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Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Analysis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Published on: July 28, 2013
Genetics of microstructure of cerebral white matter using diffusion tensor imaging.
P Kochunov1, D C Glahn, J L Lancaster
1Research Imaging Center, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78284, USA. kochunov@uthscsa.edu
Neuroimage
|February 2, 2010
Summary
Genetic factors significantly influence white matter microstructure, particularly fractional anisotropy and radial diffusivity. These findings highlight the heritability of brain structure and its potential links to psychiatric disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Biomedical Imaging
Background:
- Intersubject variability in cerebral white matter (WM) microstructure is significant.
- Understanding the genetic basis of this variability is crucial for comprehending brain development and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the degree of genetic control over intersubject variability in cerebral white matter microstructure.
- To identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with WM microstructure traits.
Main Methods:
- Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to measure WM microstructure in 467 healthy individuals from extended families.
- Heritability, genetic correlation, and QTL analyses were performed on fractional anisotropy (FA), radial diffusivity (L( perpendicular)), and axial diffusivity (L( vertical line)).
Main Results:
- Significant heritability was found for FA (h(2)=0.52) and L( perpendicular) (h(2)=0.37), but not for L( vertical line).
- FA and L( perpendicular) shared 46% of their genetic variance, indicating shared genetic influences.
- QTL analysis identified potential genetic linkages on chromosomes 15q25 for FA and 3q27 for L( perpendicular).
Conclusions:
- Cerebral white matter microstructure is under strong genetic control.
- The identified genetic loci are near regions previously associated with major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Further research is needed to pinpoint specific genes influencing WM microstructure in both healthy individuals and those with brain disorders.
