Abstract
Genetic research into common complex disorders is at a pivotal point. Whole genome association studies currently underway, hold great promise for the identification of novel genes and causal mechanisms over the next few years. There has already been tremendous progress from the application of quantitative genetic, informing us about the aetiological relationships between different components of complex phenotypes such as autism and addressing the links between neurodevelopmental disorders and common comorbidities. Molecular genetic studies targeting candidate genes have clearly identified some specific genetic risk factors. In the post-genomic era the focus of research is increasingly turning towards the neuronal and cognitive processes that mediate genetic influences on behaviour and the translation of new knowledge into clinical practice. The degree to which genetic and other biomarker information will impact directly on clinical practice through the identification of novel drug targets and improved targeting of both medical and non-medical interventions remains unknown. However, genetic research is already having a major impact on the way that we conceptualise neurodevelopmental disorders and their links to frequently occurring comorbid symptoms and traits. The ease with which modern genotyping methods can be applied means that genetic information can be incorporated into almost any study design and promises rapid developments in our understanding of the complex interactions between genes and environment and their impact on child psychiatric disorders.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Biological Child Psychiatry |
| Subtitle of host publication | Recent Trends and Developments |
| Editors | T Banaschewski, L A Rohde |
| Publisher | Karger |
| Pages | 181-194 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Volume | 24 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 978-3-8055-8483-8 |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-3-8055-8482-1 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2008 |