Articles tagged with Behavior Genetics
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.
Broadening diversity among participants enhances genomic studies' potential to uncover disease causes and treatments. The Psychiatric Genomics Consortium provides guidance on analyzing diverse data, highlighting opportunities, challenges, and solutions.
Researchers used fruit flies to study the genetic mechanisms behind ADHD and identified areas of the genome that influence response to treatment. This discovery has significant implications for the development of personalized medicine, enabling tailored treatments based on individual genetic profiles.
A new project aims to investigate the genetic influences on behaviors, producing polygenic risk scores for individualized interventions. However, experts express concerns about the risks of misusing this research to justify social inequality.
Researchers discovered a genetic mechanism that promotes cocaine craving during prolonged abstinence, increasing the likelihood of relapse. The study found that gene expression changes in response to chromatin remodeler INO80 and E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM3, facilitating drug-craving behavior.
A new study identifies a clear biological basis for PTSD, finding that genetics accounts for between five and 20 percent of the variability in PTSD risk following a traumatic event. The study also found significant overlap with other mental disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and neuroticism.
Researchers have identified a new neurodevelopmental syndrome caused by mutations in the NKAP gene, leading to developmental delay, intellectual disability, behavioral abnormalities, and musculoskeletal problems. The condition affects only males and is characterized by Marfanoid traits and cognitive impairment.
A new UCL-led study found that some genes predicting high cholesterol don't apply to people from Uganda as they do in European populations. The researchers investigated genetic variants affecting blood fat levels and found that only 10% of markers were implicated in cardiovascular risk factors among Ugandan participants.
Researchers at UCSF found that tailoring instruction to individual birds' genetic predispositions can improve their learning abilities. In contrast, standardized tutoring programs failed to engage birds from families with different song tempo preferences.
A recent study by Kyoto University found that acute cerebellar inflammation causes 'depression-like' behavior in rats, characterized by decreased motivation and sociability. The research team discovered that microglia activation led to increased neuronal firing, causing the cerebellum to become hyperexcited.
A comprehensive study from Uppsala University found that deep belly fat is a major risk factor for developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease in women. The researchers developed a simpler method to estimate visceral fat content, which may be useful for healthcare.
A recent genome-wide association study involving over 470,000 participants found no meaningful link between genetic variants and same-sex sexual behavior. Instead, thousands of genetic variants with small effects contribute to individual differences in predisposition to the trait.
A 'Dream Team' of scientists has received a grant to develop powerful tools for manipulating genes in the blind Mexican cavefish, a model system for studying human diseases. The project aims to create precise gene expression and function through genomic tools commonly used in other fish models.
Researchers identified a second gene associated with natural short sleep, ADRB1, which promotes wakefulness and regulates sleep. The study suggests that short sleepers experience better sleep quality and sleep efficiency, despite potential health risks.
The NIH has awarded $4.6 million to Color to establish a nationwide genetic counseling resource as part of the All of Us Research Program. Participants will receive personalized interpretation and guidance on genomic testing results, ancestry, and risk factors for specific diseases.
Researchers use machine learning to analyze mouse behavior while foraging for food, identifying 71 reproduceable behavioral sequences as the underlying building blocks for more complex behavior patterns. The study reveals genetic influence over behavior and provides a new approach to understanding complex behaviors in humans.
The study confirms the importance of fish larvae produced in no-take zones for the health of fish populations within nearby fishing zones. The accuracy of the model was tested with field data, validating its predictions and providing valuable insights for reef managers.
A study of over 165,000 US military veterans has identified multiple genetic locations associated with the risk of re-experiencing traumatic memories, a hallmark symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder. The research also found genetic overlap with conditions such as hypertension and psychiatric disorders.
A genome-wide association study found specific genetic links to re-experiencing trauma symptoms in US veterans with PTSD, highlighting the role of brain cells in stress response. The study identified eight distinct genetic regions associated with PTSD vulnerability, providing potential targets for drug treatments.
Researchers have discovered a brain protein mutation associated with autism that alters behavior in mice, mimicking human autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The study suggests a potential mechanism underlying some of the altered behaviors observed in ASD.
A survey of 93 people with 3q29 deletion syndrome reveals a distinct pattern of social disability and anxiety, even without an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. The study indicates a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder at a similar level to schizophrenia, particularly for females.
A new study found that living a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of dementia for individuals with a high genetic risk. The research, published in JAMA, analyzed data from over 196,000 adults and discovered that adhering to a healthy lifestyle, regardless of genetic risk, was associated with a reduced risk of dementia.
A study found that women tend to procrastinate due to a genetic predisposition towards high dopamine levels, which affects brain regions involved in decision-making and impulse control. This trait is not observed in men, who show no correlation between the tyrosine hydroxylase gene and action control.
A University of Otago-led study has discovered the genetic mechanisms behind sex change in fish, revealing a complete rewiring of the gonad and changes in cellular memory. The research has implications for understanding human sex development and potential applications in tissue engineering and aquaculture.
Researchers discovered that specific genes are turned off and on in the brain and gonad to facilitate sex change, a process linked to cellular memory and epigenetic reprogramming. The study sheds light on how environmental factors influence gene expression in animals, including humans.
A new special report by The Hastings Center examines the psychosocial impacts of genetic information, highlighting both potential harms and limitations. Studies suggest that genetic testing can have negative effects on individuals and families, particularly in contexts where stigmatization or anxiety is heightened.
A study found that plant volatile organic compounds like linalool influence insect behavior in complex environments, with varying effects depending on the genetic background of the plants. The research suggests that context plays a crucial role in understanding chemical signals in nature.
A study published in Behavioural Processes found that wolf spider's display of courtship behavior can make them an easy target for birds. Females prioritize males with symmetrical tufts on their forelegs and robust leg fur, which indicate overall health and immune competence.
Researchers discovered that behavioral traits are highly heritable, explaining differences between breeds. The study analyzed data from over 6,000 cats representing three breeds: Maine Coon, Ragdoll, and Turkish Van.
A recent study surveyed over 1,000 consumers who downloaded their raw genetic data from services like 23andMe or AncestryDNA. Most used third-party apps like Promethease or GEDmatch for both health interpretations and genealogical research.
Researchers at MIT and China create macaque monkeys with Shank3 gene mutation linked to autism, exhibiting behavioral traits similar to those seen in humans. The new model aims to study treatment options and potentially develop better medicines for severe neurodevelopmental disorders.
Researchers identified a panel of genetic markers that reliably predict which animals are most vulnerable to chronic wasting disease in Northeastern deer. The study found that deer with the more susceptible genotypes are in the majority, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region where an outbreak is occurring.
A genome-wide association study has identified five new genetic risk loci for harmful alcohol use, confirming one previously identified locus. The study provides insight into the role of genetics in this behavior and highlights the importance of habitual alcohol use on various health and behavioral traits.
A study by Clemson University Center for Human Genetics reveals that there is extensive genetic variation in the propensity to consume cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as change in this behavior over time. The research uses Drosophila melanogaster fruit flies to assess naturally occurring variation in drug self-administration and f...
A study of human brains found that gene activity in specific cells is associated with autism severity, targeting potential treatments. Researchers identified a common set of circuit changes in neurons and glial cells, which were closely correlated with behavioral symptoms.
A study found that mice infected with Zika virus during late gestation exhibited behaviors similar to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Children exposed to the virus during the 2015-16 epidemic may be at increased risk for developmental disorders, including ADHD and brain abnormalities.
A new study published in JNeurosci finds that mice lacking the gene Shank3 display structural and functional deficits in the prefrontal cortex. These findings establish a role of Shank3 in maintaining prefrontal cortex connectivity, which may increase autism risk when disrupted.
Researchers discovered a new gene mutation that reduces fear and anxiety and increases social interaction in mice, according to a study published in Neuropharmacology. The P4h-tm knockout mice showed striking courage and a lack of learned helplessness compared to control mice.
Researchers have discovered a new genetic defect that causes intellectual disability, affecting around 3% of the global population. The newly identified gene target will help improve screening programmes and aid in accurate diagnoses worldwide.
A new study found that college students' perception of how much their peers are drinking is a key predictor of whether they will increase their alcohol use. The study examined genetic risk, roommates' drinking habits, and peer perceptions to find that the most influential factor was students' perception of peer drinking habits.
A new study published in the Journal of Hepatology reports that whole-exome sequencing (WES) can diagnose the genetic cause of liver disease in a significant proportion of adult patients. The analysis identified four monogenic disorders in five unrelated adults, enabling new treatment options and shedding light on underlying molecular ...
A study published in Nature Communications has found 47 links between the genetic code and sleep quality, quantity, and timing. The research team identified a gene called PDE11A as affecting not only sleep duration but also quality, with variants impacting sleep measures.
A new University of Colorado Boulder study found that the 18 most highly-studied candidate genes for depression are no more associated with it than randomly chosen genes. The research suggests that depression is influenced by many variants, each having a miniscule effect, and challenges previous 'candidate gene hypotheses',
The study identifies 30 genes associated with schizophrenia, revealing their impact on brain structure and function. These findings could lead to new drug targets for the treatment of the disease.
A study on Myxococcus xanthus reveals diverse social behaviors among cooperative bacteria, contradicting the assumption that groups are genetically homogeneous. The researchers attribute this diversity to evolutionary selection favoring specific 'social genes' that control behavior.
A genetic study confirms a small-scale migration of modern humans from southern Africa to eastern Africa around 65,000 years ago. This event likely transmitted cultural advancements and contributed to the greatest diaspora in human history.
Researchers at Kanazawa University developed a method to visualize and manipulate neural circuits in insects, shedding light on the generation of innate behaviors. The study found that a specific neural cluster plays a crucial role in regulating motivation during courtship behavior.
Researchers found a link between genetic similarity and parenting in shaping virtuous character traits, including responsibility and conscientiousness. The study used data from 720 pairs of siblings to analyze the relationship between genetics and environment.
A study of 2,700 patients with ADHD found that variations in the LPHN3 gene increased the risk of nicotine dependence by 40%. The findings suggest a link between ADHD and addictive substance use, highlighting the need for new genetic tools to prevent addictive behaviors in people with ADHD.
Researchers developed a powerful new tool to investigate brain development, memory, and learning, and the role of gene regulation in neuropsychiatric diseases. The tool selectively and robustly turns on genes in neurons, allowing for controlled expression of individual or multiple genes.
Researchers expand the genetic alphabet from four to eight letters, demonstrating a double increase in information density. The new DNA and RNA-like systems may be useful for future synthetic biological applications, including larger molecular structures.
A recent study by Forschungsverbund Berlin found that fish with a high level of familiarity are more aggressive towards each other. The researchers used the Amazon molly, a naturally clonal fish species, to isolate the effects of familiarity on behavior.