Genetics of brain development and malformation syndromes
1Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0624, USA.
Abstract:
The identification of the specific genes responsible for several childhood neurologic disorders has provided a framework with which to understand key development stages in human brain development. Common genetic disorders of brain development include septo-optic dysplasia, schizencephaly, holoprosencephaly, periventricular heterotopia, lissencephaly, and Joubert syndrome. For each of these disorders, a critical step in brain development is interrupted. The identification of the responsible genes is providing scientists a window into the key modulators of brain development, and providing clinicians the opportunity to offer genetic testing to individual patients and their families.
Related Concept Videos
Human Genetics
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin studies.
Genomic Imprinting and Inheritance
The expression of some genes depends on which parent passed the gene to the offspring, through a phenomenon known as...
Neurulation
Teratogenicity
Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...

