism
A new study reveals that decreased CREB gene function in the brain's central amygdala is involved in anxiety and excessive alcohol drinking behavior. This genetic determinant creates a vulnerable neural substrate that interacts with alcohol to create abuse potential.
A novel method to measure circadian cycles
Scientists have developed a novel method to measure circadian cycles in human cells, finding large differences between individuals' rhythms. The study used skin samples infected with a fluorescent virus to track circadian gene expression, confirming the human circadian cycle length of 24.5 hours.
Environment, not genes, key in family relationships
Researchers analyzed data from 674 families with same-sex adolescent pairs to explore the connections between environmental factors and individual traits. The study found three key factors: overall adjustment, independence, and parental monitoring, which explained the complexity of family relationships.
Yerkes to develop first transgenic nonhuman primate model for inherited neurodegenerative diseases
Researchers at Yerkes develop a transgenic nonhuman primate model of Huntington's disease to study disease development and develop treatments and prevention options. The model will be used in high-resolution imaging scans and behavioral studies.
Gambling monkeys give insight into neural machinery of risk
In a study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers found that monkeys overwhelmingly preferred to gamble by looking at the 'risky' target, even when it yielded smaller rewards. The neurons in the posterior cingulate cortex of the brain were found to be signaling the monkeys' subjective valuation of the target.
Disparate mole-rats
Researchers studied the genetic markers of African mole-rats to understand their complex social behavior. They found that these microsatellites can reveal how traits pass from mother to offspring, potentially explaining why family members support a single mother naked mole-rat.
Recent developments on the genetics of alcohol use
Research on the genetics of alcohol use has identified polymorphisms in ADH and ALDH enzymes that may explain individual differences in alcohol metabolism, as well as chromosomal regions linked to suicidal behavior, conduct disorder symptoms, and alcohol dependence. Additionally, serotonin receptor variations have been found to play a ...
Flies on speed offer insight into the roles of dopamine in sleep and arousal
Researchers found that genetically engineered flies with turned-off dopamine cells or those receiving dopamine inhibitors display converse behavioral effects to normal flies on methamphetamine. The study suggests dopamine plays a crucial role in modulating neuronal activity and assigning saliency to sensory stimuli.
Is it me… or my genes?
Edwin Rydberg wins prestigious EMBO Science Writing Prize with his essay Through The Illusions, exploring the link between DNA changes, smoking and schizophrenia. His work showcases a fascinating combination of factors, inspiring new research in popular science writing.
Fruit fly helps reveal the secrets of the fragile-X-syndrome
A recent study using fruit flies has revealed the role of the dFMRP protein in regulating actin dynamics, which is crucial for neuron formation. This research holds promise for a better understanding of fragile-X-syndrome and brain development.
Genes exert powerful effect on sexual behavior
Researchers found that genetic manipulation of the fruitless gene in females led to classic male sexual behavior patterns, including courtship dances. The study suggests a strong biological basis for sexual behavior and orientation in animal species.
Geneticists identify 'master switch' that causes female flies to behave like males
Researchers have discovered a single gene, fruitless, that determines how females and males detect and respond differently to sexual cues. Activating this gene in female flies produces male-like courtship behaviors, challenging the assumption that males and females perceive the world similarly.
Single gene is genetic switch for fly sexual behavior
A new study found that a single gene, Fruitless, is responsible for controlling fly sexual behavior. The researchers discovered that female flies with the male version of the protein behave like males and engage in nearly identical courtship rituals.
MRI study shows hormone leptin alters brains, may ease cravings of people with obesity gene
Researchers found that leptin replacement treatment altered brain structure and reduced cravings for people with an obesity gene. The study suggests new potential treatments for weight-related issues.
Examining the serotonin transporter gene and family function
A Swedish study found that adolescents with a specific genetic variation in the serotonin transporter gene and poor family relationships are more likely to engage in high-intoxication frequency. Conversely, a favorable family environment can protect against genetic vulnerability. The study suggests an interaction between genetic and en...
Remote control flies?: Fly behavior controlled by laser light
Researchers use genetically engineered flies to demonstrate controlled neural manipulation, offering a promising approach for studying behavior and potentially treating neurological disorders. The system involves triggering molecular lock-and-key interactions with laser light, enabling precise activation of specific nerve cells.