Presentations

Abstract

Rightward frontal and leftward occipital asymmetries in human brain (i.e., brain torque) have been consistently reported in postmortem and in vivo neuroimaging studies. Alterations of these asymmetries may be involved in human disorders including stuttering and depression. However, little is known about the genetic determinants of these asymmetries. In the present study, we aimed to explore the genetic basis of frontal and occipital asymmetries by combining a large sample of MRI images (N = 2326) and a high-resolution gene expression database (Allen Human Brain Atlas, AHBA).

Abstract

Combining approaches at multiple scales, including gene, protein, brain and behavior, would provide a comprehensive picture of brain functions and individual differences. In this project, we will focus on the human language system, combining post mortem analysis of the transcriptome with genotyping in large datasets, functional mapping, and behavioral tasks, as well as receptor mapping via collaboration with Human Brain Project (HBP) investigators.

Abstract

Dyslexia or reading disability is a neurodevelopmental condition with a relatively high prevalence in the population (5 - 10% depending on diagnostic criteria). Typically, reading assessment and diagnosis is focused on children, who are categorized as dyslexic if they have reading difficulties that cannot be explained by other factors such as low IQ or other neurological disorders. Although dyslexia can become milder in adulthood, people often retain lifelong difficulties with reading that may affect training, employment and life choices. Dyslexia usually has a complex and multifactorial background that includes genetic contributions. Some unusual families may have relatively rare forms of the disorder that are caused by single genetic mutations with strong effects on reading ability. Here we have focused on extended families with multiple affected members, which may have these kinds of genetic subforms of the disorder. Word and nonword reading fluency measures have been taken for all family members available. We have evaluated these continuous traits across the generations in order to best discriminate affected from unaffected members. We also propose a genetic strategy focused on sequencing the genomes of key members in order to identify possible risk variants. Genes that are found through this approach may be particularly crucial for the development of normal reading and language skills.