Study maps 315 genes tied to brain network connections
Researchers identified 114 independent SNPs linked to functional connectivity in the brain, according to a multivariate genome-wide association study published in Nature Communications. The analysis pointed to 315 candidate genes. The team used UK Biobank data and found substantial genetic overlap in connectivity across different brain networks. They also identified network-specific signals that suggest genetic stratification between cognitive and sensory-motor systems. A large genetic overlap emerged between functional connectivity and risk for neuropsychiatric disorders.
The findings point to targets for research into how genetic variation affects neuronal communication and psychiatric risk. Genome regions important for neuronal communication carry more neuropsychiatric risk SNPs.
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