Gene variant linked to reduced empathy affects brain connectivity
Researchers analyzing 30,000 people found that a genetic variation in the oxytocin gene weakens connections between brain regions associated with social understanding and decision-making. The finding could help employers, schools, and healthcare systems better understand neurodevelopmental differences and tailor interventions accordingly.
Originaltitel: Oxytocin pathway gene variation and corticostriatal resting-state functional connectivity
<p>Genetic variations in single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within oxytocin pathway genes have been linked to social behavior and neurodevelopmental conditions. However, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these associations remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the relationship between variations of 10 SNPs in oxytocin pathway genes and resting-state functional connectivity among 55 independent components using a large sample from the UK Biobank (N approximate to 30,000). Our findings revealed that individuals with the GG genotype at rs4813627 within the oxytocin structural gene (OXT) OXT ) exhibited weaker resting-state functional connectivity in the corticostriatal circuit compared to those with the GA/AA genotypes. Empirical evidence has linked the GG genotype at OXT rs4813627 with a behavioral tendency of insensitivity to others. These results inform the neural mechanisms by which oxytocin-related genetic factors can influence social behavior.</p>