Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers found that approximately 3.3% of families engage in 'coupon-collection behavior', where they have children of both sexes except for the last-born child, reducing sex-ratio variation. The trend is more pronounced in recent decades and suggests a growing desire for gender equality.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a connection between a genetic alteration and social difficulties related to autism. By targeting the oxytocin signaling pathway, they achieved promising results in an animal model and found that treatment with a pharmacological inhibitor can normalize social behavior.
Research has found that the brains of humans, flies, and mice share similar mechanisms for brain development and function. This similarity can be interpreted in two ways: as evidence of a single ancestral brain or independent evolution of brain circuits. The study identified shared genetic regulatory mechanisms controlling brain area f...
A recent study from Washington University in St. Louis found that older male rhesus monkeys sire significantly fewer offspring than younger males, despite high social status and mating rates. The researchers suggest that age-related decline in sperm quality or quantity may be the primary factor behind this phenomenon.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a key brain region, the cerebellum's Rcrus1, which regulates repetitive and inflexible behaviors in individuals with autism. Inhibiting activity in this region improved social behaviors, while stimulation restored social functions, offering potential new therapies for ASD.
A new study found that genomic traits of the hive are strongly associated with how fiercely its soldiers attack. The research suggests that the genetic makeup of the society, not individual bee genetics, plays a key role in aggression.
A study found that early marriage can exacerbate risky alcohol use among individuals with a high genetic predisposition, contradicting the traditional view of marriage as a protective factor. The research suggests that early life events may not be as protective against poor mental and physical health outcomes as previously thought.
Dolphins use complex techniques like 'shelling' to obtain food, a behavior comparable to tool use in humans. A study revealed that dolphins learn new foraging methods mainly through social transmission among peers, similar to great apes and gorillas. This discovery expands our understanding of how dolphins adapt to changing environment...
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified over 40 genes expressed in the vLGN and discovered six new neuron subtypes, each with unique molecules and clustered in tightly packed striped layers. The study provides a more precise tool kit to understand the function of the vLGN and its downstream connections.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki found that genetic parallelism, a phenomenon where similar changes occur in different populations, is approximately 10-fold higher in the Eastern Pacific compared to the rest of the world. This suggests that the conditions for parallel evolution may be exceptional rather than common.
A new study found that specific gut bacteria in worms can modify their behavior, directing them to choose certain food sources. The bacteria influence neural circuit activity by producing chemicals like tyramine, which increase tolerance for certain smells.
Researchers found a causal link between prolonged loneliness and increased likelihood of smoking behavior, including starting to smoke, smoking more cigarettes, and decreasing chances of quitting. The study used Mendelian randomization, a novel research method, to explore the relationship between loneliness and substance abuse.
Researchers found that early genetic restoration of the SHANK3 gene rescued behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder, including social interaction and repetitive grooming. The study suggests that genetic intervention in SHANK3-related ASD may be most effective earlier in development.
Scientists used genomic analysis to assess genetic variability in 17 seal species, finding that past population fluctuations have had a significant effect on contemporary populations. The study estimates the risk of genetic impoverishment and inbreeding, with implications for conservation efforts.
A team of researchers found that sweat bees switch from solitary to social behavior by repurposing ancient genes, challenging the long-held assumption that new genetic variants are always necessary for evolution. The study provides evidence that environmental influences can drive the evolution of complex traits like social behavior.
A recent study analyzing data from over three million individuals found widespread sex-differential participation bias, suggesting that men and women are more likely to participate in genetic studies based on different characteristics. This bias can impact the accuracy of results and conclusions drawn from genetic association studies.
A team of UTHSC researchers will study genetic differences in stress response, oxycodone consumption and stress-induced drug seeking in rats. The findings have great potential to translate to human conditions of opioid addiction.
A genetic analysis of brook trout in Loyalsock Creek drainage reveals that fish are moving between tributaries, using the mainstem as a seasonal corridor. This finding contradicts previous research and suggests that conservation efforts should focus on larger streams and rivers to protect critical movement corridors.
A study published in the Journal of Mammalogy found that Wyoming pronghorn exhibit high levels of genetic connectivity across the state, contradicting previous research suggesting barriers to gene flow. The researchers suggest periodic monitoring of genetic structure and diversity as part of management strategies.
Researchers at the University of Ottawa have discovered a new sex hormone in zebrafish that regulates sexual behavior and reproduction. The hormone, secretoneurin peptide, was found to restore sexual function in genetically modified fish by increasing hormone release and enhancing ovulation.
A genome-wide analysis has identified 19 new genetic risk factors for problematic alcohol use and confirmed 10 previously known factors. The study also found shared genetic associations with psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.
The study suggests that cells can be understood as electrical entities, enabling predictive biological understanding and potential new treatments for conditions like heart failure and diabetes. The researchers' bioelectrical conceptualisation of cells could pave the way for breakthroughs in healthcare.
Researchers at MUSC have found a connection between a defective copy of the MEF2C gene and autism behaviors. This rare form of autism is caused by one of two MEF2C genes in each cell being nonfunctioning, leading to issues such as language difficulties, epilepsy, and breathing problems.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that menopause can reduce cognitive function and potentially play a role in Alzheimer's development in women. Animal studies using surgically induced menopause in rats showed poor memory and learning, indicating a decline in cognitive function.
A research team found that PTPδ is crucial for synaptic development and sleep behavior in mice. Genetic deletion of PTPδ leads to disruptions in brain structure, function, and behavior, resulting in hyper-locomotor activity, increased anxiety, and decreased sleep.
Researchers developed an optical brain-to-brain interface that supports fast and accurate information transmission for locomotion control. The interface uses fiber photometry to record population Ca2+ signals from identified neurons, achieving a three-fold increase in information transfer rates compared to previous BtBIs.
Researchers at UC Riverside found that paternal alcohol exposure before conception can negatively impact brain development and behavior in offspring. Choline supplementation during pregnancy showed promise in reducing adverse outcomes associated with prenatal alcohol exposure.
CABBI researchers have developed a triad of innovative tools to engineer low-pH-tolerant yeast Issatchenkia orientalis for production of valuable bioproducts. The three tools facilitate genetic expression, DNA assembly, and stability in the yeast strain, enabling its use as a robust organic acid producer.
Researchers discovered that TBK1 mutations in mice with ALS-like symptoms initially slow disease progression but later accelerate it. The study sheds light on the complex relationship between ALS genetics and its mechanisms, highlighting challenges in developing safe treatments.
Researchers developed a method to engineer specific populations of neurons to manufacture electronic-tissue composites within living cells. This approach enables targeted use of electrical fields for therapeutic applications, such as pain relief and tissue regeneration.
Scientists create a technique to transform cells into chemical engineers that use synthetic materials to construct functional polymers with specific properties. They successfully built artificial structures on mammalian brain cells and neurons in the worm C. elegans, which can alter their behaviors.
Researchers discovered a temperature-sensing nerve cell that transmits signals activating or inhibiting receiving nerve cells, explaining how worms respond to good or bad temperatures. Genetic studies identified three conserved genes involved in this response, suggesting a similar mechanism may exist in higher organisms.
A new study reveals that random variation in brain development generates behavioral diversity in fruit flies, contradicting the nature vs nurture debate. The origin of unique behavioral idiosyncrasies lies in individual differences in neural circuit wiring, which significantly influence behavior.
African pastoralists, specifically the Himba community, exhibit a remarkably high rate of extra-pair paternity, with 48% of children fathered by non-marital partners. The study highlights how social norms support this practice, unlike in many Western societies where it is stigmatized.
Children separated from their parents for extended periods may experience long-term genetic changes due to elevated cortisol levels. The study highlights the importance of parental care on a child's genes and behavior.
A new study suggests that human cooperativity is an outcome of competition between cultural groups. Researchers found that culturally different groups compete, leading to the spread of traits that give groups a competitive edge, including cooperation.
A study in Nature Communications reveals that the unique perfume chemistry of two species of orchid bees, Euglossa viridissima and Euglossa dilemma, is driven by a single olfactory receptor gene. The researchers found that the two species can be distinguished by their distinct perfume compounds, which are mediated by the OR41 gene.
A new study using VA Million Veteran Program data identified five locations on the human genome related to anxiety risk in Americans of European descent and one in African Americans. The findings could lead to new understanding and treatment of anxiety disorders, which affect 1 in 10 Americans.
A recent study found that genetic data can accurately predict stroke risk, identifying individuals with a three-fold higher risk of ischemic stroke. This method is more precise than existing estimates based on clinical risk factors and can help pinpoint modifiable risk factors to mitigate the risk.
A new model for the evolution of mating systems focuses on genetically determined behaviors, competition among different behavioral strategies, and social interactions. The conflict between cooperative and competitive behaviors drives evolutionary transitions from one mating system to another.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that good sleep habits can compensate for a high genetic risk of heart disease and stroke. Researchers analyzed over 385,000 participants and found that those with healthy sleep patterns had a 35% reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
The study reveals that inbreeding is high among southern white rhinos due to their unique mating behavior, which includes female preference for individual males over others.
Researchers have identified a new species of bobtail squid in Okinawa's waters, named Euprymna brenneri, which is the eleventh known in the Euprymna genus. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of cephalopods off the coast of Okinawa and may shed light on their genes, behavior, and development.
Researchers discovered that a genetic mutation affecting neural crest cell behavior is linked to docility and facial features in modern humans. This study provides the first empirical validation of the self-domestication hypothesis, suggesting that human evolution led to changes in neural crest cells.
Researchers made progress in understanding protein conformation and accumulation in familial ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disorder affecting 1-3 individuals per 100,000. The study sheds light on the interaction between normal and mutant Sod1 proteins, revealing misfolding as a central problem in ALS.
A study published in eLife analyzed ancient genetic data to investigate the decline of great auks. The findings suggest that intense hunting by humans likely caused their rapid extinction, even if the birds weren't already under threat from environmental changes. This highlights the potential for industrial-scale exploitation to drive ...
Uppsala researchers developed a new method to investigate dynamic processes in large genetic libraries using DuMPLING. This approach enables the examination of thousands of living cells in a single microfluidic chip, linking genetic information to complex cell behavior. The study focuses on bacterial cell cycle regulation and aims to i...
Researchers found that Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) and white-faced plover (Charadrius dealbatus) diverged around half a million years ago due to sea level changes. The study revealed high genetic divergence on sex chromosomes, suggesting sexual selection played a role in species evolution.
Researchers found that gene activity in brain regions called song nuclei is associated with species-specific patterns of singing in songbirds. The study identified a signaling molecule called BDNF as a mediator of changes in trans-regulated genes, which disrupted the structures of learned songs in adult zebra finches.
Researchers create algorithm to identify stable traits that capture mouse behavior, revealing unique individual characteristics and genetic basis. The method has potential to advance knowledge of mouse personality and its relation to mental health and disease.
A long-term study of red deer on the Isle of Rum has found that genetic change due to natural selection is contributing to the species' shift towards earlier birth times. This trend is linked to increased reproductive success and the spread of genes associated with breeding earlier.
Researchers have discovered that genetic changes caused by natural selection are contributing to an early shift in the birth dates of wild red deer on Scotland's Isle of Rum. The deer population has been adapting to a warming climate, giving birth three days earlier per decade since the 1980s.
Researchers developed a polygenic risk score tool to predict depression in medical residents under intense stress. The study found that interns with higher scores were more likely to develop depression, while those with lower scores showed resilience.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that genetic variants associated with higher educational attainment were linked to a reduced risk of alcohol dependence. Higher educated individuals also tended to drink less frequently and consumed fewer spirits, beer, and cider.
Research from the University of South Australia found that young maternal age at first birth is strongly associated with an increased risk of having a child with ADHD. The study, published in Nature's Scientific Reports, explored the genetic relationship between female reproductive traits and key psychiatric disorders.
Researchers found that acetate from alcohol metabolism alters proteins that regulate DNA function in the brain, affecting gene expression and behavior. This discovery provides a new understanding of the biology behind cravings and offers potential targets for treating alcohol abuse and fetal alcohol syndrome.
Researchers identified a new neurological syndrome caused by IQSEC1 gene mutations, affecting five patients from consanguineous families in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The study used fruit flies and mice to demonstrate that defective IQSEC1 proteins contribute to intellectual disability and neural development defects.
A major new study reveals how socio-economic migration within the UK has affected the geographic distribution of human DNA linked to traits such as education levels and health. Regional variations in human DNA have long been known to reflect distant ancestry differences.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a new therapeutic approach to treat symptoms associated with PTEN deficiency, which is linked to autism and other neurological disorders. The treatment targets the mTORC2 complex and has shown promising results in reversing behavioral abnormalities and reducing seizures in mice.
The All of Us Research Program awards $7 million to HudsonAlpha to evaluate leading-edge DNA sequencing technologies. The project aims to generate genetic data on 6,000 participants, revealing elusive genetic variations associated with rare diseases.