Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
Research reveals that autistic children have significantly lower levels of glutathione, a major intracellular antioxidant, indicating increased oxidative stress. Genetic polymorphisms in three genes (catecho-O-methyltransferase, transcobalamin II, and glutathione-S-transferase M1) are also found to be elevated in autistic children.
Researchers at the University of Washington have identified separate genes that influence decoding speed and accuracy in individuals with dyslexia. The study, published in Molecular Psychiatry, found that genetic influences on speed and accuracy are distinct, with chromosome 2 playing a significant role.
A large-scale study identified a genetic basis for certain behaviors, including alcohol consumption, suggesting that genetic make-up may influence drinking habits. The research focused on the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2) and found a strong association between this gene variant and alcohol consumption.
A deeper understanding of behavioral biology is necessary to improve laws, according to Vanderbilt law professor Owen Jones. By integrating life science and social science perspectives on behavior, laws can be more effective in pursuing their goals.
Scientists have discovered that an estrogen receptor, ERβ, plays a crucial role in regulating defeminization, a process by which males lose female-like behavior. The study found that neonatal males are exposed to estrogen produced by their testes, leading to changes in gene expression and neural architecture.
Research reveals genetic connections between nicotine tolerance, aggression, and neurotransmitter systems. Gene polymorphisms influence animal behavior, potentially explaining why humans develop addiction.
Researchers have identified networks of genes that respond to alcohol in the brain, which may play a role in determining genetic differences in behavioral responses to alcohol. The study found that certain genes were regulated differently in two mouse strains, leading to distinct behavioral responses to alcohol.
Researchers discovered a single genetic difference between rats susceptible and resistant to apomorphine, leading to reduced activity of the g-secretase enzyme. This imbalance was found to be associated with behavioral differences in the rats.
Researchers highlight the need for accurate measurements of race in health and social science research to address racial health disparities. They propose using direct measurement of underlying social and environmental exposures instead of relying on self-identified racial groups.
A new study reveals that genetics, not environment, determines an ant's role in the colony. Harvester ants from southeastern Arizona and New Mexico show a surprising tendency to produce sterile workers when mating with males from different genetic lineages.
Researchers found that reducing insulin-like molecules in fruit fly brains increases the intoxicating effect of alcohol, mimicking human vulnerabilities. Insulin regulates behavior and may be crucial in determining response to addictive drugs, offering potential therapy for alcoholism.
Researchers will enroll 100-150 children with autism, along with their parents and unaffected siblings, to conduct detailed behavioral evaluations and DNA analysis. The study aims to identify genetic differences and patterns that mark different autistic spectrum disorders, providing clues to their biological causes.
Researchers found a clear correlation between female promiscuity and rapid evolution of the semenogelin protein in various primate species. This suggests that intense sexual competition drives genetic adaptation, with genes evolving faster in species with more promiscuous females.
A recent study examined the genetic factors underlying a low response to alcohol and found potential links to several gene categories. The research suggests that these genes could play a significant role in the development of alcoholism, particularly in individuals who experience little or no effect from drinking.
A study in flies reveals that rapid and chronic tolerance operate via different neurobiological mechanisms and genes. Rapid tolerance is blocked by a drug inhibiting protein synthesis, while a fly mutant lacking octopamine shows reduced rapid tolerance.
Koller's research uses algorithms, probabilistic modeling, and Bayesian networks to represent complex information with high uncertainty. Her work has implications in artificial intelligence and genetic data analysis, and she is optimistic about identifying patterns of gene expression across species.
A new information system will help researchers understand the relationship between genes and behavior in honey bees. The BeeSpace system will provide a comprehensive environment for analyzing genomic data, enabling scientists to identify key roles in social behavior.
The NHGRI has launched four centers to pioneer interdisciplinary research on the ethical, legal and social implications of genomic knowledge. The centers will assemble teams of experts to develop innovative approaches to addressing pressing issues in genome research.
A mouse study has identified a potential genetic link between NPAS3 and NPAS1 genes and psychosis. The mutated mice displayed deficits consistent with schizophrenia, including impaired social interaction and startle response. Further research is needed to confirm the connection.
Researchers found that worms seek mates when alone but remain near food sources with potential mates. In cone-only retinas, rod bipolar neurons maintain their morphology and connectivity despite lacking rods, while remaining light-sensitive.
Researchers found that Homer1 or Homer2 gene knockout mice showed greater preference for chambers associated with cocaine administration and increased motivation to self-administer cocaine. They also exhibited neurochemical changes characteristic of addiction, including reduced glutamate levels during withdrawal.
Researchers discovered a cluster of 60 nerve cells choreographing the courtship ritual in male flies. Interfering with these cells resulted in reproductive failure and abnormal behaviors, supporting the idea that basic circuitry mediates attraction and mating across species.
Scientists have identified a genetic basis for alcohol response in roundworms, discovering that subtle variations in the NPR-1 gene affect tolerance. The study found that strains with higher levels of NPR-1 protein exhibit reduced ability to recover from alcohol exposure.
Researchers found thimerosal exposure in mice led to autism-like behaviors, including abnormal responses to environments and brain abnormalities. The study suggests a potential connection between genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers for autism, highlighting the need for further research and intervention strategies.
Researchers found that zebrafish learn to prefer one fish color pattern over another based on their early experience with these patterns. This learned social preference has significant impacts on the survival and reproductive success of individual fish.
Researchers suggest that male vulnerability to disease may drive female-biased societies and behaviors, such as division of labor. This 'sick-male' theory proposes that males are less resistant to infection due to genetic limitations, leading to social isolation and reduced exposure to disease.
Researchers found children who developed wheezing symptoms after age 3 had significant behavior problems before, compared to those who never wheezed. The study suggests a possible common factor, such as genetics or parental smoking, that accounts for both wheezing and behavior problems in children.
Scientists analyzed the genomes of over 300 breeds and found similarities with human diseases. The study reveals distinct DNA blueprints for each breed, which may help uncover genes responsible for unique traits and behaviors.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have identified a genetic sequence for the anti-bacterial protein Escapin found in sea slugs. The protein prevents bacteria from growing on surfaces, making it a potential solution for preventing biofilm formation and associated problems.
In a groundbreaking study, Robert Sapolsky and Lisa Share found evidence of a pacific culture among wild olive baboons in Kenya, where males became less aggressive after an outbreak of TB. This unique cultural tradition suggests that females may play a key role in regulating male behavior.
Researchers at Stanford University challenge the existence of a single supercolony of Argentine ants spanning California. Instead, they propose that multiple genetically distinct colonies have colonized the state over the past century.
Research reveals that beavers' selective herbivory affects plant types in their community, favoring hybrid cottonwoods with lower tannin levels. This study suggests a link between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems through genetically-based plant traits.
Researchers analyzed DNA from western gorilla fecal and hair samples to find that neighboring social groups are often led by genetically related males. This suggests connections between genetic relationships and group interactions, parallels with human social structures, and clues to the early human social world.
Researchers have found that genetic variations can affect an individual's response to alcohol, with some genes contributing to increased sensitivity and others to tolerance. The study suggests that understanding these biological markers can help develop new treatments for alcohol dependence.
The NHLBI's Specialized Centers of Clinically Oriented Research program aims to improve treatment and outcomes for children with congenital heart defects by fostering multidisciplinary collaborations. The $68 million grant will support five new centers, each addressing a critical public health need in pediatric cardiovascular research.
Researchers found that Dahl R rats exhibit efficient spatial navigation, while Dahl S rats display poor spatial navigation. Analysis of F1 male progeny implicated the X chromosome in the impairment observed in Dahl S rats.
The study found an association between a specific GABA receptor gene and alcohol dependence, suggesting a potential genetic link. The findings support the idea that brain overactivation may contribute to predisposition to alcoholism.
A study found that NS temperament in adulthood was predicted by an interaction between the DRD4 gene polymorphism and a hostile childhood rearing environment. Participants with certain genetic variants and adverse childhood experiences had a higher risk of exhibiting high novelty seeking scores.
A national study aims to identify environmental and genetic causes of multiple system atrophy (MSA), a progressive neurological disorder with an average onset age of 54. Researchers will investigate potential risk factors, including toxin exposure and alpha-synuclein aggregation, in 175 MSA patients and 350 control subjects.
Researchers found that genetic factors play a significant role in coping behaviors, with females exhibiting inherited traits from their grandmothers. The study suggests that understanding the genetic basis of coping behaviors could help develop new treatments for psychiatric disorders.
A new study links variations in the GAD2 gene to obesity and Type 1 diabetes, revealing a potential connection between food intake regulation and body weight control. Researchers hope to further unravel the underlying biology of eating behavior and explore genetic connections to obesity.
Research on blue tits found that extra-pair copulations with distant males lead to more heterozygous offspring, resulting in improved survival and reproductive success. This study suggests that females can benefit from promiscuity by increasing the genetic quality of their progeny.
Linda Brzustowicz will lead research on hereditary patterns of autistic behaviors, analyzing 'trio' samples from autistic individuals and their parents to define genes linked to the disorder. The study aims to better understand, treat, and potentially prevent autism.
Researchers will use single-celled social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum to uncover genes and molecular pathways underlying sociality. The project aims to understand how social forces create evolutionary pressures and control opportunistic behavior.
A randomized, controlled clinical trial found that Tai Chi Chih increased immunity to the varicella zoster virus in older adults at risk for herpes zoster. The study showed significant improvements in both immunity and physical functioning without any negative effects.
A recent study of five baboon groups found that male baboons overwhelmingly sided with their offspring in disputes, suggesting paternal care may be an ancient trait in primates. The study, which monitored 75 juvenile baboons for whom fathers were clearly identified, provides new insights into the evolution of complex social behavior.
Researchers found that male baboons give priority care to their own genetically related offspring, despite multiple males mating with the same female. This discovery raises questions about how male baboons recognize and distinguish between their genetic and behavioral offspring.
The UGA research team has identified a molecular key to cell division, which could lead to new targets for cancer therapeutics. The study found that cyclin-dependent kinases drive the mitosis process and that molecules called oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes are controlled by novel mechanisms.
A study at the Salk Institute found that children with Williams syndrome exhibit unique social behavior patterns, including high scores on tests measuring social interactions. Genetic screening revealed that one gene may be responsible for this hyper-sociability in some individuals, suggesting a potential genetic link to the disorder.
A recent study found an association between the DdeI polymorphism of the DRD1 gene and sensation seeking among alcoholic males. The research suggests that genetic factors, such as this specific dopamine receptor gene, may play a role in understanding the complex disorder of alcoholism.
The NIMH has awarded $22.6 million to a new Center for Collaborative Research on Mental Disorders, aiming to advance understanding of genetic origins of mental health conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. The center will facilitate data sharing and analysis to accelerate gene discovery and develop novel therapeutic targets.
Researchers have discovered cooperation between genetically similar but unrelated male blue-throated lizards, challenging the traditional theory of kin selection. The study found that these cooperative males exhibit higher fitness levels and improved reproductive success due to their neighborhood relationships.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine reveal the crucial last step involved in long term depression, a process thought to underlie learning and memory. By blocking this step, they created a mouse with weakened connections that didn't affect behavior, paving the way for studying GluR2's role in motor skills.
Studies link serotonin deficiency to aggressive behavior, while environment and genetics also play a role. Researchers explore potential therapies, such as Prozac and Dilantin, to address underlying causes.
A team of researchers discovered a genetic break in human chromosome 14 affecting brain development and behavior. The broken gene may contribute to mental illness, including schizophrenia, in affected families. The study provides a crucial piece of the puzzle in understanding the complex disease.
Researchers found that channeled whelks, a species of marine snail, have distinct feeding behaviors along the Pacific coast. Genetic analysis revealed that these differences are likely due to genetic isolation and regional variations in prey availability.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a method to extract DNA from dung, enabling the study of wild animal populations without capturing or handling them. This technique has been shown to be reliable and efficient, allowing researchers to analyze genetic data on species such as Asian elephants, rhinos, and apes.
A study led by Darlene Francis found that early-life environments significantly impact stress behaviors and learning abilities in mice. Mice transferred to high-stress surrogate mothers after birth showed increased stress-reactive behaviors and poorer cognitive performance compared to those raised by low-stress mothers.
A new study in rats reveals that gene activity plays a significant role in brain aging and cognitive impairment. The research identified 146 genes associated with age-related changes in memory performance, including those involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal function.
Researchers found that cloned pig behavior is not identical to the original animal's behavior. Cloning increases variability associated with some traits, making it difficult to predict the behavior of cloned animals.