Genetic and Environmental Factors in Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders
2007

Genetic and Environmental Factors in Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): van Loo K.M.J, Martens G.J.M

Primary Institution: Radboud University Nijmegen

Hypothesis

Complex neurodevelopmental disorders are thought to result from an interaction between genetic and environmental factors.

Conclusion

The study summarizes the current knowledge of genetic contributions to complex neurodevelopmental disorders and discusses the interaction of genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors in their aetiology.

Supporting Evidence

  • Complex neurodevelopmental disorders include schizophrenia, autism, and ADHD.
  • Genetic factors can exceed an estimated heritability of 90% in disorders like autism.
  • Environmental factors such as maternal nutrition and stress can influence the development of these disorders.

Takeaway

Some brain disorders are caused by a mix of genes and things around us, like our environment. Scientists are trying to figure out how these factors work together.

Methodology

The review summarizes findings from association studies and linkage analyses regarding genetic contributions to neurodevelopmental disorders.

Potential Biases

Publication bias may affect the reporting of positive associations in genetic studies.

Limitations

The study notes that many genetic studies have produced inconsistent and controversial findings.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.2174/138920207783591717

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