Differential susceptibility to plasticity: a `missing link' between gene-culture co-evolution and neuropsychiatric spectrum disorders?

Wurzman, Rachel and Giordano, James (2012): Differential susceptibility to plasticity: a `missing link' between gene-culture co-evolution and neuropsychiatric spectrum disorders? In: BMC Medicine 10:37

Abstract

Brune's proposal that erstwhile `vulnerability' genes need to be reconsidered as `plasticity' genes, given the potential for certain environments to yield increased positive function in the same domain as potential dysfunction, has implications for psychiatric nosology as well as a more dynamic understanding of the relationship between genes and culture. In addition to validating neuropsychiatric spectrum disorder nosologies by calling for similar methodological shifts in gene-environment-interaction studies, Brune's position elevates the importance of environmental contexts - inclusive of socio-cultural variables - as mechanisms that contribute to clinical presentation. We assert that when models of susceptibility to plasticity and neuropsychiatric spectrum disorders are concomitantly considered, a new line of inquiry emerges into the co-evolution and co-determination of sociocultural contexts and endophenotypes. This presents potentially unique opportunities, benefits, challenges, and responsibilities for research and practice in psychiatry.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Form of publication: Publisher's Version
• Faculties: Medicine
• Subjects: 600 Technology > 610 Medicine and health
• ISSN: 1741-7015
• Language: English