Unveiling the Genetic Blueprint of Brain Structure and Disorders

The largest genetic study of brain structure, involving 36,000 brain scans, has identified over 4,000 genetic variants linked to brain structure. Researchers from the University of Cambridge analyzed MRI scans from adults and children, measuring properties of the cortex and linking them to genetic information. The study found that different sets of genes contribute to the size and folding of the cortex. The findings provide insights into how changes in brain shape and size can lead to neurological and psychiatric conditions, potentially improving treatment and support for affected individuals.