Common variants contribute to intrinsic human brain functional networks

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Functional brain networks are crucial for cognition and clinical outcomes.
• The genetic underpinnings of intrinsic brain activity remain largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify common genetic variants that influence intrinsic brain activity.
• To understand the genetic architecture of brain functional networks.

Main Methods:

• Utilized resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from 47,276 individuals.
• Performed genome-wide association studies to discover and validate genetic variants.
• Analyzed colocalization and genetic correlations with brain disorders.

Main Results:

• Identified 45 novel genetic regions associated with brain functional signatures (P < 2.8 × 10⁻¹¹).
• Found associations with key networks like the central executive, default mode, and salience networks.
• Observed colocalization of genetic loci with disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (APOE ε4).
• Demonstrated genetic correlations between brain function variation and major depressive disorder and schizophrenia.

Conclusions:

• This study advances the understanding of the genetic basis of brain functional networks.
• Highlights the genetic links between intrinsic brain activity and complex brain disorders.