Abstracts of the IBANGS Genes, Brain and Behavior Meeting May 11-14, 2011 Rome, Italy
Abstract
Akil et al. (2010, Science) have identified the integration of genomics and neural circuits as the future of psychiatric research.'Integrating the tools of genomics and neural science is needed to reveal causes of psychiatric illness and to suggest new strategies for treatment and prevention'.Psychiatric illnesses such a schizophrenia, autism and mood disorders appear to arise from abnormal development of neural circuits.Gross anatomical malformations and their associated mental deficits usually become evident in the first few years of life, if not before.But subtle changes, such as slight changes in neuronal positioning or the ratios of different cell types or the strength of their connections are less easy to identify and they are likely to contribute to, if not cause, diverse forms of mental illness.Understanding the interactions between the susceptibility genes and the environmental influences in these diseases is the current challenge of developmental neurobiology.Neurogenesis, neuronal migration and differentiation are conducted with an unfolding genetic program that can be altered or interrupted by environmental influences.Building the brain is like a house of cards.The early connections provide the foundation of the adult structure, and disruption of these may be the source of many developmental flaws.Cerebral cortical developmental disorders (including schizophrenia and autism) and perinatal injuries involve cortical neurons with early connectivity, and the major…
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