Genes mediate the association between P3 amplitude and externalizing disorders
Brian M Hicks1, Edward Bernat, Steven M Malone
1Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA. hicksb@musc.edu
Psychophysiology
|January 24, 2007
Summary
Reduced P3 amplitude, a brainwave pattern, is genetically linked to externalizing disorders like conduct disorder and substance dependence in adolescent males. This finding highlights a biological vulnerability marker for these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Reduced P3 amplitude in electroencephalography (EEG) is associated with externalizing disorders.
- Externalizing disorders encompass conduct disorder, antisocial behavior, and substance dependence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic and environmental factors underlying the association between P3 amplitude and externalizing disorders.
- To determine if reduced P3 amplitude is a marker of shared genetic vulnerability to externalizing disorders.
Main Methods:
- Biometric modeling was employed on a large sample of adolescent male twins (N=1196).
- Externalizing vulnerability was assessed using a composite of conduct disorder, adult antisocial behavior, and substance dependence symptoms.
- The study utilized two independent age cohorts for internal replication.
Main Results:
- Genetic influences fully explained the link between reduced P3 amplitude and externalizing disorders.
- A significant genetic correlation (r(g)=-.22) was found between P3 amplitude and externalizing vulnerability.
- Findings were consistent across both age cohorts.
Conclusions:
- Reduced P3 amplitude serves as a biological marker for a general genetic vulnerability to externalizing disorders.
- The findings underscore the role of shared genetic factors in the neurobiological underpinnings of externalizing behaviors.
More Related Videos
11:31Rapid Fractionation and Isolation of Whole Blood Components in Samples Obtained from a Community-based Setting
Published on: November 30, 2015
13:08Measurement of Fronto-limbic Activity Using an Emotional Oddball Task in Children with Familial High Risk for Schizophrenia
Published on: December 2, 2015
Related Concept Videos
01:28Human Genetics
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
01:30Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition marked by significant mood fluctuations, including episodes of mania and depression. Elevated energy levels, heightened mood or irritability, impulsive behavior, reduced sleep needs, rapid speech, racing thoughts, inflated self-esteem, and distractibility characterize mania. Individuals with bipolar disorder often alternate between depressive and manic states, with periods of emotional stability lasting an average of six months to a year.
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
01:28Causes of Social Behavior III: Biological and Environmental Influences
Social behavior is a complex phenomenon that arises from the interaction between biological predispositions and environmental influences. This intricate interplay shapes how individuals think, feel, and act in various social contexts. Understanding these mechanisms requires insights from psychology, neuroscience, genetics, and evolutionary theory.Environmental Influences on Social BehaviorEnvironmental factors, including temperature, odors, and visual stimuli, play a crucial role in shaping...