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/PMC2894480PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0359-10.2010DOI Listing

Publication Analysis

Top Keywords

working memory
28
memory performance
12
genetic factors
12
associated working
8
imaging measures
8
white matter
8
matter tracts
8
gray matter
8
working
7
memory
7

Similar Publications

Weight cycling exacerbates glucose intolerance and hepatic triglyceride storage in mice with a history of chronic high fat diet exposure.

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 PDF

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 PDF

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 PDF

The Effectiveness of Video Animations as a Tool to Improve Health Information Recall for Patients: Systematic Review.

J 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 PDF

Does music counteract mental fatigue? A systematic review.

PLoS 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 PDF

Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?

Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!