NIMH Pages about Genetics

Publications about Genetics

Looking at My Genes: What Can They Tell Me?

A fact sheet containing frequently asked questions about genome scans and genetic testing.

Science News about Genetics

Five Major Mental Disorders Share Genetic Roots

Science Update • March 01, 2013

Five major mental disorders share some of the same genetic risk factors, the largest genome-wide study of its kind has found.

Differences in On/Off Switches Help Explain How the Human Brain Evolved

Science Update • February 19, 2013

A recent NIMH-funded study identified small regions of the genome that are uniquely regulated in human neurons, but not in primate neurons. The findings provide insight into human intellectual function and risk for human diseases, including autism and Alzheimer’s disease.

Different Genes, Same Risk Pathway in Schizophrenia

Science Update • January 02, 2013

Work by NIMH-supported scientists illustrates the variability of the genes and biology underlying illnesses like schizophrenia.

Gene Variants Implicated in Extreme Weight Gain Associated with Antipsychotics

Science Update • October 12, 2012

A small study suggests that people with certain genetic variants may be more susceptible to extreme weight gain if they take certain antipsychotic medications.

NIH Researchers Use Brain Imaging to Understand Genetic Link between Parkinson's and a Rare DiseaseExternal Link: Please review our disclaimer.

Science Update • July 30, 2012

A rare metabolic disorder is helping researchers at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) uncover new clues about the biology underlying Parkinson’s disease.

More Science News about Genetics

Posts about Genetics

Autism Progress

By Thomas Insel on December 26, 2012

Dr. Insel highlights key recent findings in research on autism spectrum disorders.

Summer Science

By Thomas Insel on August 24, 2012

Numerous provocative advances in neuroscience were reported during the summer of 2012.

The New Genetics of Autism – Why Environment Matters

By Thomas Insel on April 04, 2012

Dr. Insel discusses how new research may help tie together seemingly disparate findings in genetic vs environmental risk factors in autism spectrum disorders.

NIMH’s Top 10 Research Advances of 2011

By Thomas Insel on December 23, 2011

Dr. Insel shares NIMH’s Top 10 Research Advances for 2011.

Neuroscience Advances Showcased in Washington

By Thomas Insel on November 18, 2011

Dr. Insel reflects on an exciting neuroscience conference where an increasing interest in neuropsychiatric disorders was evident.

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