Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
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.
Researchers at the Salk Institute found a genetic connection between organophosphate exposure and ADHD-like behavior, as well as symptoms similar to Gulf War syndrome. Mice exposed to organophosphates showed a 40% decrease in the NTE enzyme, leading to behavioral changes and neurological problems.
Researchers discovered that MHC proteins, including M10, play a crucial role in detecting and modulating pheromone activity in mice. The findings suggest that these proteins may act as escorts for pheromone receptors, allowing them to reach the surface of neurons where chemical reception takes place.
Researchers discovered a correlation between a specific genetic variation in the COMT gene and higher levels of anxiety in women. Women with the COMT Met158/Met158 genotype tended to exhibit increased anxiety symptoms, as well as altered brain wave patterns associated with anxiety disorders.
A recent study by Dr. Douglas Wahlsten found that environmental influences significantly impact experiment outcomes in mice, including motor coordination and psychological learning tasks. The study suggests that even small factors like odors and experimenter conduct can have a profound effect on behavior.
Researchers found a significant association between the DQB1_05 and _04 alleles and sleepwalking disorder, suggesting that these genes play a role in disorders of motor control during sleep. The study identified Ser74 as a key genetic marker for sleepwalking, providing new insights into its underlying mechanisms.
Duke University researchers used a new statistical method called ordered subset analysis to identify a strong link between the GABRB3 gene and autism. By grouping patients with similar traits together statistically, they discovered a genetic risk factor that was missed by looking at the larger group.
Researchers found that tiny differences in DNA can identify geographic ancestry, contradicting the idea that self-reported ancestry is a reliable diagnostic tool. Genetic analysis of 1,056 individuals from 52 populations worldwide revealed more genetic similarities than previously thought.
A multicenter study identified a positive association between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and a serotonergic receptor gene variant. This genetic phenotype may represent an early onset risk factor for the disorder, suggesting age of onset should be considered in molecular genetic studies.
Scientists have identified small non-messenger RNA molecules, known as smnRNA, in genes associated with behavioral disorders. These findings suggest a new class of gene activity and regulation, potentially linked to conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome.
Research finds that genes manage related traits in plant parts, like flowers, to optimize reproduction and survival. A single genetic mechanism regulates the growth of flower parts in correlation, enabling precise construction and successful pollination.
Researchers have identified a gene called takeout that plays a key role in controlling the sex drive of male fruit flies. Takeout is regulated by sex-specific forms of the master gene regulators DSX and FRU, and its expression in the head is required for normal courtship behavior.
Researchers discovered that nociceptive neurons trigger group feeding behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans, a species of worm. The findings build on earlier research and have potential relevance to understanding human eating behaviors and obesity.
Researchers identified a gene on chromosome 1 linked to drinking patterns in individuals with anxiety-type behavior. The study suggests that studying quantitative measures of drinking may help identify genes involved in alcohol use and problematic drinking.
An international team of scientists found that birds use alternative reproductive behaviors to avoid inbreeding depression when mates are genetically similar. Extra-pair paternity and quasi-parasitism occur at low frequencies, but more importantly, extra-pair parentage occurs when parents are more related to each other.
A genetic variation in monoamine oxidase A (MAO A) enzyme may protect maltreated children against antisocial behavior, with a ninefold increased risk of aggression in those with low enzyme activity. In contrast, higher MAO A levels were associated with trauma resistance and reduced behavior problems.
Researchers identified a significant link between a specific gene variant and increased risk of antisocial behavior in maltreated children. The study found that individuals with a certain variation of the MAOA gene were more likely to develop behavioral problems, comparable to major risk factors for heart disease.
Researchers found that male and female rats selectively bred for high and low sensitivity to alcohol also exhibited differences in their response to nicotine. The study suggests that genetic factors may contribute to the co-occurrence of these two substances in individuals, highlighting the need for further research on this topic.
Researchers used DNA microarrays to analyze 40% of the fruit fly genome and found that genetic changes are the result of many small contributors. The study's findings suggest that human genetic biases may also be caused by small changes in multiple genes.
Researchers have identified two genes that play a crucial role in sleep function, found in both fruit flies and humans. These genes control the internal clock and protect against stress, highlighting the importance of sleep in maintaining overall health.
Scientists have identified several genes that affect how much alcohol reaches the brain and how long it remains there, shedding light on individual differences in alcohol metabolism. The findings could lead to new treatments for alcoholism and highlight the importance of further research into the genetic factors involved.
A German study on mice found that genetic variations in a key stress-response gene may contribute to excessive alcohol consumption under stressful conditions. The researchers identified a specific receptor, CRH1, which is associated with increased alcohol intake in stressed mice, suggesting potential targets for preventing relapse.
A study of 74 adult patients with sleepwalking found a strong association with the HLA DQB1*05 genetic susceptibility, which also increases muscle activity during REM sleep. Researchers believe treating underlying health issues may help improve or resolve sleepwalking.
A recent study found that Europeans are largely unaware of the genetic modifications in their food products, despite high levels of opposition to GMOs. Consumers tend to bid lower prices for genetically modified foods only when they perceive a significant difference in taste or quality.
A review of eight randomized studies on biomarkers and health behavior change found that providing quantitative information about harm exposure and disease risk increased motivation for healthy behaviors. However, lasting change may require appropriate treatment.
Researchers have found a genetic susceptibility locus on chromosome 1 that may contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa. The study used a genome-wide linkage analysis and identified a possible AN-susceptibility gene on chromosome 1p, adding to growing evidence supporting the role of genetics in eating disorders.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that panic disorder and manic depressive (bipolar) illness are likely related genetically and share a common cause. The study analyzed 203 families with bipolar disorder and identified symptoms of major mood disorders in relatives, showing a strong genetic link between the conditions.
Research finds a genetic basis for behavior in infancy, linking attachment disorganization to dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphisms. The study identifies specific variants that enhance the risk of disorganized attachment, supporting the role of DRD4 as a genetic susceptibility factor.
Researchers have found that mice with a knocked-out Hoxb8 gene exhibit excessive grooming behavior, creating bald spots and skin wounds. This discovery suggests that Hox genes may regulate behavior in the adult brain, offering potential insights into human obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed a system to study genetics and evolution in natural populations using the three-spine stickleback fish. They found parallels between laboratory genetics and evolutionary changes in the fish, suggesting that evolution can occur through large-effect gene changes.
A study led by Dr. Jeffery M. Vance found significant evidence of linkage between the tau gene and late-onset Parkinson's in three single nucleotide polymorphisms. The research suggests that normal variations in the tau protein may make individuals more susceptible to the disease.
A study found that a person's neighborhood alcohol-outlet density is a significant risk factor for certain injuries, including sprains and bruises. The research suggests that programs and policies aimed at reducing alcohol-related problems should consider the role of neighborhood alcohol outlets.
Researchers Dorret Boomsma, Hans Clevers, Bert Meijer, and Hans Oerlemans were awarded for their pioneering work in human behavioural genetics, the discovery of cancer causes, molecular architecture, and icecap dynamics. Their findings have significant implications for our understanding of intelligence, anxiety, and climate change.
Research finds a link between family history of alcoholism, serotonin variation, and behavioral problems in children. Children with a genetic variant associated with increased serotonin reuptake are more likely to exhibit impulsivity, depression, and anxiety.
Researchers have identified a protein in fruit flies that resembles the molecule targeted by cocaine, offering insights into its addictive properties. The discovery of this protein, called dDAT, could lead to genetic manipulation and behavioral studies.
Research suggests a genetic link between dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphism and attachment disorganization in infants, with extensive disorganized behavior observed in up to 80% of high-risk infants. The study's findings imply a genetic susceptibility to the collapse of organized attachment under stress.
Women at high risk for ovarian cancer experience depression when concerned about passing the disease to their daughters. A study found that 33% of participants were depressed during initial assessments and 38% during follow-ups, with concern for daughters being a leading source of distress.
Researchers genetically altered mice adrenoceptor 2C expression to study stress response. The results showed differential behavioral responses in treated vs. untreated mice, as well as changes in plasma corticosterone levels and brain dopamine/serotonin content. This study highlights the importance of single-gene mutations in respondin...
Researchers have identified a region on rat chromosome 4 containing genes strongly affecting emotionality-related behavior, which only affects female rats. This discovery may provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying emotional disorders in women.
Scientists created a new mouse strain with a genetic deletion that affects stress hormones and behavior. The mice exhibit anxiety-like behavior consistently, not just in response to external stimuli, offering insights into the role of CRH-binding protein in depression and anxiety disorders.
A NIAAA-led study confirms that environmental factors can significantly impact the behavior of genetically identical mice, challenging traditional assumptions about genetic determinism. The research highlights the need for laboratories to replicate tests locally and standardize behavioral tests to minimize environmental influences.
Researchers discovered a link between the dopamine transporter gene (SLC6A3-9) and cigarette smoking behavior. Individuals carrying this gene were less likely to start smoking before age 16 and more likely to quit smoking, with an average of one and a half times greater success rate.
The divide between biology and behavioral sciences is growing, leading to misconceptions about cause-and-effect relationships in health. Researchers warn that this gap may hinder the development of effective therapies and treatments.
A single gene is responsible for the social behavior of roundworms, which may hold clues to understanding human social behaviors. The gene variation affects how nematodes respond to environmental stimuli and recognize pheromones.
Researchers found a correlation between genetic variants and novelty-seeking and neuroticism genes in two-week-old babies. The study used the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale to assess behavioral responses to human and non-human stimuli, revealing early signs of potential psychiatric disorders.
Researchers at the University of Virginia have discovered that fruit flies respond to cocaine in a similar manner as humans, using similar biochemical pathways. This breakthrough may lead to highly specific drugs to treat cocaine addiction, based on genetic and biochemical insights gained from studying the flies.
A University of Illinois geneticist criticizes the misuse of genetics in society, citing the controversial book 'The Bell Curve' as an example. Jerry Hirsch argues that the field has been misunderstood and mishandled, leading to flawed conclusions about intelligence and racism.
A study by Cornell University biologist Stephen T. Emlen found that evolutionary predispositions, such as helping closely related kin, can lead to conflict and violence in modern families. The biologist suggests that increasing awareness of these inherited behaviors can help minimize damage in stepfamily situations.
A 22-year study found that socially dominant men, characterized by monopolizing conversations and excessive competitiveness, had a 60% higher rate of all-cause mortality compared to less dominant individuals. This suggests that social dominance is a moderate risk factor for early death.
Researchers discovered a genetic basis for the hormonal mechanism regulating drone development in male honey bees, which accelerates their growth and allows them to mature early. The findings provide evolutionary insight into the mechanisms controlling worker bee behavior and could lead to new tools for brain research.
A study found that certain genetic variants next to the human obesity (OB) gene are associated with obesity in young women, as well as depression and anxiety. The results suggest a direct link between the OB gene variants and depression, rather than just secondary effects.