Working memory performance is significantly influenced by genetic factors. Here, we assessed genetic contributions to both working memory performance and neuroimaging measures focused on the network of brain regions associated with working memory by using a sample of 467 human participants from extended families. Imaging measures included diffusion tensor imaging indices in major white matter tracts thought to be associated with working memory and structural magnetic resonance imaging measures of frontal and parietal gray matter density. Analyses directly addressed whether working memory performance and neural structural integrity are influenced by common genetic factors (e.g., pleiotropy). While all cognitive measures, gray matter regions, and white matter tracts assessed were heritable, only performance on a spatial delayed response task and integrity of the superior longitudinal fasciculus (a primary fronto-parietal connection) shared genetic factors. As working memory may be a core component of other higher level processes, such as general intelligence, this finding has implications for the heritability of complex cognitive functions, as well as for our understanding of the transmission of cognitive deficits in mental and neurological disorders.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
---|---|
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2894480 | PMC |
http://dx.doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0359-10.2010 | DOI Listing |
J Transl Med
January 2025
Research Unit NeuroBiology of Diabetes, Helmholtz Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany.
Background: Obese subjects undergoing weight loss often fear the Yoyo dieting effect, which involves regaining or even surpassing their initial weight. To date, our understanding of such long-term obesity and weight cycling effects is still limited and often based on only short-term murine weight gain and loss studies. This study aimed to investigate the long-term impacts of weight cycling on glycemic control and metabolic health, focusing on adipose tissue, liver, and hypothalamus.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFImmun Ageing
January 2025
Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University, 460 Medical Center Drive, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
Background: Obesity and metabolic syndrome are major public health concerns linked to cognitive decline with aging. Prior work from our lab has demonstrated that short-term high fat diet (HFD) rapidly impairs memory function via a neuroinflammatory mechanism. However, the degree to which these rapid inflammatory changes are unique to the brain is unknown.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSchizophrenia (Heidelb)
January 2025
Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy.
The present study aimed to investigate the causal relationships among cognitive impairment, psychopathology, and real-life functioning in a large sample of people with schizophrenia, using a data-driven causal discovery procedure based on partial ancestral graphs (PAGs). This method may provide additional insights for the identification of potential therapeutic targets to promote recovery in people with chronic schizophrenia. State-of-the-art instruments were used to assess the study variables.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFJ Med Internet Res
December 2024
University Clinic for Interdisciplinary Orthopedic Pathways (UCOP), Elective Surgery Center, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark.
Background: Access to clear and comprehensible health information is crucial for patient empowerment, leading to improved self-care, adherence to treatment plans, and overall health outcomes. Traditional methods of information delivery, such as written documents and oral communication, often result in poor memorization and comprehension. Recent innovations, such as animation videos, have shown promise in enhancing patient understanding, but comprehensive investigations into their effectiveness across various health care settings are lacking.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPLoS One
January 2025
Department of Sport Studies, Faculty of Education Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.
Introduction: Mental fatigue, a psychobiological state induced by prolonged and sustained cognitive tasks, impairs both cognitive and physical performance. Several studies have investigated strategies to counteract mental fatigue. However, potential health risks and contextual restrictions often limit these strategies, which hinder their practical application.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFEnter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!