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The genetic architecture of language functional connectivity
Yasmina Mekki1, Vincent Guillemot2, Hervé Lemaître3
1NeuroSpin, Institut Joliot, CEA - Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-Sur-Yvette 91191, France.
Neuroimage
|December 20, 2021
Summary
This study used multivariate genome-wide association studies in over 32,000 individuals to explore the genetic basis of brain language networks. It identified 20 genomic loci associated with resting-state functional connectivity in language areas, offering new insights into language neurobiology.
Area of Science:
- Neurogenetics
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Human Genetics
Background:
- The genetic architecture of human language remains largely unknown, with previous studies limited by small sample sizes and power.
- Neuroimaging, particularly resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI), offers a way to study language networks in large populations.
- Large-scale cohorts like the UK Biobank enable the investigation of genetic influences on brain function related to language.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform a multivariate genome-wide association study (mvGWAS) on genetic variations and resting-state functional connectivity (FC) in brain language areas.
- To identify genetic loci associated with the functional connectivity of semantic and perceptual-motor language networks.
- To uncover novel genetic insights into the neurobiology of human language.
Main Methods:
- A multivariate genome-wide association study (mvGWAS) was conducted on 32,186 UK Biobank participants.
- Genetic variations were analyzed against resting-state functional connectivity (FC) of classical brain language areas.
- Analysis focused on inferior frontal, temporal, and inferior parietal lobes, including specific regions like pars opercularis, triangularis, orbitalis, angular, and supramarginal gyri.
Main Results:
- Twenty genomic loci were identified as associated with language-related functional connectivity (FC).
- Three of these loci were successfully replicated in an independent sample.
- A locus at 3p11.1 (regulating EPHA3) was linked to semantic language network FC, and a locus at 15q14 (regulating THBS1) was linked to perceptual-motor language processing FC.
Conclusions:
- This study reveals significant genetic associations with functional connectivity in brain language networks.
- Identified loci provide novel insights into the genetic underpinnings of language processing, including semantic and perceptual-motor components.
- The findings contribute to understanding the complex genetic architecture of human language.
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