Approved Research

Using multi-omics dataset to understand the mechanistic gene-environment interactions in underlying normal brain development and their potential variations in neuropsychiatric disorders.

Lay summary

The development of the brain is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of normal development and the deviation pattern of it in giving rise to potential diseases at the level of cell biology, genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors. To date, the association between gene-environment interaction and development of brain remains largely unexplored. In this study, by utilizing the multi-omics dataset provided in the UK Biobank, we first aim to investigate the development of brain structure and function with respect to aging in order to provide insightful perspectives concerning the underlying mechanisms that are reflective of normal brain aging. Second, we aim to explore the gene-environment interaction and its impact on structural and functional development of the human brain. Third, we aim to predict the occurrence and study the development of neuropsychiatric disorders based on the information on genes, environment, and brain structure and function, which will help pave the way in early detection of abnormal development for early intervention. We plan to use the whole dataset of the UK Biobank for 3 years. This research may yield important insights into normal brain development and aging processes, as well as the identification of development- and gene-environment-related neurological diseases and conditions. This knowledge can inform the proposals of potential interventions and treatments to promote healthy brain aging and improve outcomes for individuals across the lifespan.