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genetics

MicroRNAs as Blood-Based Biomarkers for Early ADHD Diagnosis in Children

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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While highly heritable, the heterogeneity of clinical presentation suggests complex interactions between genetic and environmental risk factors. A new study suggests that it may be possible to diagnose ADHD or detect ADHD susceptibility risk in children …

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Gene Editing (CRISPR) for Alzheimers Disease Treatment

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Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease and the most common form of dementia. Research is ongoing to better understand AD pathogenesis and explore potential treatments. Genome editing tools like CRISPR/Cas9 offer new approaches to study and potentially treat AD. Key Facts: AD pathogenesis likely involves multiple genetic and environmental factors Gene mutations linked …

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Depression Linked to 12 Gastrointestinal Diseases in Genetic Analysis Study

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A new study published in Translational Psychiatry found evidence that genetic predisposition to depression is associated with increased risks of 12 different gastrointestinal diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, ulcerative colitis, and more. The study helps establish a causal relationship between depression and gastrointestinal disease risk while minimizing confounding …

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Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling Disorder): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

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Trichotillomania is psychiatrically classified as subtype of obsessive compulsive disorder characterized chiefly by the urge to pull out one’s own hair.  The condition, also known as “hair pulling disorder,” affects upwards of 2.5 million individuals in the United States at some point during their lives.  Onset of trichotillomania occurs most frequently between 9 and 13 …

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Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

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Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is regarded as a subtype of impulse control disorder characterized by impulsive, uncontrollable explosive outbursts of anger, aggression, and/or rage – sometimes accompanied by violence.  To be considered intermittent explosive disorder, the explosive outbursts of anger must be triggered in situations and/or conditions in which such anger is unjustified.  In other …

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How Long Does Caffeine Stay In Your System?

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Caffeine is considered a naturally occurring CNS stimulant and is classified as a methylxanthine drug.  Over 60 species of plants contain caffeine, most notably: coffee seeds (i.e. “beans”) and tea leaves.  It is estimated that 80% (4/5) adults in the United States consume caffeine on a daily basis, and 90% of people throughout the world …

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