gwas

Sleep Patterns vs. Risk of Psychiatric Disorders: Depression, Schizophrenia, ADHD (2024 Study)

by

Insomnia and daytime napping are causally associated with an increased risk of major depressive disorder (MDD), while sleep duration influences the risk of schizophrenia and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Highlights: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Insomnia and napping during the day significantly increase the risk of MDD. Schizophrenia: Longer sleep duration is associated with a higher risk …

Read more

Shared Genes & Biological Pathways in Depression & Alzheimer’s Disease (2024 Study)

by

A study found shared brain-specific mechanisms between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and depression, particularly involving synaptic signaling and immune system pathways in the hippocampus, but no direct genetic overlap. Highlights: Six brain-specific eQTL genes (SRA1, MICA, PCDHA7, PCDHA8, PCDHA10, PCDHA13) are shared between AD and depression. Pathway analysis identified shared biological pathways, including synaptic signaling, myelination, …

Read more

PCSK9 Inhibitors May Increase Parkinson’s Disease & Reduce ALS Risk (2024 Study)

by

PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduce the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) but increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Highlights: ALS Risk Reduction: PCSK9 inhibitors marginally reduced the risk of ALS with an odds ratio of 0.89 (p = 0.048). PD Risk Increase: PCSK9 inhibitors increased the risk of Parkinson’s disease, with an odds ratio …

Read more

Polygenic Scores May Improve Accuracy of ADHD Diagnosis when Combined with Standard Diagnostic Scales (2024 Study)

by

The ADHD polygenic score (PGS) adds slight yet statistically significant value to existing ADHD diagnostic tools, though it currently lacks clinical utility. Highlights: Study Overview: Researchers tested if adding a genetic score (ADHD PGS) to traditional diagnostic tools (ASRS and WURS scales) and family history could better predict ADHD. Improvement in Diagnosis: Adding the ADHD …

Read more

Depression Linked to Increased Risk of Knee Osteoarthritis (2024 Study)

by

TLDR: A study found a bidirectional causal relationship between depression and osteoarthritis (OA) but only a one-way relationship where depression increases the risk of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Highlights: Bidirectional Causality: There is a bidirectional causal relationship between depression and osteoarthritis (OA), meaning depression can increase the risk of OA and vice versa. Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA): …

Read more

Genetics & Intelligence (IQ): How DNA Shapes Cognition, Problem Solving, etc.

by

Our genes influence more than just our raw intelligence and problem-solving abilities. The latest discoveries in the genetics of intelligence are showing how our DNA shapes how we learn, our educational attainment, occupational success, and even our health outcomes. Genetic research is revealing the deep connections between inherited cognitive capacities and multiple aspects of life. …

Read more

Neurobiological Correlates of Human Intelligence (IQ): Genetics, Brain Regions, Cellular Structures

by

Human intelligence is a complex cognitive trait that has fascinated scientists and philosophers for centuries. New research is shedding light on the neurobiological underpinnings of intelligence, from genes to cells to brain networks. Key Facts: Intelligence is one of the most heritable human behavioral traits, with genetics explaining 50-80% of variability between individuals. Over 1000 …

Read more

Genetics Linked to Intelligence (IQ), Health, Longevity: Polygenic Scores

by

Intelligence predicts health and mortality – but why? New research reveals some genes are implicated in both. Key facts: Intelligence test scores predict mortality, illnesses, and health behaviors. Higher scores indicate lower risk. Both intelligence and health/disease outcomes are highly polygenic – many genetic variants of small effect contribute. Genetic correlations exist between intelligence and …

Read more

Genetics & Specific Cognitive Abilities: Highly Heritable (50%)

by

General intelligence, known as g or IQ, has long been the focus of cognitive genetics research. But what about more specific cognitive abilities, the building blocks that make up IQ? A sweeping new meta-analysis of over 740,000 twins surprisingly suggests: Specific cognitive abilities (SCA) like reading, math and processing speed are just as heritable as …

Read more

Neurobiology of Bipolar Disorder: Genetic & Brain Imaging Links

by

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a chronic mental illness characterized by dramatic shifts in mood and energy levels. It affects about 2-4% of the population worldwide. While we still don’t fully understand what causes bipolar disorder, research over the past couple decades has uncovered important clues into the biological mechanisms behind this …

Read more