Attentional phenotypes for the analysis of higher mental function.

John Fossella, Michael I. Posner, Jin Fan, James M. Swanson, Donald W. Pfaff

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

59 Scopus citations

Abstract

We outline a strategy to relate normal cognitive processes to candidate genes. First, brain imaging is used to specify a cognitive process "attention" in terms of the neural networks involved. Next, evidence is presented showing that the operation of each network involves a dominant neuromodulator. Then we discuss development of a task designed to measure the efficiency of each network in normal individuals and consider evidence on the independence, reliability, and heritability of the networks. DNA from cheek swabs of subjects who performed the task are then used to examine candidate polymorphisms in genes related to the transmitters. We then examine the ability of these candidate alleles to predict the efficiency of relevant networks. This process has demonstrated that candidate genes are related to specific networks of attention to a greater degree than to overall performance as measured by reaction time and accuracy. These findings require replication and possible extension to other cognitive processes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)217-223
Number of pages7
JournalThe Scientific World Journal
Volume2
DOIs
StatePublished - 24 Jan 2002
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Attentional phenotypes for the analysis of higher mental function.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this