In the past decade, neuroimaging studies revealed structural and functional components of cognitive function and neuropsychiatric disorders. Also, genetic research has identified genes associated with individual differences in performance and disease risk. Our current project aims at integrating structural neuroimaging and genetics into one line of research that investigates genetic determinants of brain structure as a basis for further disease-related research.

So far, we generated a database of over 1500 healthy subjects with both structural brain data (mri) and genetic data (saliva samples). Wholebrain analyses of local gray and white matter density were performed using voxel-based morphometry. These analyses, in conjunction with genotyping, reveal associations of genes with local brain tissue volume differences. This way, genebrain interactions of risk factors for psychiatric disorders can be investigated. For example, we showed a gene-dosage effect of Met alleles in the comt Val158Met genotype in the amygdala.

The database and methods developed in this study will be applicable to neuropsychiatric diseases with a complex genetic basis. Analyzing relevant genes and brain regions will allow investigation of brain-gene interactions specific to disease risks. Ultimately, including patients and adding other neuropsychological data into the database may integrate genetics and brain function into clinical neuroscience.